May butterflies and blossom

A bit of sunshine and warmth goes a long way here, and it has to.

Tansy beetles and others at Acaster Malbis

Had a lovely walk from Bishopthorpe across the fields to Acaster Malbis today, coming back along the river.

Crescent Moon at 8am.

This beautiful sight greeted me at breakfast on bank holiday weekend.

Three heathy outings

During the first week of May I managed to visit three different heathland sites, all with their particular attractions.

Comet PanStarrs, The Sombrero Galaxy, and Porrima.

I have waited and waited and waited to turn my eyes onto PanStarrs, the comet that has delighted those from lower northern latitudes over the last month or so. For us northerners it’s taken longer to get into view, and for me especially because I have streetlights and roofs to the north. However, it’s now high enough to spot in the evening when there’s no moon, although too dim for the naked eye. 

Mons Pico

Yesterday was a Day 9 moon and clear skies, and  Friday, all of which meant sketching. I did Mons Pico, an isolated mountain peak (2400m) in the north of Mare Imbrium. The mountain probably marks the northern border of the inner basin ring of the Imbrium, which was then mostly flooded by Maria lavas afterwards. 

Keswick reunion

Three years ago we had a disastrously wet Easter break in the lakes. We swore not to go back. This year we did. It was great.