From October to April on Sunday evenings the dome of the Bruce Observatory situated in the grounds of Whitby School (Prospect Hill site) is opened for members and public. The observatory houses an f15 - 5" Cooke refractor from the late 19th century, an instrument ideally suited for lunar, planetary and multiple star observations. Living in the UK we have to accept that weather conditions are far from perfect, and truth be told 70-75% of these dates over the last two years have been unsuitable for observing. Nevertheless, we persist in our efforts.

The Bruce Observatory. (Click for larger image)

Since early December Sunday observing sessions have been particularly thin on the ground. Sunday evening for some reason being the one night of the week most likely to fall foul of poor conditions. Cloud, rain, excessive wind, have all nullified our observing ambitions.  January was disappointingly a complete ‘no show’ with no observing carried out at all.  

February started on a positive note, with skies clearer than forecast, Mark. John and Keith being joined by Brian - and a member of the public who had travelled over from York where she was holidaying. (she actually lived in Birmingham). Having contacted Mark via email earlier in the week expressing a wish to attend, it initially looked as though she would be out of luck, but weather circumstances changed, and clear skies overhead greeted her arrival at the observatory.  After being idle for some time, the Cook refractor's weighted drive system mechanism was initially reluctant to function, stalling repeatedly.  A squirt of WD 40 and some tinkering around seemed to rectify matters.

WDAS members, steps and Cooke refractor. (Click for larger image)

Our initial observation was of Venus, its crescent phase appearing quite impressive through the eyepiece.  Jupiter followed, presenting a splendid view among its Galilean moons. We utilized various magnifications to enhance our observations. Mars, the "Red Planet," was next, though little detail was visible, possibly due to a dust storm. Subsequently, we observed the Orion Nebula, Sirius, and the open cluster M35 in Gemini. During the intervals between viewing objects, we pointed out notable stars and constellations.

By 9:15 pm, it was time for our guest to depart, and we closed-up the dome after a highly successful observing session.  All remaining Sunday evening events in February were clouded out.  We look forward to resuming observations in March.

'Night vision mode'. (Click for larger image)

Please be aware that the school drive gate is now equipped with an electric key code system accessible exclusively to designated WDAS members. We kindly ask that you aim to arrive at the top car park by 19:05 hrs or make prior arrangements with Mark. Should this not be possible, you may need to use your car horn, headlights, or vocally alert us to gain access, as the gates will be closed.