Observing Notesfrom the Tuckahoe IrregularsThe weather certainly did cooperate for a change. I, and my grandson, were at the Dune Overlook at Capehenlopen State Park at 4:45 am. $" refractor (with Herschel wedge) and 25x100 bino's (with Baader filters) were all set up and waiting for sunrise. The sun emerged in a mixture of low clouds and fog over the ocean, and first views were through the bin's with the filters removed. The size of the disc was amazing; I had expected it to be smaller after the DAS demo at Stargaze X. Views through both the telescope and binoculars were spectacular and I think I got some good pictures using the refractor at prime focus with a 2X Powermate. If they came out good I post some later. We got to share our experience with seven additional people who showed up. They all were thrilled by the views and greatful for the opportunity to see this event. One of the spectators was the publisher of the Cape Gazette, and if any of my pictures are worthwhile I will be sending them to him. All in all a great and unforgettable morning. C'mon 2012. I agree with Keith the sun is hard to find in a telescope at dawn, At my Sun Spotter was useless. Both my grandson and I thought we saw the "black drop". I will have to see if I captured it in pictures. Dave Wells |