Amateur Astronomy

has been an important part of my life for over 35 years. I like deep-sky
observing and planetary about equally well. I've owned a lot of telescopes, and
am presently satisfied with the seven I have:

  • Astro-Physics 155mm f/9 EDT refractor
  • 10" f/6 Starsplitter Compact Dobsonian with Nova optics
  • 3.5" Questar Maksutov
  • 92mm Astro-Physics Stowaway refractor
  • 3" f/6.5 Jaegers refractor
  • 40mm Coronado PST
  • Celestron Omni XLT 150mm Reflector



Items of Interest:
Astro-Physics Page

Read how I,  a humble man of less than ordinary means, came to possess these legendary telescopes.

Stowaway Review

Experience even more levels of detail as I wax enthusiastic over this fabled instrument.

Reviews of Other Telescopes

Discussions of various telescopes I have owned, plus some accessories.
Beginning Nerd Astronomy

Discover the pulse-pounding origins of my involvement in amateur astronomy.

Leonid Meteor Storm 2001

A few photographs from this amazing event.
Essays concerning observing and space:

An essay about the seasons and observing

Another essay about observing

A story about a shuttle launch
The BS Catalog of Favorite Little-Known Deep Sky Objects

No Messier objects here...but nothing especially difficult, either.

Artwork from the impact of Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 on Jupiter

My views of the most impressive celestial event anyone has ever seen.
Comet Hale-Bopp drawing and photographs

We could use a few more comets like this one.
Artwork from Saturn's 1989 occultation of 28 Sagittarii

Watching Saturn pass in front of a bright star is pretty trippy.
Grand Canyon Star Party Photos

2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
Winter Star Party Photos

2006
2007
Various Astrophotos

Mostly auroras, with a few other things.
Double Stars

Notes on a few pairs which are particularly challenging or significant in some way.

English Lessons for Amateur Astronomers

Read no farther! I warn you, don't look at this!

Celestron Omni XLT 150 Review

Are your telescopic ambitions somewhat modest? Maybe this inexpensive little scope will interest you.

Comet 17P/Holmes Drawings

A humble periodic comet makes an unexpectedly big impression.