We were blessed with mostly clear skies this week while we enjoyed the partial solar eclipse. We had set up several instruments for visitors to enjoy: The 16″ domed SCT, a Tak FSQ-106 on tracking mount, a TV 80mm refractor with Herschel Wedge and DSLR for images, and eclipse glasses for everyone. While not a total eclipse, like those watching from Spain, we still enjoyed every minute of the event, chatting about eclipses, astronomy, science and such. The refractors on the observing deck performed best, as they were not inside a hot, venting metal dome like the 16″ scope which suffered from the domes micro meteorological effects of hot air rising. Some sunspots added to the scene making for a pleasant view at all times.
