Boy Scouts Astronomy Merit Badge

I have a very close friend in north Irving who has a 16 year old son who is earning his Eagle Scout status.  They are planning a camping trip to a private ranch near Decatur, Texas, and need a telescope or two to show the troup the sky, point out constellations, and observe the moon (43% illumination that evening, day before First Quarter), Venus, Saturn, Jupiter and prominent double stars.  The Double Cluster will probably be an easy target to demonstrate, as well.  A well-functioning laser pointer will be necessary to point out 10 constellations for the troup (as well as four zodiacal constellations).  The four zodiacal constellations won't be easy, with Capricornus setting in the southwest, Aquarius blighted by the moon, but hopefully Pisces, Aries and Taurus easily enough found.

I have a conflict this night, and concert with the Lubbock Chorale or I'd certainly be there.  I may come anyway if no one contacts me, but would rather not miss the concert if I can (haven't done Handel's Messiah in a choir since my daughters were born 15 years ago), but I will not abandon my friend in his hour of need if no one is available that evening.  This is late asking, but thought I'd throw this out there if anyone in your Club is available.  I am a member of the South Plains Astronomy Club in Lubbock, and have been a very active member for the last 22 years.

Thank you,

Collin Smith

collindsmith@gmail.com