GREAT OBSERVING LIST

It is my contention that you must have some kind of observing list available every time you take your scope outside. Without some kind of objective to accomplish I will usually revert to looking at the easiest and most popular objects that I have observed in the recent past. This is great for a quick look and maybe a chance to show a few friends who have dropped by what there is to see but if you have the desire to search for and look at something new everytime you observe I think some kind of organized list is just the ticket. With that in mind, I am making links to a few lists available for your use. These lists are not mine but have been published by various authors for public use. Many of the web pages have multiple and exaustive links that will take you to additional observing lists and other valuable information. Take advantage of their work and have a good observing session.

Some web sites that you can use to generate your own personal observing list for evening viewing.

Select the list name to view the actual list of objects.

The Messier Marathon Plus
This is a list that allows you to hold a Messier Marathon duting the month of September. Certain of the Messier objects have been deleted and replaced with selected NGC objects to make the event an all night session. The list is presented in a sequence that begins at evening sunset and ends at dawn.

Messier by the month
This is a very special and useful site that will allow you to set up a monthly schedule of Messier and Herschel objects. There are some other valuable tools found here that will make your evening more enjoyable.

The Finest NGC Observing Program
This listing gives 110 NGC objects that are viewable during the summer, spring, fall, and winter. The list is also sorted by constellation.

Herschel 400 Program
This a very ambitious obseving program which will keep you occupied over an extended time period--maybe even multiple years.

TONIGHTS SKY OBSERVING LIST
This is the ultimate in instant observing list. Just set in your coordinates, the time zone and what kinds of objects you want to see. The progran generates your list immediately.