Public Observing at Notchview - 12/8

A wintry scene greeted our return to Notchview for Arunah Hill's final 2007 public event. Thanks go out to Jim Caffrey, John Dziegiel, Colin Harrington and Pat Toomey for their efforts to publicize the event and prepare the site.

We set up as cross-country skiers were making their final runs of the day. Some were curious enough to stop by and talk astronomy. A couple of our visitors were quite knowledgeable about the night sky.

After a brief flurry, the evening settled in under a clear and steady sky. Several objects were observed including a still bright and interesting Comet Holmes, as well as a returning Comet Tuttle. The Visitor Center provided a shelter from the cold as we waited for Mars. Our vigil was rewarded when Mars rose high in the sky and it was a fitting final object for the night.

Notchview has all the attributes of a fine observing site. First and foremost, the Notchview staff is very receptive and accommodating to the needs of our event. The hilltown folks have an appreciation for the night sky and we enjoy sharing our views with them. The Visitor Center is an ideal hub for public observing, especially during the cold months. And, the remote and panoramic view from Bates Field has potential as a club event site.

Plans are underway to expand our activities at Notchview during 2008.

Happy holidays,

djc

Cold, Windy & Lonely Hill

The hill was very cold, very, very windy and very, very, very lonely for Saturday's work party. Arriving at 11:00 AM as advertised, I was the sole occupant of the windswept hill. After lighting a fire in the trusty woodstove, I waited for others to arrive. And waited. And waited. Finally, Pete came to cheer me up, and later, after Pete left, Barry, who intended to observe (clouds, maybe??). Anyhow, the woodstove works just fine, I brought up lots of paper for lighting it, There's enough wood outside to melt the snow inside, and all we need now is kindling. And Spring. The fly paper did its thing, and more flies have arrived to replace those who have gone to Never-Never land. Hi, Ed! Missed you!