Taoyuan Nights

One of the things I like most about the areas away from Taoyuan city centre, is being able to see the sky at night. If you were born in a densely populated city, rather than out in the country and away from bright lights, then you possibly don’t feel the same urge to stare into the night sky and count stars.

Where I grew up, it was possible to see thousands or tens of thousands of stars at night with your naked eye. Here, so far I’ve been lucky to see 40 or 50 - but at least it’s something, and I feel like I’m still in touch with the night sky.

This week, I’ve been standing on top of high buildings at sunset, straining my eyes while hoping for a glimpse of Comet McNaught. This comet was identified a year ago by an Australian astronomer, Robert McNaught. Since about a week ago, it has been visible around sunset and sunrise in many countries, starting with the northern hemisphere and more recently the southern hemisphere. You can read a little more about it here: Sci-Tech Today.

Unfortunately, Taoyuan has had cloudy weather for the last week or so, especially at sunset, which is quite infuriating. The only compensation I’ve had is that there have been some pleasant sunsets to enjoy.