Charlie Warren, editor of Amateur Astronomy magazine, just sent me a split out of my article How to Become a Better Observer which appears in the newest issue (#77 – Winter 2013). In it, I talk about the various physical and mental aspects of visual observing and what you can do to improve your acuity. To read it, click on Articles in the header above.
This has turned out to be a nice warm day after a frosty and cloudy start with the high temperature reaching 50 degrees. A beautiful full Moon is rising tonight. According to EarthSky.org, the second full Moon after the Winter Solstice is traditionally called the Wolf Moon (also, the Hunger Moon or Snow Moon).
Appreciate the thoughtful article, and your sketches continue to be an inspiration. Bought the pencils and paper, now if I could only buy a clear night….
Thanks, Peter. I know what you mean about the clear nights. It seems like you wait forever for decent weather and then when you do get a break, the Moon is out! Good luck with your sketching. It’s really not that hard. Just don’t be in a hurry and enjoy the experience.