The Hunter's Return

The skies were clear and with no clouds and haze to hinder any sight, tonight was a glorious occasion to star gaze and what a sight it was! The constellation Orion made its debut this evening and I set up my scope to tour the Hunter's belt and other stars within its vicinity. :-)

I decided to try out the CCD camera again and for better or for worse, I managed the shot as seen above. I believe I caught the far end of Orion's belt (far right of picture) whose bright star ought to be Alnitak! Anyone can verify that? ;-)

Spent the rest of the wee hours of the morning scanning the area round Orion and saw, awesomely, M42 and M43! Using the Barlow 3x, M42 was gorgeous and simply jaw dropping! I am still a novice with the CCD so, I couldn't get the picture of the Messier item just yet. :-P But, trust me, they are simply amazing sights...

After all that haze and waiting, this was worth it!