This year’s Indian summer is now just a memory; the weather is cold and wet and the skies overcast – no astrophotography then at the moment!  Notwithstanding, it’s time to think about the forthcoming winter skies, imaging possibilities, plans and what to wear?  Winter is generally recognised as a better time for astronomy (when it is dry and clear) – darker skies, exciting objects to view and image – but it does get cold.  Normally this would require more and thicker clothes but after a visit to the Longitude Punk’d exhibition at The Royal Observatory yesterday, I realise I need to raise my game.

Two fetching astronomer’s outfits show that astronomy can be about style as well as substance.  A natty red observing suit particularly caught my eye or a less flamboyant but nicely eccentric blue silk jacket and brass work tray with accompanying gadgets (hand lens, mirror, sextant, candle and pipe) for recording observations etc.  Time to speak to my tailor!