Exploring Ursa Major

Ursa Major is by far the most prominent target from my backyard. I decided to have another look at the Mizar-Alcor double star. I had a little more success with higher magnifications this time and got a couple of nice views. This prompted me to attempt to take some pictures using A-focal photography. I had not success at all but I will keep trying.

Another obstacle that I had working against me was my neighbor. Last night he decided to open all his curtains and turn on all his lights. Then he went to his back yard and turned on all his exterior lights. Al Gore is going to be visiting him soon I think.

Despite all of this a pressed on and pointed by telescope at Dubhe. It was rather unremarkable but I was able to see another faint star in the field of view. My main goal for viewing this star was to use it as a launching point to try and find M81 and M82. Unfortunately I was unsuccessful at finding them. I think I was doomed to fail because of Mr. Brightlights and the fact that I did not have my binoculars to help me aim (My 4 year old has hidden them somewhere in our house).

I was able to get this picture of the Big Dipper and some trees. This weekend’s forecast is for clouds and rain so I may have to wait patiently to get out again.

Northern Lights

View Date : August 6, 2007

Time : 11:00PM – 12:00AM

I almost did not go out on this night. I was pretty tired and probably could have used the sleep. Against my better judgment I went out for a quick peek as the sky was temptingly cloudless. I did not bother to bring my telescope with me but the time a spent viewing was well worth it.

My first goal was to identify another constellation. It was Cassiopeia’s turn and it did not take me long. Its “W” shape was clearly visible to the North East. I tried taking a couple of free hand shots and the results turned out to be not so bad. It’s not spectacular but my work is getting better.

Just after I took this picture I tried to get one more shot. I thought I might be able to sit in the folding lawn chair on my deck to help steady myself. In the dark I did not see the pool of water that had collected on the chair from the recent rain. In an instant my shorts were cold and wet. I decided to call it quits and go dry off but I saw something to the North that I don’t often get to see (or take time to notice). The green glow of the Northern Lights had just started and caught my attention. I completely forgot about my soaking wet bottom and watched the show dance and flicker before me. I was able to have enough sense about me to take a couple of pictures that really capture what I saw. Enjoy.