I have been fascinated by the night sky since my very early childhood. Things became serious, however, after I read Guide To The Moon, by Patrick Moore, when I was eighteen. That was in 1980 and ever since then I have lived and breathed astronomy.
My first telescope was a 60mm Astral refractor. Using this little scope I would make basic drawings of Sunspots, and of the Moon and Planets. My favourite instrument back in those early years, however, was a pair of 60mm binoculars that I mounted on a home made wooden alt-azimuth fork and tripod. With these I would sweep the night sky, searching out the numerous star clusters, galaxies and nebulae that are within the range of such a humble yet amazingly useful little instrument. Comets were a particular favourite of mine. I would follow them as they moved across the background stars from night to night, and plot their positions in my Norton's Star Atlas.
My interest in the planets began in 1986 when I acquired my first serious telescope, a 102mm F13 Vixen refractor. With this telescope I could now view intricate detail on Jupiter, Saturn and Mars. I have always drawn what I see at the telescope and now have quite a record of observations spanning more than a quarter of a century. Over the years I have owned various telescopes. These include Schmidt and Mak Cassegrains, Newtonians and refractors. A few years ago I sold all my equipment so that I could buy my dream telescope, a Takahashi FS-128. This incredibly versatile 5" fluorite apochromatic refractor is now the only telescope I own, other than a pair of 15 by 70 Celestron binoculars. If I could have another instrument it would be a Takahashi Sky 90.
I am only 100% happy when observing the Moon and Planets, and 99% happy observing anything else. I am essentially a visual observer and I attempt to make at least one drawing during an observing session. Drawing what you see at the telescope certainly sharpens your observing skills. Detail that would otherwise be overlooked becomes evident, and you soon develop a very keen eye. Some may feel that they lack any artistic skill. Well, let me assure you that your artistic skills will improve dramatically over time, as will your observing ability.
Joining an SPA observing section is one of the best moves you could make. I have sent my observations to the Planetary Section for a good number of years and have received a great deal of encouragement and support. I also send observations to the Lunar Section and more recently to the Deep Sky Section.
The positive feedback received by section members, from their section director, as well as the advice and support they offer, certainly enhances the enjoyment of this fantastic hobby. So if you have ever thought of joining an SPA section, but feel your observations or images are not good enough, then put aside those doubts and write to the director of the section that appeals to you. You only stand to benefit, and will have no regrets.
