(SNES) NASA Solar System Simulator

["Pilotstar" <pilotstar@mindspring.com>]

I observed Jupiter and Saturn Saturday night with my 6" f/8 reflector.
Seeing allowed magnification up to 220X.  I used different colored filters
on these planets. Saturn was very pleasing to behold with the Cassini
Division clearly seen, as well as several bands on the planet proper.
Jupiter exhibited some detail in two prominent belts but surprisingly was
quite bland otherwise. I did not know if the GRS should have been visible at
22H EST and did not spot it. Today, I checked NASA's Solar System Simulator
and saw the spot should have been clearly visible at the time of
observation.  Much despair!!! Are my eyes getting that bad that I couldn't
spot the GRS, even with a yellow filter? Checking both S&T magazine and
their Jupiter meridian program, however, showed the GRS NOT visible at 22H
EST Saturday night! I was going to try for the spot tonight (Sunday) but it
transits too late (around 23H 29'), so I'll try again at another time.

I removed, cleaned, and greased my 6" f/8's focuser and it now is nice and
smooth. Last night I could hardly budge it. Hope to see you all at FDO soon.

Ernie

BTW, I've read reports of people sighting the "Pup" this winter in 6"
refractors--I've had no luck, how about you?
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