Mars
Mars is so earthlike in appearance it forces one to consider the possibility that life is not exclusive to our home planet. Unfortunately, the red planet is close enough to reveal his secrets just once every two years when at opposition. And all oppositions are not created alike. However, during the great perihelic opposition of 2003, Mars will appear larger than at any time in recorded human history, fully 25 arc seconds across. Whet your appetite for Mars by checking out the drawings and detailed descriptions in this section.

Jupiter
Jupiter shows more detail than any other planet. Even a 60-mm refractor can reveal the major belts and zones in Jupiter's atmosphere. A 6-inch or larger telescope will show a wealth of details such as festoons, ovals and the Great Red Spot. This section features drawings and detailed descriptions of Jupiter.

Saturn
Saturn and his rings are considered among the top views possible with a telescope. Saturn is the planet that looks the most alien, the most other-worldly. Come inside to check out my Saturn sketches and notes.

Pluto
Pluto can easily be missed. It doesn't show a disk. You can't see rings, polar caps or cloud features. It's not much to look at however, just seeing the Solar System's most distant planet is a challenge worth the effort. If you have ever toyed with the idea of tracking down tiny Pluto, step inside for finder charts and tips to help you bag this elusive planet.

Comets
Comets pass our way as ghosts in the night, emerging from the dark shadows of the Solar System and disappearing just as mysteriously. Every once in awhile, a comet graces our skies with a spectacular display. Come inside to learn more about these most exotic of celestial creatures.