Pocket Sky-Atlas Challenges for November

The November Sky

Frost and dew: along with cold, they are our observing companions during these longer nights. While some can stand the cold better than others, most of us can bundle up enough to grab binoculars and steal some time under the stars. If you venture out to your backyard, tell someone, just in case: few situations are as frustrating as being locked out in the cold night by a spouse who later claims to have had no idea you were outside. Dress warm and bring some food and a hot drink. Wandering any distance also requires a blanket/sleeping bag and a back-up plan.

As for those who travel any distance to a dark sky site, it is a good time to review and replenish your cold weather gear and supplies for observing. It’s also a good time to have your vehicle’s battery tested to insure there are no chilling surprises when you turn the key to get home after a long night in the cold. If you can, observe with an observing buddy; if this is not possible, let someone know where you are going and check in with that person when you get back. Make sure your cell phone is charged up at all times.

 I’ve indexed the object to its star chart page.

Naked Eye

 

Matar, page 72.
Alpheratz page 74.
Equuleus page 75.
Sadalsuud, page 75..

Larger Scopes

 

IC 2149, Page 12.
AG Pegasi, Page 75.
NGC 7606, Page 76.
NGC 7009, Page 77.

 

Small Scopes and Binoculars

 

M 36,37,38, Page 12.
M15, Page 75.
M2, Page 77.

 

Bonus Objects

 

NGC 1778, Page 12.
NGC 1444, Page 13.
NGC 7331, Page 72.
NGC 7686, Page 72.
NGC 7160, Page 73.
NGC 7448, Page 74.

 

Happy Hunting!

Published with permission of John Kulczycki, 2012 all rights reserved.

About the Author

I’ve been a freelance writer for more than 20 years, but I’ve been an amateur astronomer for longer than that. Astronomy is the one science that everyone can try and make significant contributions. All you need to do is take the first step and go outside to enjoy then night sky.

I’ll see you there!