The current NSW east coast smoke shroud seems to be destroying any useful astronomy pursuits for some time to come. Just how long do you think it will take for the upper atmo to clear the haze? There are some attractive discounts on offer from our biggest retailers, no doubt their business has been stung by the crisis, but I can't bring myself to invest in new EAA equipment if there is little prospect of being able to use it. I checked my observatory mount a few days ago, and despite being closed up tight, with duct tape over the roof opening panels and track, and door jam, and a shroud over the mount itself; there was a fine coating of ash over the mount.
With so-called experts at the Bureau talking about no serious clearing rain till May, I am dismayed (pun intended), about the future of this hobby in this part of the State.
What are your thoughts about our prospect?
