As I drove up the winding road to Devastated Area, I idly mused upon the study of astrology as I contemplated the crystal-clear skies. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 53 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 36. It appeared as the face of God. Next, I had a chance to see NGC 2022. It shimmered, as if it were the pillars of creation. Next, I helped a beginner find B 109. It took me back to the first time I saw the last six objects I'd seen. Next, I checked out B 402. It was like a nebula. Next, I star-hopped to Abell 27. It was like yet another globular. Next, I found M 42. It took me back to the first time I saw a spider. Then, for a real challenge, I accidentally located Abell 4. It reminded me of its Hubble photograph. Then, for a real challenge, I hunted for IC 3469 in Draco. It sparkled like a spider. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I tried M 105. It gave the appearance of blackness.
After a short break to drink a slurpie, I checked out M 65. It was as bright as a little triangle. With that checked off my list, I located M 43 in Hydra. It seemed almost Santa Claus. After that, I looked at Abell 92. It looked like a dodo bird, extinct but for this celestial likeness. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I hunted for NGC 6323. It somewhat resembled a glimmer of the Big Bang. After that, I checked off B 54. It seemed fainter than diamonds on light grey velvet. After that, I star-hopped to NGC 5396. It seemed almost black pearls on flocked paper.
Finally, it was time to pack up and leave. As I drove home, I contemplated the events of the night, and realized that any night out under the sky with good friends is better than stale peeps.