The Next Snake Valley Astro Camp Nov 6-9 2015

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

Hi all
Just a quick note to update you on our next Snake Valley Astro Camp. As you know, traditionally the camps have been held twice a year with 1 in Feb or March and the other usually in November. I am keen to maintain this timing as those times are probably the best for the area as far as a combination of good weather and reasonable daytime temperatures.
This issue that we have encountered is that the new moon in November occurs on Thursday the 12th, which means the weekend either side would be suitable. Unfortunately the weekend of 13/14/15th Nov I cannot do as I have to be in Adelaide and the prior weekend clashes with the VicSouth Star Party near Nhill. We considered October, but again I have prior commitments elsewhere, and September. The issue with September is that the weather is considerably worse that in October or November. There is a reason why the commonest weather at that time of year is known as the “September Gales”.

So after due consideration we have decided to go with the first weekend of November. Although this clashes with VicSouth, I think it still works out best for us for the following reasons

1 The camp has clashed on other occasions
2 Having a camp close to Melbourne offers an alternative for those not keen on the long drive to Nhill
3 Weather

I know this may disappoint some who would like to attend both camps. I certainly don’t see the SV camp as being in competition with VicSouth, I think they actually complement each other. There will be inevitable clashes, as after all there are only 12 or 13 new moons each year.

As always I am happy to discuss this matter with anyone who feels they would like to offer a point of view.

Cheers

Malcolm

[Jen]

Is it November yet

Yep count me in

[Jen]

But I think the Melbourne cup is the weekend before

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

Originally Posted by Jen

But I think the Melbourne cup is the weekend before

You are absolutely correct Jen. Not sure where I got that from, I have corrected the post.

Malcolm

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

One interesting thing I have found out. Moonrise on the Sat morning will be about 5am. When it rises, it will be accompanied by Jupiter, Mars and Venus all very close to it. Should be an interesting sight for any still awake!!

Malcolm

[Jen]

Originally Posted by barx1963

One interesting thing I have found out. Moonrise on the Sat morning will be about 5am. When it rises, it will be accompanied by Jupiter, Mars and Venus all very close to it. Should be an interesting sight for any still awake!!

Malcolm

Cool yep I will still be awake for it

[Greenswale (Wren)]

Bewdy, I'm in, and prepared for purple for the next few months!

[The_bluester (Paul)]

I am really doubtful of being able to make it, but I will see how I go closer to the time.

[Mckechg (Grant)]

IS that the same weekend as Nhil?

g./

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

Grant
Yes, unfortunately it is the same weekend. We tried to work out a way not to clash. The only other possibility was in September which I have since found out would have clashed with an ASV party at Heathcote anyway.
I have spoken to Fraser who is (I understand) the main organiser of the Nhill party to explain and he is OK with it, and was appreciative of the heads up.

Going forward, obviously we hope to not clash with other events but with the number of events on in Vic these days (ASV has 3 Star Parties a year with Messier, Galactic Centre and Star BQ at Heathcote as well as Nhill,then there is Border Stargaze, which is not technically in Vic, but close enough plus 2 SV camps) and with winter being what it is in these Southern climes, some clashes are inevitable.
I know this will disappoint some who would like to go to both but it does happen.

Cheers

Malcolm

[The_bluester (Paul)]

I am getting closer to being able to make this one by the looks of things. Here is hoping for a nice clear weekend.

I will tentatively book myself for a Friday and Saturday night now.

[Jen]

Oh did I say I was going too

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

Hi Guys
I am about to head of OS for a couple of weeks (Hawaii here I come!!) and when I get back I will be getting stuff happening for the camp.
Hope you are able to make it Paul!!

Cheers

Malcolm

[pfitzgerald (Paul)]

Have a great trip Malcolm.

At this stage I'm in.

Paul

[Jen]

Woohooo
Enjoy ya trip Malcolm

[Mckechg (Grant)]

Originally Posted by barx1963

Grant
Yes, unfortunately it is the same weekend. We tried to work out a way not to clash. The only other possibility was in September which I have since found out would have clashed with an ASV party at Heathcote anyway.
I have spoken to Fraser who is (I understand) the main organiser of the Nhill party to explain and he is OK with it, and was appreciative of the heads up.


Malcolm

You guys throw a brilliant Astro Party and I am sure before long other camps will move around you guys.

I know the NEVAS crew are heading to Nhill this weekend. I would have loved to come along.

Hope you guys (and girls - Sorry Jen) have a blast!

Grant

[The_bluester (Paul)]

OK, firm is finally firm!

Before you even start the official thread, chalk me up for the Friday and Saturday nights, inc a cabin. hoping to have at least one other body to share the cabin too over those nights.

[xstream (John)]

Count me in for at least a couple of nights Malcolm.

[Wombat_In_Space (Darren)]

I will be endeavoring to attend this time. but work roster will decide that.

[traveller (Bo)]

Thanks Malcolm and others for keeping this going.
I will contact you closer to the date if see if I can squeeze myself in.
Bo