At first glance, the title seems contradictory ;-). Here's some background. I've been having lots of fun from my previous home backyard country sky observing many DSOs with passion. I was addicted to DSOs. It was great to not have to astro-commute (though dark skies when I get further out is pure heavenly). After moving back to the city and trying a few DSOs (both with my 4-inch TV-102 Light Cup and my 8-inch Newt), it was well, disappointing. Objects that used to look great, now look sort of bland, except for M42 ;-). The only other choices are: double stars/variables or astro-commuting. So while bruting over my new predicament and feeling sorely dejected, fate brought me to a whole new rejuvenation. Indeed, over two years ago when I was looking for a telescopes, the general advice was that there are only a handful of solar systems objects to watch and tons of DSOs, especially when the planets aren't in sight.
I've just finished my new Moon book and have read several planetary observing books. While confiding what I've read with my Light Cup, here's what transpired.
Light Cup: "Well have I got a new gospel for you! Ready?"
Ron: "Go on, I'm half listening".
Light Cup: "There are 'deep sky objects' to be found right in the solar systems!"
Ron: "Yeah right [eyeball rolling]! You've got to do better than this."
Light Cup: "Let's examine the characteristics of visual DSOs:
- static (except for occasional supernova), nothing ever changed.
- faint and fuzzies
- what goes around comes around again every year ;-).
True new galaxies and other things are being discovered."
Ron: "True"
...continue to Part II
I've just finished my new Moon book and have read several planetary observing books. While confiding what I've read with my Light Cup, here's what transpired.
Light Cup: "Well have I got a new gospel for you! Ready?"
Ron: "Go on, I'm half listening".
Light Cup: "There are 'deep sky objects' to be found right in the solar systems!"
Ron: "Yeah right [eyeball rolling]! You've got to do better than this."
Light Cup: "Let's examine the characteristics of visual DSOs:
- static (except for occasional supernova), nothing ever changed.
- faint and fuzzies
- what goes around comes around again every year ;-).
True new galaxies and other things are being discovered."
Ron: "True"
...continue to Part II