The more the merrier! We could set up in a triangle and call it "The Very Strange Array." ---------- Original Message ---------- From: Jay Eads <jayleads@gmail.com> To: "Utah-Astronomy" <utah-astronomy@mailman.xmission.com> Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] Tonight at SPOC Date: Sat, 17 Oct 2009 15:36:45 -0600 Cool, I'll go to the open house and set up a little bit away. I'll also probably bring a couple of my light shields to block the light from the road which can ruin my dark adaptation (seems to happen when I use the site for a private session). Outside of the Sheriff who I've met every time I have used SPOC on my own, any problem being there late (2:00a.m. or more?) at an open house?. And oh, don't laugh at the little XT10 I'm using compared to the wonderful refractors that you have, as recently sold my large truss dob because I want something that I can set up on my own, not hurt my back (bad L5/S1 disc) but gives me the aperture I'm wanting. I thinking of a 12.5 Discovery or a 12.5 Obsession (and I want a Dob) but 12.5 from the 10 I am using now just doesn't seem a big enough jump. I've used a 18 inch truss but that was too big. The 15 I just sold 2 weeks ago required some TLC but it was older and also very heavy in the mirror box, and though about 6 feet I had to use a step stool to see in that one. I want one I can use my observing chair with and/or just stand an observe near Zenith, and I think an Obsession will do that. I'm willing to spend around $3000 to $40000 though I have to buy a car for my kids to drive around in first. I also am willing to wait and save as I pay cash for the items I buy for the hobby. I would like this to be my "last dob" that I buy; though at sometime I need to get a grab and go refractor. I've almost decided to just keep tweaking the XT10 for a year (I've ordered a new focuser, new tension system etc) and take a look around at what people have. Oh, I'm not worried about selling the XT10 in the end cause it will just be used by my older students in my astronomy program. I'm going after a bunch of galaxies in Pegasus and have seen some there before so that will work. Thanks Steve, I'll see you and Bill there. I look forward to seeing in person what you pack in a small car . . . Jay . On 2009-10-17 20:07, Steve FISHER wrote:

Jay:

I have recently joined Utah Astronomy and received your post. Bill

Cowels and I have been to SPOC with our own telescopes several times during open houses and have enjoyed ourselves a great deal. Those working in the refractor house tonight would welcome you with your equipment I'm sure.

Bill and I will be out tonight as we were several times late last

year. We had some great nights and it was nice to use the facilities without being "overrun" with the public.

If not keep us posted and we will let you know how our night went.

Steve

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