Harold Meckler

Edgar Rice Burroughs of Tarzan fame wrote in one of his earliest books: “I shall have to believe even though I don’t understand.” My thoughts exactly.

People have asked me if I have a specific object or two in mind when preparing for a night under the stars. Sometimes. But serendipitous stargazing always seems to lead to something better.

This month, Jupiter is easily spotted. It is the brightest and biggest Jupiter most of us will ever see.

If the Webb telescope can show us where and how everything began, and make sense of the journey that has brought us to this time and place, maybe we’ll take more pride in preserving what we have.

On the Moon, there’s evidence of violence everywhere and, from that violence, beautiful shapes and shades have arisen that forever have thrilled the casual observer as well as the astronomer perched on a secluded mountaintop. 

Feeling lost? Not quite sure where you’re heading? Spend a few moments finding Polaris, the North Star. It’s worth the minute or two.

There are times when we look for something specific and, when found, rejoice in our persistence. But, when chance alone delivers a gift, ah, that’s when all is right in the world.

There’s an awful lot of astronomy to be learned from the Hunter and his loyal Big Dog. If you’re thinking of a place to delve into the cosmos, this is it.

It’s not always best to put too much faith in any one thing, but this is what I’m doing with the Webb.