as conceived by AstroMan, a.k.a. David Scherping
- Swim across Merritt Reservoir with scope on your back (points deducted for getting scope wet)
- Climb 250 ft. high sand hill
- Observe all 110 Messier objects (extra points for drawing them)
- "Dobsled" down the sand hill
- Run to Valentine and rent a canoe and a bike
- Canoe 20 miles down the Niobrara River (extra points for standing under Smith Falls)
- Get on bike and ride 50 miles back to Merritt (extra points for bringing back canoe)
- Run 200 yd. dash with "Clear Skies Coordinator" on your back and throw him in the lake
- Set a dozen trot lines for catfish
- Successfully complete Herschel 400 list by dawn
