The Bruce Observatory (sited within Caedmon College grounds - formally Whitby School) is where we conduct observations on a 'regular' basis.  Open to society members and public alike, every Sunday evening from October to April (barring a few dates) is 'open night' at the observatory.  Every Sunday evening?  Well, in practice, weather conditions on the North Yorkshire coast dictate less than 40% of journeys to the Bruce Observatory are successful.    

When conditions do allow use of the vintage 5" Cooke refractor, planetary and lunar observations can be exceptional.  For a long focal length instrument, experience has taught us that 12 -18mm eyepieces (80-130x) produce the optimum 'high magnification' image pleasing to the eye, and when 'seeing' is good the WOW factor is evident. 

The Bruce Observatory. (Click for larger image)

Following better than expected successes at the Bruce Observatory during October, all but the first date in November were cancellations; cloud and/or rain the reason.  Of the three scheduled dates in December, only December 10th proved viable, albeit for little more than 30 minutes before cloud obscured all.  The short session was however rewarding, with the GRS (great red spot) on Jupiter visible, though to be accurate this feature is more 'pale pink oval', certainly not the feature it was 40 years ago.  Still fascinating to observe all the same. The next open nights are scheduled for Jan 7th, 14th, 21, and 28th.  Let's hope the New Year has more clear skies to offer. 

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

'Stealth mode'. (Click for larger image)