Queensland Astrofest 2016

[MichaelSW]

Now you can start planning for 2016. Received e-mail from Astrofest committee member, Wendy as follows:-

The date for the New Moon for Astrofest next year is 3rd August, 06:45 hours – Queensland time (UTC 20:45 hours on 2nd August).

The camp dates are 29th July to 7th August 2016.

My Leave has been approved and Locked-In

[MortonH]

My leave is booked also!

[Nortilus]

if i could afford it and afford the time away from study this is something i would never miss.

[multiweb]

Looking forward to it. :stargaze:

[glend]

If they allowed dogs I'd be going but the 'old fellow' can't be left home alone.

[stanlite]

Its a pity it can't be in the July school holidays new moon would make life sooooo much easier haha :P

Will have to see when QCS test is this year damn my year 12 classes damn them all. ;)

[h0ughy]

looking forward to it - again

[stanlite]

What your allowed to come??? after getting an observatory and new home for astronomy???

or are you merely stopping by on your way to the forum of greater Australian councils symposium on drainage and works.

;):P

[h0ughy]

no, no need for drainage as it never rains in Queensland at astrofest eh ;)

looking forward for a full course of nights observing and imaging, but not in that order;)

[Zubenel]

The mark of a Good QLD Astrofest . Houghy looking like a Zombie during daylight hours:zzz:

[RB]

You mean like this?

:lol:

[Spookyer]

I plan to be there.

Brett

[Zubenel]

Yeh. That's it!!:thumbsup::zzz2::camera::camera : Note Hat , so that not one day light photon reaches him to wake him from his stupor:zzz2:

[multiweb]

I've got my tarp this time and spare nappies. :windy:

[h0ughy]

and i still look ugly. mind you though most others don't fair that well either, and thats not the 5 oclock shadow;)

[kittenshark]

Had the most horrid experience as a sponsor on so many levels. Never again.

[multiweb]

:eyepop::lol: There seems to be a pattern with star parties feedback lately. First SPSP "lazy committee" then "horrid" astrofest. Been to both and loved them. Bring some crownies and a chill pill. Geeez.... :rolleyes:

[AG Hybrid]

I will come to Astrofest this year. I've only heard good things from my friends who went last year.

[MortonH]

That's sad to hear.

Last year was my first Astrofest and it was the best thing ever. Hoping to make it every year from now on.

[kittenshark]

if you spent thousands of dollars on sponsoring stuff and be treated like c--p by the committee and be bullied, you won't be taking a chill pill. Had to forgo a month's pay for Astrofest.

I'm sure everyone else had a good time, but this is our experience and we will be keeping our money this time. That sounds more fun.

[multiweb]

Can't please everybody for sure.

[jjjnettie]

I'm so so sorry you had that experience.
What an awful thing to happen. :(

[jjjnettie]

I hope to make it again this year. :)

[troypiggo]

I think I've successfully negotiated 5 nights this year. Normally I'm only allowed 3 :D

[killswitch]

Leave has been booked!

August is so far away...

[Camelopardalis]

Fear not! This year it starts in July :D

[billdan]

Hi Everyone,

I haven't been to Astrofest before and now that I'm retired I would like to attend this year.

Is there a document that explains what I should bring along (besides astro gear), e.g generator for 240V or a bank of a 12V batteries, a weeks worth of food, and are their facilities there. I can sleep in the back of my Ute with a sleeping bag so that's not an issue.


Regards
Bill

[Zubenel]

Billdan ,
You will have a blast. I haven't missed a year since 2002!. Looks like the 2016 web site might not be up but http://www.qldastrofest.org.au/ will give you a good idea. It should answer most of your questions :):thumbsup:

[billdan]

Thanks Wes, that was really helpful.
Bill

[killswitch]

Still not soon enough!



Power, accomodation and food is available. Heres the booklet from 2014:

http://www.qldastrofest.org.au/external_files/Registration_booklet_2014_07_06.pdf

[billdan]

Cheers Edison, Thank you.
Bill
:thumbsup:

[JohnG]

Thinking seriously of travelling up this year, never been to one before, have to go to at least one... :)

Cheers

[firstlight]

Power IS available, but due to the location the supply is subject to some issues. This is a rural site in the hills near the source of the Brisbane River, and while there is power there, the Queensland Astrofest is like putting a small town (without the supporting infrastructure) where there was none before.

When the Astrofest was conceived and started, almost everybody had dobs, I recall only one computer in the first few years, and only one or two SCTs. Things have changed as in the imaging field it is not uncommon to have two computers, dew zappers of course, multiple cameras, etc. I know on their own they have modest usage but multiply that by 50 to 100... you see where this is going. The power company came out one year as there must have been complaints from other users of the single 3-phase supply to the area. I DON'T expect that the grid will be upgraded just for us. Brown-outs are an increasing issue.

Please make sure that:

All your equipment is electrically safe (no shorts, leakages, etc)
Use UPS for critical equipment
Surge protect critical equipment
Keep plug joins sealed
Avoid tripping hazards with leads and plugs (stake them down, cover with mat, etc)
Avoid using overlong power leads, coiled leads can create induction fields
240v hair-dryers are to be avoided
electric blankets and heaters put a huge load on the system - rethink your warming neads


The Committee tries to provide the best experience for all who attend, but we need fellow 'Festers to assist. Power is the greatest challenge faced by the Committee, and it is growing - just look at your own list of equipment and how it has changed in the last 10 years.

Just food for thought.

[RickS]

I was away last year but should be able to make it for at least a few nights this year.

I'd appreciate it if the committee could guarantee good weather while I'm there :thumbsup: :lol:

I'll bring my UPS, Tony!

Cheers,
Rick.

[firstlight]

Let me tell you Rick, You were missed. So much less Astro-porn to drool over.:lol:

[firstlight]

As for the weather: It will be absolutely stunning over the Astrofest time... Just don't know if that weather will be over Camp Duckadang :shrug:

[RickS]

It's nice that someone cares, Tony :)

I'll probably bring the Astro-Physics AP140EDF this time. It's a beautiful scope but not quite as menacing as the Ceravolo.

Cheers,
Rick.

[QLD_Astrofest]

Hi everyone.

Just a quick word to let everyone know that the first meeting of the Queensland Astrofest 2016 organising committee was held yesterday. Registration is estimated to "go live" toward the end of April.

As always the meeting examined the nuts and bolts of the the Astrofest. Further meetings are coming up soon and when important info needs to be announced, we will be doing it via the web-page, Facebook and through the IIS threads such as this one.

Your friendly Queensland Astrofest Committee

[h0ughy]

what a bunch of astrofesters!!!!!:thumbsup:

[firstlight]

Why, thank-you. You're a bit of a 'Fester yourself. :P

[Zubenel]

He might be an Uncle as well:P:D:lol:

[multiweb]

Where's that funky color bread? I can't see any on the meeting table? :P

[firstlight]

Cheesecake!!

[OneCosmos]

Hey folks I'm wondering if anyone can let know name and/or contact details for the guys who brought the 100mm Lunt last year? Apologies for not remembering your name 😳

Cheers

[firstlight]

Do you mean Adam Budd? Had his set-up toward the Managers cabin?

[firstlight]

try Adman

[OneCosmos]

in that direction certainly. Not far from the main entrance to the dining hall. Anyway, I can try him. Anyone have contact details for Adam Budd or know his handle on IIS?

[OneCosmos]

I found his details. Thanks Michael.

[acropolite]

Just looking at boat fares, it's been a couple of years; I think I'm having withdrawal symptoms... :face:

When are registrations open???

[OneCosmos]

I heard end of April but soon in any event. I wonder if I can manage to be first this year? Last year I even missed the early bird reduced rate:question:

[OneCosmos]

Oh dear Troy I can see I'm going to have to run some seminars during the week this year on blowing the budget without anyone knowing and and getting away for longer. I am a Jedi master 😀
Now what to call the session? Suggestions please.

Chris

[DaveO]

Hi all

I am getting the Astrofest website up and running this weekend, as I got the pricing from the Committee yesterday.

There are a couple of points that still need to be clarified regarding how the meals are being handled this year, but my understanding was that the Committee would like to have registrations open before the end of April. If they can finalise those details I can then put registrations online relatively quickly (unless people start getting creative).

I will put up a post when things are firming up, as I know there is an annual competition to see who can be first to register!

Regards
David
QAF Webmaster

[h0ughy]

i like my bunk......:D:thanx:;)

[OneCosmos]

I'll race you!

[DaveO]

Mmmmmm.... some entrepreneurial options are starting to come to mind! I might have worked out how to fund my next astro-purchase! :rofl:

[OneCosmos]

You are the gate keeper. I'll let you look through my binos😀

[h0ughy]

DaveO i will give you his 152 to sacrifice to the rain gods:P;)

[DaveO]

Just to prove that things are happening, I have set off some timers for when key dates occur. Please note that at this stage, registration opening is a "maybe" target. You will need to stay posted to this thread or the website for updates on this! :-)

[h0ughy]

LOOKING FORWARD TO IT (http://www.qldastrofest.org.au/)

[DaveO]

Howdy all

Just a heads up that while the QAF site currently says that registrations open at 10am next Saturday, I am highly likely to defer this up to 24 hours. I'm working in Sydney for the next couple of days, and there is still some testing to be done and last minute changes to implement.

Don't you love the sense of suspense? :lol:

[GTB_an_Owl]

are you doing this to annoy hOughy? :mad2:

geoff

[DaveO]

No. But like many volunteer functions, I do this in addition to a very busy full time job. And I only got the data Friday night and am still waiting for some of the information from the Committee.

Baiting Houghy is just a bonus! :-)

[GTB_an_Owl]

Dave's "ENTER" finger must be getting pretty jittery by now :computer:

geoff

[OneCosmos]

Mine too though so let the race begin!

[multiweb]

Are we there yet?

[alan meehan]

Dave just showed me his new computer in the collection its called
"THE RAPTER" lightning fast the race has started

[OneCosmos]

A bottle of Astrofest port to the winner?

[DaveO]

Hi all

Just a quick update. The site is almost ready. I made some more changes last night after my return from Sydney, and will have some more changes to do and then test tonight.

As you would be aware, in recent years Duckadang staff have been providing lunches and dinners. The Registrations form has collected information about attendees requests for these and we have passed these numbers on to Duckadang.

This year, when you book, information about these meals will be sent directly to Duckadang, who will then invoice you directly. This will avoid people having to have cash, reduce complexities for Duckadang and allow for more accurate planning. I believe you will still be able to order extra meals once you are there, but given the amount of people and planning involved, I understand why they want to do it this way!

All this has meant I have had to make some changes behind the scenes in the website to support the extra processes. The good news is that you will not see any extra changes on the website itself, as this is all done in the "magic" layer.

If testing goes well tonight, the site will open tomorrow as planned. If there are any last minute delays, I will post here.

[h0ughy]

um but I don't wish to be locked in to meals when i will be asleep or worse. sometimes the meals aren't appetising, due to tiredness or food type ;)

while i applaud your resourcefulness and the positives of the action, i wont be choosing meals this year. i dont want to be billed for meals i probably wont have. i cant predict what i feel like at breakfast, last year i did see beer offerings for the sun god, let alone lunch at 12 and "dinner" at 5. i could sleep through dinner and may be non functional at 12:shrug:

and unfortunately i wont be the first unit to log in as i will be at my sons soccer so good luck to those competing

[DaveO]

Hi David

Understand your position, and that's why I believe people will be able to order at the event as well. I understand their rationale - 50 people ordering meals for which maybe 30 turn up and pay is probably not a good way to keep costs down!

If you or anybody else have queries, I suggest you contact the Registrar or a member of the Committee (remember, I'm not on the Committee - I just do the website stuff for them :screwy: ).

I have some final tests to run this morning, but things are looking good for "go for launch" this morning as planned.

[multiweb]

I think it makes sense in general and will be better for them to plan the main meals, as long as we're still allowed to order last minute fillers :) Sucks for you though modifying their backend. These things can get incredibly messy really quick, what if?... ;)

[DaveO]

Thanks Marc - as you say, things can get "interesting". And the day it goes live is the one I am most nervous about - if things don't work perfectly, everybody knows who to point the finger at! :help:

But actually not too bad this year. Last year I replaced the "store" established by the last webmaster with a "form" - that made it simpler for people registering, and most of the work was last year getting it to all work and calculate behind the scenes. This years was (almost) a copy and paste. I just needed to update prices and dates, and it largely worked. The extra email generation for Duckadang was also relatively straight forward.

So, back to some last minute testing! I need to manually "flick the switch", so the site should be live shortly after the counter zeros out. But don't expect nano-second activation! :lol:

[DaveO]

QAF Registrations are now open! Had to go slightly early as it is my son's birthday, and he has just gotten up! :-)

Enjoy folks.

[DaveO]

Egads - what were you people doing! Automated keyboard refresh engines?

The first in is Chris Cox.

[multiweb]

Worked well. :thumbsup:

[OneCosmos]

Yay!

[DaveO]

Thanks Marc. :thanx:

Glad it worked. Feedback, as always, is welcome, whether it be good or bad.

[DaveO]

Interesting observation: in the lead up to going live I could see 13 guests on the site (plus me). So far there have been 4 registrations.

One wonders if you guys are taking a leaf out of the Google playbook and building "registration bots"! :lol:

[multiweb]

By internet standards it's still a pretty good conversion rate. Analytics BS vs. Real sales. Oops!... did I say that out loud? :lol:

[h0ughy]

well Alan and I are now booked

[DaveO]

:rofl:
:rofl:
:rofl:
:rofl:

[DaveO]

Glad to hear that David.

[MortonH]

Edison and I are booked in. Going for a bunk room this year instead of freezing in our tents!

[peter_4059]

Leave got approved this week. I'm in.

[h0ughy]

excellent:thumbsup:

[allan gould]

Got tipped off by peter_4059 to register.
I'm in now

[GTB_an_Owl]

do i need to run another " expression of interest " for Astrofest ?????????!


geoff

[JohnG]

See ya up there Allan, booked in myself, looking forward to my first :thumbsup:

Cheers

[h0ughy]

sure that wont eat into your holiday time Allan.:P

looking forward to the escargot being there:thumbsup::lol:

[h0ughy]

gee that will be a huge trip John, you doing that in two days?

[JohnG]

Yeah Dave, might have done it in one go when I was a lot younger, not now though, wanted to do this camp for a while now, another one off the list.. :P

[allan gould]

Looking forward to catching up John. We will have a great time.

[allan gould]

No it won't David as I just get back from Laos and Cambodia, go to Astrofest and then it's off to Indonesia. Your tax dollars at work -so thanks.
Allan

[troypiggo]

Booked mine today. 5 nights. I'll be arriving on the Tuesday, so make sure you guys have beers ready to sit around and give me sh!t while I put up my gear as usual. :D

[h0ughy]

but without that caring and sharing it wouldn't be the same:P, we are after all concerned that you don't get things mixed up;)

[dreamstation]

How would one attempt to attend something like this if you didn't plan on taking a scope, only wanted to visit for the one night and have never met anyone before from IIS?

[troypiggo]

Think there are day passes available. If you need to stay over, just book one night. Everyone is approachable and helpful I've found.

[MichaelSW]

James,

G'day.

That is what I did in 2009. Didn't even own a telescope - went to have a look at the different scopes available. Didn't know anyone there. Stayed for two nights. Met a lot of people happy for me to look through their scopes and share their knowledge. Got an amazing sky tour from GlenC (Star Hopper) on the Saturday night which set the course for my journey into Amateur Astronomy.

Came home wishing I had planned for more than just two nights camping out.

See you there.

Cheers.

[barx1963]

James
I have not been to Astrofest unfortunately, but I will relate my first experiences attending astro camps. My first was in 2008 at the ASV Messier party at Heathcote. I arrived at the venue to find over 100 people already there. The observing field was already being covered with what to me looked like a very impressive array of scopes and i found myself quite unwilling to even get my little 130mm wobbletronic scope out of the car. Anyway after a couple of hours wandering around I started chatting to a gentleman who asked me about my scope, and I said "Oh I don't think i will bother getting it out it's pretty small and unimpressive".
"Nonsense" he said, "Get it out and I will help you to use it"
We ended up having a great night, learnt more about scopes and observing that one night than I had in a couple of years of cruising the internet and have been going to camps ever since.
Just take the plunge and join in, they are great fun!!

Malcolm

[peter_4059]

Looking forward to it :D

[QLD_Astrofest]

Hi all Astrofesters and friends,

Just a quick reminder that the Earlybird Registration is closing at he end of the month. To put into context, if you intend to come for the whole event it will pay for one night accommodation or a couple of meals from the Lions.

Cheers
Astrofest Committee

[QLD_Astrofest]

Hi James,

There is no requirement to have a lot of expensive equipment, vast knowledge, or know many of the people there. The Queensland Astrofest was started by the Astronomy Clubs and Associations in South East Queensland to gather and share our joy of astronomy and... Well, that's it actually.

Everyone who come to Astrofest is coming to enjoy their hobby. Some like to image, some like to draw what they see, some like to view the skies directly and all like to share. And there are some that have extensive set-ups at home but come to Astrofest to take part in the amateur astronomical community - to socialise, share their knowledge and to learn.

I'm sure that you will find you will have a great time, see fantastic telescopes, and meet lots of amateurs, some of whom frequent this forum.

Cheers
Queensland Astrofest Committee

[Zubenel]

Hi Committee ,
I have always been conscious regarding light pollution on the visual field especially with the proliferation of computer assisted DSC's for guidance , information and observational notes.In the current edition of Sky and Tel P36-P39,Robert Dick advocates the use of LEDS and I quote" Ensure it does not emit light at wavelengths shorter than 500nm. The peak wavelength should be 590nm which is the boundary between orange and yellow",and 1 to 3 lux. This standard has been adopted by Canadian Dark-Sky Preserves. I was thinking of fixing an old "Geoff Special" black box 3 led torch and including one of these LEDS in the upgrade.As RED light(650nm) traditionally been the standard can you advise if this can be considered and advise if acceptable?
Cheers. Wes.

[AstroJunk]

Walk up to any large Dobsonian on the Observing field and say to its owner:

"Hi I'm ...., Could I Join you?"

This works even better if you are holding a bottle of port and the dob owner is me ;)

(This is especially true if Peter is there with his 30", because I'll be Johnny no mates with my teeny twenty :P )

[QLD_Astrofest]

Hi Wes,

I'm not sure what the real question is. Are you proposing to use a torch with a yellow/orange led instead of red? Or instead of white?

From your quote it seems that the article refers to illumination for buildings or outside areas. The colour they describe is close to sodium vapour (~589.3 nm), and 1 lux is described as a night-time carpark brightness (liteonled.com.au).

On the face of it if you want to replace your white light with a sodium yellow LED for when packing up in case of rain etc, I can't see a problem. But not for general use on the field, red is the only acceptable colour.

QLD Astrofest Committee

[Camelopardalis]

In the event of that happening, come find me on the imaging field and I'll be your mate ;) :lol:

[AstroJunk]

Hurrah!

[astroron]

My scope is smaller than those two guys scopes and I too will be happy to show you the night sky.
They may have bigger scopes, but I have better stories and patter. :P
I am a bit cheaper than Jonathan, I am happy with a beer.:D
Cheers:thumbsup:

[Zubenel]

:lol: You and me both.. :P

[Zubenel]

The article specifically is directed towards light used for reading . I only use red leds but this article is saying that this frequency affects your night vision less. I suppose this topic is very "new " and somewhat controversial so just thought it may be worth discussing, that's all.

[AstroJunk]

He does and he is :thumbsup:

[DavidTrap]

Ron = walking, talking Argo Navis

[Zubenel]

Under wet cement:lol: :astron:

[astroron]

:poke::poke::poke::P

[winstar]

An update about the road to Duckadang, of interest to those pulling heavy loads: the bridge on the far side of Linville featuring wood and lumpy bolts, has been pulled down, presumably for a nice new bridge, but that won't be happening anytime soon. Meanwhile it is an earthy drive down one side and up the other. Right this moment it is probably full of water, with all the wild weather that we've had.

[h0ughy]

that doesnt sound good:sadeyes::question:

[winstar]

It was easy to navigate a couple of weeks ago before the rain came, and this is very unseasonal for south east Queensland. Should be OK by then.:confused2:

[h0ughy]

the last time we diverted was after the floods. Now you have booked clear skies for that week haven't you;)

[Camelopardalis]

Thanks for the heads-up Wendy - does not sound promising for those with a trailer or motorhome

[MortonH]

Is there an alternate route if the bridge area is impassable?

[AstroJunk]

There is one way in and one way out. And what happens at astrofest stays at .... etc

[MortonH]

I don't mind being stuck at Duckadang. But I'd hate to come all the way from Sydney and find there's no road!

[Camelopardalis]

With a 4x4 it's easy enough to get in via South East Nanango, it's just unsealed. The same 4x4 would no doubt have little trouble with a bridge out at Linville ;)

[killswitch]

There's always a road with the Hilux.

I've done a fair bit of offroading and water crossings, getting past a bridge should be fun.

[multiweb]

+1 Post a pick of the bridge when you get a chance so we can see what we're up against. I don't drive a 4x4 up there.

[Camelopardalis]

If I get a chance I'll zip up there in my front-wheel drive runabout and suss it out. I might be towing this year...

[killswitch]

Towing?... someones gotten some new toys this year :D

[MortonH]

Sounds like there's no point in collimating anything before we get there then!

[Camelopardalis]

:lol: ;)

[dreamstation]

A bit of a late thank-you for all the comments and suggestions re: going to Astrofest without knowing anyone or bringing anything but unfortunately I'm not sure I'm going to make it with busy times at work coming up around the same time. I suppose there's always next year right?

[jwheel69]

During my first visit to Australia last year, I attended Astrofest for a few days and had a great time!

Joe Wheelock

[winstar]

According to Belinda the camp manager, cattle trucks have had no problem negotiating the bypass round the bridge, and caravans too. They did not get much rain either, unlike Brisbane and surrounding areas.

[Nortilus]

I so miss QLD Astrofest. Been in 2012 and and 2013, but missed the last 2 and will miss this one too...hopefully I when I finish my degree and hopefully move down to SEQ, I will be a regular attendee...I do miss alot of you and the chats we have.

[Cp75]

Better hope it warms up a bit between now and then:thumbsup:

[GTB_an_Owl]

nothing a freezer suit won't handle Craig

geoff

[jjjnettie]

:) So I've booked in for the entire camp, plus the feast. :)
I'll be bringing along a heap of second hand astro gear to sell, so bring lots of cash. There's dew controllers and straps, catseye collimator, GPUSB, guide scope and rings, ZWO mono, retro camera lenses, Central DS cooled camera plus loads more goodies.
(It all belonged to my friend Paul. All monies go back to his widow and two little daughters, I make no profit on the transactions.)

[spacezebra]

Hi J

Is there a list of gear, cos I think I may be interested in the dew straps.

Cheers Petra d.

[QLD_Astrofest]

Hi everyone,

We haven't been too flash with the updates this year as it seems that our lives have become even busier (sound familiar?), so I have a bit of an epic to relate.
1. Major Sponsors.
We are lucky to have four Major Sponsors:
AstroShop http://www.myastroshop.com.au/
Skywatcher http://www.skywatcheraustralia.com.au/
Bintel http://www.bintel.com.au/
AstroDevices http://www.astrodevices.com/

A full list of their contributions to the raffle will be posted in a few days. For those intending to attend the Queensland Astrofest, and are looking for specific equipment, why not contact our Major Sponsors and let them know what you would like to buy at the Vendor Sales so they can make sure they have what you want?

2. Bridge Replacement at Linville
The local council is replacing the bridge just past Linville. There is no problem taking your vehicles, caravans, or trailers through the diversion. Those who remember the diversions when the other bridges were damaged in the 2011 floods will recall that it was not that hard to pass. This project is planned from the start and not built ad hoc like in 2011 so it is better designed.

3. Phone Vouchers
As most are aware there is no mobile phone reception at Camp Duckadang (Pokemon Go players just chill). Telstra in their wisdom are discontinuing the phone vouchers that we use in the public phone at Registration (Rubie House AKA Committee House). If you have vouchers from previous years they will still be able to be used until November. As of a few weeks ago the manager of the camp had a limited supply of vouchers but we can't count on them for the Astrofest. We still will be able to make calls with reverse charge, and we have been informed that third party vouchers MAY work, we have yet to test this. The main alternative is a drive to Moore Cemetary where most carriers can be received.

4. Programme
We are finalising a programme for this years event, and will be posted in full on the website (and here) in the next few days. Apologies for the delay.
A few highlights are:
Jonti Horner during the first weekend with a lecture 'Jupiter - Friend or Foe?', and 'Desert Fireball Network' (an all sky camera has been installed at Camp Duckadang).

Terry Cuttle relating eclipse expeditions to Svalbad and Indonesia, and an update for the one in USA in August 2017.

Pixinsight workshops on Thursday, Friday and Saturday with Rick Stevenson.

Astronomical Sketching Workshop with Alex Massey

The AstroQuiz - Duel between teams from the Astronomical Clubs in South-East Queensland

Counterweight Toss (Yes... its back!)

Vendor Sales, although it seems they will be only occurring on the second weekend.


5. Power at Astrofest
As most people know, there is electrical power at the site. The Astrofest Committee is endeavoring as always to distribute the electricity to power stations in the fields. We in no way can ensure that there will no interruption to power, especially if faulty cables, powerboards, fridges or heaters are connected. We urge everyone to run their critical equipment through UPS or 12 volt. Due to previous problems, we cannot allow fridges heaters and toasters in caravans to be connected to the reticulation. The Astrofest has hired a coldroom, and there is provision for cooking at the rotunda.

6. Daily Catering
If you require meals through the week, please arrange them through the registration page. Any meals other than the AstroFeast will be invoiced by the Lions Camp manager and is separate from the Queensland Astrofest Committee.

7. AstroFeast
The AstroFeast is charged as part of your registration fees if selected, or can be booked at the camp, but be aware deadlines apply. The meal is alternate drop of beef or chicken with a booking deadline of Monday 1st August. Any booking after that date will only receive chicken, with a final deadline on Wednesday 3rd August. We are not able to extend these deadlines so please work out your meal arrangements early.

8. Astrophoto Competition
If you want to enter an image into the Astrophoto competition, please arrange you photo to be sent to the Committee prior to the camp starting. Some registrants will be attending in the early part of the week and if your image is not on view from the start, it may miss votes. The Committee cannot accept digital entries as we will not print them. Last posting date is Friday 22nd July as Australia Post cannot guarantee anything posted later will be received by the Committee prior to commencement of the camp.

Sorry this has been such an epic novel. If you haven't registered please do so now, there is only 18 days until Astrofest is under way!

Queensland Astrofest Committee

[QLD_Astrofest]

Sorry for the no response from us. The roadworks are easily traversed by conventional vehicles, towing or not.

Cheers
Queensland Astrofest Committee

[MortonH]

Great!

[QLD_Astrofest]

Major Sponsor Update

We have just had confirmed the Gondwana Telescopes http://gondwanatelescopes.com/ will be a Major Sponsor at this years Queensland Astrofest.

Attendees from the last few Astrofests will remember Alex Massey from Gondwana Telescopes and his beautifully hand crafted telescopes, distinctive astronomical sketches, and his blatant disregard of the prevailing social mores by setting up a visual telescope in the middle of the Imaging field! :lol:

Alex will also be conducting a Sky Tour on Friday Night for those who are not so familiar with the celestial treasures above SE Queensland, and for those who just want a look through one of those beautiful telescopes.

A full list of Raffle prizes will be posted in coming days.

Queensland Astrofest Committee

[thunderchildobs]

Actually, Alex was part of my imaging system :)

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/attachment_browse.php?a=186682

[mental4astro]

One year on, and I still have a twitch... :lol:

I am pleased to be able to be one of the major sponsors of Qld Astrofest this year as Gondwana Telescopes.

Now it is not just telescopes Gondwana Telescopes offers. The product range has now expanded to include a line of handcrafted observing aids. The first of these are the Blinking Paddles and the Observing Chairs with a choice of Australian timbers or cost effective imported timbers. You can find out more about these through the Gondwana Telescopes (gondwanatelescopes.com) website in the Observation Aids (http://www.gondwanatelescopes.com/observation-aides) page. No idea on what a blinking paddle is, or how useful these can be? Come and see me during the evenings I am at Astrofest and I'd love to demonstrate them for you.

You will find a list of the donated prizes from Gondwana Telescopes in the News and Events (http://gondwanatelescopes.com/news-and-events) page, along with special prices on selected items.

I will be at Astrofest from the 4th of August until the Sunday.

Alex.

[Sirius1066]

Astrofest is so close now 17 more sleeps... How exciting!

I'm not a frequent poster here (unfortunately time doesn't permit) so I should just introduce myself. My name is Earl (no pun intended) I'm the chairperson of QLD Astrofest.

I just wanted to take a few moments to really plug and thank our sponsors. I'm not joking when I say that without our sponsors we wouldn't have Astrofest. It is their donations that keep the cost of attending so reasonable.

As a way of saying thank you and showing support for our sponsors this year I'd like to solicit your help.

Over the coming days we will begin a Facebook campaign promoting the 2016 sponsors. For those of you who have Facebook could you please watch out for these posts and then share them on your own feeds. We will post the first one tonight.

If you are not already following QLD Astrofest on Facebook please go follow now https://www.facebook.com/QLDAstrofest/ and get ready to help us maintain our high standards at a reasonable cost by sharing our posts.

Watch out for the posts beginning tonight (Tuesday 12th)

As you begin packing to attend Astrofest over the next couple of weeks and realise that you don't have the really important bit of kit that you've always really wanted, why not go check out our sponsors. I'm sure they'll be able to help.

AstroShop http://www.myastroshop.com.au/
Skywatcher http://www.skywatcheraustralia.com.au/
Bintel http://www.bintel.com.au/
AstroDevices http://www.astrodevices.com/
Gondwana Telescopes http://gondwanatelescopes.com/

[h0ughy]

now you know you have to organise that there is none of the stuff covering Queensland at the moment

[multiweb]

My take on this is that it all rains down on it now there won't be any water left up there for astrofest so it's all good. Leave the tap open in full. :thumbsup:

[RickS]

I have volunteered to do some short PixInsight sessions at Astrofest:

Thu 4 Aug: Calibration and basic LRGB workflow
Fri 5 Aug: LRGB workflow enhancements
Sat 6 Aug: Advanced techniques


They will start at 1pm each day and go for a couple of hours - perhaps longer on days that are overcast (fingers crossed there aren't any!) These will be more of a "show & tell" than a workshop due to the limited time but I'm always happy to answer questions and discuss techniques outside these sessions.

Cheers,
Rick.

[h0ughy]

that sounds great Rick,and it looks like we might have a heap of time to spend on this :question:

[multiweb]

Look on the bright (http://www.yr.no/place/Australia/Queensland/avoca_vale/long.html) side.

[Spookyer]

Much appreciated Rick, I aim to attend

Brett

[h0ughy]

that's only leading up to next weekend. I so hope that it improves, other wise i will be going the eq5pro route and the star adventurer:question:.

either way i will enjoy the company and the chat with a knowledgeable crew of misfits:rofl: might have to stock up on some grapejuice;)

[Camelopardalis]

That doesn't correlate well with Weatherzone's 28-day rain forecast, but it's just arm waving this far out...

[RickS]

I'm looking forward to clear skies, perfect guiding and catching up with everybody. At least one out of three is guaranteed :)

[h0ughy]

:prey: clear skies:question:

[DaveO]

Hi all

Online registration will close tonight at about 10pm, so that the Registrar can finalise numbers in advance of the event.

If you miss this opportunity, onsite registration will still be available.

[DaveO]

Online registrations are now closed.

[QLD_Astrofest]

Hello fellow Astrofesters,

An update for the Queensland Astrofest starting in only 4 more sleeps!

1. Major Sponsors.
We now have six Major Sponsors with Celestron coming onboard in the last week:
AstroShop http://www.myastroshop.com.au/
Skywatcher http://www.skywatcheraustralia.com.au/
Bintel http://www.bintel.com.au/
AstroDevices http://www.astrodevices.com/
Gondwana Telescopes http://gondwanatelescopes.com/
Celestron Australia http://www.celestron.com/

To see the full list of contributions to the raffle, visit the Raffle 'page on the Queensland Astrofest website http://www.qldastrofest.org.au/index.php/raffle.

For those intending to attend the Queensland Astrofest, and are looking for specific equipment why not contact our Major Sponsors and let them know what you would like to buy at the Vendor Sales so they are sure to bring what you want?

2. Bridge Replacement at Linville
A reminder that the local council is replacing the bridge just past Linville. There is no problem taking your vehicles, caravans, or trailers through the diversion. Those who remember the diversions when the other bridges were damaged in the 2011 floods will recall that it was not that hard to pass. This project is planned from the start and not built ad hoc like in 2011 so it is better designed.

3. Phone Vouchers
As most are aware there is no mobile phone reception at Camp Duckadang (Pokemon Go players just chill). Telstra in their wisdom are discontinuing the phone vouchers that we use in the public phone at Registration (Rubie House AKA Committee House). If you have vouchers from previous years they will still be able to be used until November. As of a few weeks ago the manager of the camp had a limited supply of vouchers but we can't count on them for the Astrofest. We still will be able to make calls with reverse charge, and we have been informed that third party vouchers MAY work, we have yet to test this. The main alternative is a drive to Moore Cemetary where most carriers can be received.

4. Programme
We have finalised a Programme (finally :lol:), and I have attached a PDF version to this notice.

5. Power at Astrofest
As most people know, there is electrical power at the site. The Astrofest Committee is endeavoring as always to distribute the electricity to power stations in the fields. We in no way can ensure that there will no interruption to power, especially if faulty cables, powerboards, fridges or heaters are connected. We urge everyone to run their critical equipment through UPS or 12 volt. Due to previous problems, we cannot allow fridges heaters and toasters in caravans to be connected to the reticulation. The Astrofest has hired a coldroom, and there is provision for cooking at the rotunda.

6. Daily Catering
If you require meals through the week, it is too late to arrange them through the registration page. Please contact the camp directly via email to info@campduckadang.com.au. All meals other than the AstroFeast is fully the responsibility of the Camp Duckadang Management, and they will invoice you directly.

7. AstroFeast
The AstroFeast is charged as part of your registration fees if selected, or can be booked at the camp, but be aware deadlines apply. The meal is alternate drop of beef or chicken with a booking deadline of Monday 1st August. Any booking after that date will only receive chicken, with a final deadline on Wednesday 3rd August. We are not able to extend these deadlines.

8. Astrophoto Competition
As yet I am unaware if anyone is entering an image in the Astro-photo competition. We have been contacted by the Courier Mail who are interested in a photo spread. Full details are not at hand as yet, but if you are intending to enter please PM us and I will give you an email address you can send a digital copy. Please see the Registrar on arrival so that we may have your image on display as soon as we are able.

Queensland Astrofest Committee

[multiweb]

Looks pretty good now for the long term forecast (http://www.yr.no/place/Australia/Queensland/avoca_vale/long.html).

Linville webcam here (http://m.webcams.travel/webcam/1458305483-linville-north-west?hl=en).

[OneCosmos]

and http://7timer.org/index.php?product=civil&lang=en&lon=152.2351757&lat=-26.756828

[h0ughy]

well i have started to pack. I am travelling light this year

[OneCosmos]

Hmm I'll believe that when I see it!

[RickS]

Speed or weight? :lol:

[h0ughy]

neither African or European - one scope, one small mount plus a few other things

[acropolite]

I'd like to see that. Make sure there are lots of happy snaps for us wannabee Astrofesters who can't make the trip.

[astroron]

How long are you at astrofest for,Phil:question:
Cheers:thumbsup:

[acropolite]

unfortunately not at all, I had a training course clashed with the Astrofest dates, a few days ago I contracted a serious knee infection so I miss out on both. We intend on making it next year... :)

[astroron]

:sadeyes: Well in that case I may just head on over there and cat6ch up with you on your own terms, ;)
Cheers:thumbsup:

[MichaelSW]

G'day.

Thought I'd share this.

Was having a look on Heavens-Above for Astrofest location and saw that a Solar Transit by the ISS is predicted for Saturday July 30. (As I interpret the diagram).

Have attached the track chart and timings. No 'exact' timing for the transit, but I plan to be looking out for a small black image zapping across!

I have never tried this before. Someone might have another application that is more precise.

Cheers.

[multiweb]

We'd better get cracking and over that Linville bridge before nothing's left of it after the passage of the H0ughy caravan. ;)

[jjjnettie]

Clear and frosty is the forecast!!
Remember to knock 5C off the minimum for Linville. :)
http://www.bom.gov.au/qld/forecasts/ipswich.shtml

[jjjnettie]

I received a Calsky alert for the transit on Saturday. Not sure if it will extend as far as Linville though.
But it's worth a try. :)

[jjjnettie]

Here's the tables for the ISS, Iridium and Hubble passes during camp.
I've printed them all out and will nail them to the wall in the dining hall. :)

[h0ughy]

fantastic JJJ -lets hope we are still functioning at some of those times ;)

[jjjnettie]

Trying to work out how I'm going to fit 2 rooms full of gear into my little van. :(
Then I have to try to squeeze in clothes and food on top of that. :(

[h0ughy]

and you're only travelling a small distance ;), 1100km further and i am in the same boat:rofl:

[RickS]

Must be a bloody ark :lol:

[multiweb]

Cars all packed. Ready to rock'n'roll tomorrow morning. Should be on the field Saturday midday. Weather's still looking sweet. :sunny:

Chances of a "QLD sun shower" :windy: on Wednesday but no problem. I remember the last one and I have my H0ughy Tarp and assorted pegs, Scuba and Flippers for the 30min of hell it might last. :thumbsup:

[jjjnettie]

:) It's going to be another awesome Astrofest. :) Looking forward to catching up with you again. :)

[multiweb]

Likewise and looking forward to the music. :cool3:

[troypiggo]

Noone is allowed to have any fun until I get there on Tuesday!

[Retrograde]

Looking forward to my first Astrofest. Leaving on Saturday and should be there Sunday afternoon sometime ready for a great week :)

[multiweb]

Oooo... you're going to be late?... That's a carton of crownies right there.

[troypiggo]

You spelled "Asahi" wrong. Is 12 litres of beer, bottle of port, and bottle of Baileys enough for 5 nights?

[multiweb]

We'll manage. :thumbsup:

[peter_4059]

Last work day today. Packing in the morning and expecting to be there soon after lunch time....happy days.

[MortonH]

In Glen Innes for overnight break. Temp will be -3C tonight - lovely!

[RickS]

I still have about a week's work to do tomorrow and Saturday before I start packing. See you all on Sunday. Save me a spot with access to plenty of photons :)

[Spookyer]

Does anyone know if the microwave in the pergola will be available to guests again?

Brett

[thunderchildobs]

Some photos from the Astrofest.
The weather has been perfect for the first 3 days.
(What else would you expect from queensland)

[Windston]

I wish I could come out and spend the week with you guys. Damned high school getting in the way of things!

I just got my new NEQ6 and I would love to get some tips from you guys! I might be able to make it out on Friday-Sunday, but would that be to late?

[mental4astro]

Of course it is fine! Registration is possible on-site when you arrive.

[hikerbob]

I had a shortened stay this year. Not sure if the link will work but I've posted pictures I worked on at Queensland Astrofest on Facebook.

I hope the link gets there https://www.facebook.com/robert.stephens.106902/media_set?set=a.10210338363919687.1 073741832.1359735808&type=3&pnref=story

I had a great time, clear skies up until just after midnight last night. Great people, enjoyable food and as usual a fantastic setup. Top job by the committee.

[DaveO]

The Astrofest Committee have asked me to post this to FB, but I thought I'd add it here as well.

[AstroJunk]

Bugger. Hadn't realised the main speaker had been moved to the first weekend :mad2:

[OneCosmos]

I returned home mid-week because of the weather but plan on being back on Friday, but in the meantime here are a few pics.

The last one was taken on the road back to Moore early in the morning.

Chris

[Dennis]

Hope you folks are okay – we had some quite strong, gusting westerlies for most of the evening/night (Wed) in Brisbane.:shrug:

Cheers

Dennis

[jwheel69]

Brings back memories from my visit last year.

[multiweb]

Tuesday and Wednesday were a little windy and rainy. Friday, Saturday and Sunday were clear, Thursday and Friday also clear but with better seeing, so 5 clear nights ain't half bad. Another great star party. :stargaze:

[acropolite]

any happy snaps Marc???

[multiweb]

Still making my way down to Sydney. In Armidale now for a rest, back on the road in the morning. Lappie is full with 5 nights worth of data.

[Dennis]

Thanks Marc, that's much better than what was dished up for Brisbane!:)

Cheers

Dennis

[Camelopardalis]

Thanks to all involved for making this another cracking AstroFest :thumbsup: roll on next year :D

[glend]

I thought dogs were not allowed? That has been keeping me away for some years now. Please explain?

[troypiggo]

That's the camp manager's dog.

[MortonH]

Another fantastic Astrofest. Thanks to all who helped to organise it!

[RickS]

I had a blast :) Great to catch up with everyone and capture a few photons in between the clouds and beers.



Yes, indeed :thumbsup:

Cheers,
Rick.

[Retrograde]

Got back this afternoon (also stayed at Armidale overnight).
Yes thanks to the organisers for all the hard work it takes to put on such a great event as this & thanks to all the regulars for making me feel so welcome :thumbsup:

[AstroJunk]

https://www.facebook.com/Jaybee360/photos/a.1129182510478676.1073741828.11285 62150540712/1163459947050932/?type=3&theater

Check out the panorama :eyepop:

Thanks to all for a great weekend - Sorry I had to make a dash for the airport whilst you were at breakfast and didn't get to say a proper bye bye. Oh, and polish that trophy for me ;)

[jjjnettie]

The group photos from the first and second Saturdays.
It was wonderful to catch up with you all again. :)

[h0ughy]

I had a great time, met lots of people, eaten things that needed a better description and imaged things with my superior imaging setup:rofl: and caught some ruddy flu/cold woggy thing as i left, now suffering:sadeyes:

the drive up was pretty good but the drive home was better less traffic. was sad leaving though. No photon was wasted in bring these images to you - a spattering of the people and things over the field during the event.

the committee did a great job, the imaging field is just that - the imaging field, the observing field , well, observing:lol:;) so never they never should mix:question:

over all i gathered 2 terrabytes of solar data, and a few 50mm shots

[h0ughy]

more field memorable moments

[h0ughy]

and a bit more

[h0ughy]

well it should have stayed at astrofest but here is still more

[h0ughy]

surely there must be someone famous here;)

[h0ughy]

but then the night comes alive

[multiweb]

Great shots mate! :thumbsup: All of them. :lol: What a great week it was hey? Still got stars in my eyes. :stargaze:

[RickS]

More like infamous :lol: Nice pics, Houghy.

[troypiggo]

What a shock, Peter has a beer in his hand... :lol:

[multiweb]

Primary hitting by the look of it.

[MortonH]

Thought I'd share some of my visual highlights of the 'fest:

- viewing the Veil through John's 14.5" SDM with OIII filter
- bagging 13th mag NGC 131 in my 8" Newt
- cruising the Milky Way with my SV66ED & Baader Hyperion 36mm (FOV 6.5 degrees)

[jjjnettie]

My favourite moment was finding someone who was as big a Father Ted fan as me. LOL. :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPeCHvAJCEQ

[MortonH]

I don't believe it! :lol:

[jjjnettie]

:rofl::rofl::rofl:

[Dennis]

Thanks for the group photos Jeanette – some familiar faces and quite a few new ones. Must snap out of my Astro-doldrums and get back to Astrofest once more.:)

Cheers

Dennis

[Dennis]

Hi Dave

Thanks for another sumptuous smorgasbord of photos – you are without doubt the king of Astrofest social documentary photographers, bar none.:thumbsup:

Get well soon too!:)

Cheers

Dennis

[killswitch]

Heres the timelapse of the big 30" dob being assembled.

https://youtu.be/9KTIX7bXcQE

Also pics of the SDM dobs lined up

(https://youtu.be/9KTIX7bXcQE)

[MortonH]

Cool!

[jjjnettie]

A happy snap.

[QLD_Astrofest]

Hi everyone,

Although the Queensland Astrofest is over for another year, there are still a few loose ends that need to be tied up.

If you had an entry in the Erwin van der Velden photo competition, could you please send a PM with a link or your email address so we can get a reasonably high resolution (4-10mb) electronic copy. The Courier Mail want to do a photo spread of our competition but I need the images by Thursday. I have several of the images but I don't have the Eta Carinae, M16, and Markaian's Chain in the Telescope category. We also need the Milky Way shot in the Non-Telescope Category.

We will also need the photo credit, and some information about the capture and subject. No need to be too technical, but more info is better than no info... they will edit it anyway.

Your help greatly appreciated.

[killswitch]

Managed to process a couple more nightscapes.

I still have to finish unpacking the car and clean up :(

[RickS]

Nice pics!

[Camelopardalis]

Awesome shots mate :thumbsup:

[multiweb]

That star trail reflection shot is superb. :thumbsup:

[multiweb]

I take it wasn't Troy sign writing? :lol:

[MortonH]

Look at that disgraceful light pollution from the committee building! :lol:

Great shots!

[DaveO]

Results from the 2016 Raffle have been posted to the website and can be found here: http://www.qldastrofest.org.au/index.php/2016-raffle#winners

A big shout out to all our sponsors this year - you made the event that much more exciting, and it was a delight to see so many of you able to join us for dinner and the draw.

Please support these sponsors - it's a small country and a focused community, and without local astronomy suppliers, we would be always at the mercy of overseas suppliers and transport costs.

[mental4astro]

Many thanks to the good folks of Astrofest for organising this wonderful event. I had a great time, met some great people (new faces and old mates) and enjoyed great skies.

I managed to complete three sketches during the two clear nights I had. I've attached a pic of the piece I did of Andromeda galaxy. I've been wanting to sketch this beauty ever since my first view of it at the IIS Astro Camp some 5 years ago. Finally got a good transparent sky to do so. The field of view is some 3° of the sketch (more than twice the field of view I had through the eyepiece), and the sketch makes use of the entire A3 size sheet. I also managed to spot the star cloud NGC 206 within Andromeda - in the sketch it is the brighter spot on the left hand lobe. I love the thought that we see Andromeda through a curtain of stars that are entirely within our Milky Way.

The other pic is of me while sketching M8 the following night. It was taken by the hero of Astrofest, Ken Wishaw. Ken picked up the fluffy socks early on in the raffle draw! :) Ken, many thanks for the pic and for taking the socks, :D

Alex.

[MortonH]

Awesome sketch, Alex. :thumbsup:

[multiweb]

+1 That Andromeda sketch looks hot!

[jjjnettie]

An amazing M31 there Alex.:cool:

[Camelopardalis]

Awesome Alex :thumbsup:

[killswitch]

Heres the timelapse of Alex sketching the Lagoon nebula

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQFoM-lJ29I

Also more photos of startrails and the flash bang meteor (behind the trees)

Enjoy :)

[rodroger]

Some Bird shots I took during my stay at this years Astrofest.
:)

http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1334 copy.jpg

http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1335 copy.jpg

http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1337 copy.jpg

http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1338 copy.jpg


http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1339 copy.jpg


http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1353 copy.jpg

http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1365 copy.jpg

http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1383 copy.jpg

http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1385 copy.jpg


http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1388 copy.jpg

http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1421 copy.jpg

http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1429 copy.jpg


http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/IMG_1431 copy.jpg



http://rodroger.com/images/astronomy/astrofest2016/Camp Duckadang 2016 - Loirkeets.jpg

[MortonH]

Now what are those Lorikeets up to??? :lol:

[strongmanmike]

An artist at the eyepiece...a great scope that one too, I recall splendid views through it at SPSP...love this hobby, so diverse :thumbsup:

Mike

[Retrograde]

Great sketch Alex. I remember seeing the original up there and your one of the Helix too. It's an amazing skill to be able to sketch like that at the eyepiece with only a dim red light to work by. Thanks for the views through your excellent scope as well (once I finally got my imaging sequence going).

Nice pics and a cool timelapse too Edison. I remember you taking it as I was set up next to Alex :thumbsup:

[mental4astro]

Thanks guys and gals for the lovely comments, :)

Mike, yes, astro's diversity is something to celebrate, :)

[multiweb]

Nice collection Rod. The ducks shot is pretty cool. :thumbsup:

[RickS]

You made good use of the daytime hours, Rod. Love the bird pics :thumbsup:

[rodroger]

I was next to the tree near the bird feeder and saw what they where up to and could not resist :face: