Thank you, Stevie, for your infiltration.
This may come as a surprise to you. My wife Valerie and I have booked a hotel north of Belfast during the 2nd week in August. We would like to spend one night observing the Perseids. I see by your NIAAS website that you have gone to the Killylane reservoir to see the meteors. Are you considering doing so again this year?
There has been talk of an observing session and barbecue for the Perseids Aubrey, but, most of the hardcore observers will actually be in Kerry for the Skelligs star party. I have to say we have not had much luck in recent years, mainly due to the usual cloudy conditions.
But feel free to keep your eye on the forum nearer the time, and you will both be more than welcome to come along.
Right now, I have the scope set up in the backyard on Thursday 2nd July. I have already spotted Venus and Jupiter. Both are clearly visible in both my guidescope at 11X and in the main scope at 40X. I do have 2 inch eyepieces fitted. They are less than 1 degree apart. At present, we have clear skies over Dublin. The winds are dying down too.
Just observed the pair with my binos, it's remarkable how quickly Jupiter is whizzing past Venus, kind of reminds me of New Horizons, a big build up and then it's over so quick.
Paul
Programming today is a race between software engineers striving to build bigger and better programs, and the universe trying to produce bigger and better idiots. So far, the universe is winning.
Rich Cook
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Or is it the other way around, Paul -Venus whizzing past Jupiter?
Nice sight though. Venus is a seriously nice crescent. It is heading in a easterly direction towards Regulus.
When you're up this way Aubrey, don't forget to pop in our Perseid Barbeque which is likely to be at Delamont Country Park near Killyleagh, SE of Belfast - we're keeping the date a little flexible so as to go for the best weather. It's always a jolly gathering, Terry, myself and probably a few others you know will be there. Keep an eye on our website irishastro.org for details.
  