I spent hours aligning my telescope only to have clouds roll in

Last night was supposed to be perfect for catching the Andromeda galaxy. I carefully polar aligned my mount and focused the camera. Just as I was about to start the exposure series, thick clouds covered the whole sky. All that work for nothing, but it reminded me to always check the forecast twice. I guess sometimes astronomy is more about patience than pictures.

3 comments

3 Comments

the_michael10d ago

Forecasts are often wrong anyway, so checking twice doesn't guarantee clear skies. Remember that time last month when everyone said it would be clear and then a storm hit out of nowhere? All that prep work is wasted if you never get the shot. Astronomy should be about capturing images, not just sitting around waiting. With today's tech, we should have better ways to deal with clouds, like using observatories online. If you're not getting results, maybe it's time to find a new hobby.

sanchez.beth11d ago

What is it with clouds and perfect nights? That totally sucks but you're right about the patience game. At least the prep work wasn't wasted.

finleythomas3d ago

Honestly though, is it really that big of a deal? It's just some clouds ruining a hobby night. The prep work still taught you something for next time. People act like a missed astronomy session is a personal tragedy. It's not like your job depends on it. Maybe just go inside and watch TV.