Bretti 2014

[Allan_L]

At last the weather forecast seems to be improving for Bretti.
Tomorrow (Wednesday) is still a right off (rain).
But it seems set to improve after that.

Packing in progress, plan to head up tomorrow, no set time, but not too early.

[GTB_an_Owl]

hope you can make it Arthur

i'm at the "what have i forgotten to pack" stage

only clothes, pillow and me

what time we leaving in the morning

geoff

[gmbfilter]

Looking good to go Wednesday morning
Leaving whenever I wake

[glend]

Best of luck gents, I will be staying home this time.

[GTB_an_Owl]

oh, thats a shame Glen

geoff

[Camelopardalis]

Any room up there for a little one?

[GTB_an_Owl]

'little one" what Dunk?

geoff

[Camelopardalis]

Me and my little scope?

[GTB_an_Owl]

you will be most welcome Dunk
and i'm sure we can find /leave a spot in the circle for you

geoff

[Camelopardalis]

Great, thanks Geoff! I'll confirm once I've received domestic approval :lol:

Is there mobile phone signal up there? And I'm assuming as there's no running water there's no shower :help:

[Allan_L]

no phone coverage.
only running water is in the two rivers which intersect there.
Welcome aboard.
Bring your gum boots

Re showers:
some people get water from the river and heat it for use in their shower tents.

[GTB_an_Owl]

no phone
bring your own drinking water
water in the river for showers
drop toilets

what days you thinking of coming?

geoff

[Camelopardalis]

Thanks Allan. What are gum boots? :confused2:

[Allan_L]

Wellingtons?
rain boots

[Camelopardalis]

Ah Wellies, OK :lol:

Likely to be that mucky? Won't my tripod sink :confused2:

[Camelopardalis]

Ahhhh that kind of shower :lol:

If I can get thought concurrence, most likely Friday until...? I'd never get my kit sorted otherwise!

[GTB_an_Owl]

depends on how much weight is on it Dunk

if you are worried - bring some timber feet

geoff

[Allan_L]

Not mucky. Ground is good and firm even when wet.
But if grass is a bit long, Wellies come in handy when its wet.

But a ground sheet for the tripod won't go astray too.:thumbsup:

[Camelopardalis]

Only a little C8 :D

[Camelopardalis]

Great, thanks guys, will update when I have news...

[GTB_an_Owl]

this is where we will be

geoff

[Camelopardalis]

Thanks Geoff!

What's the dew situation like there? Any others dare use SCTs there?

[GTB_an_Owl]

bring your dew heaters and shield

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

i'm off
see you all up there

geoff

[Camelopardalis]

Alright, hope to see you all Friday :D

[Arthur Alchin]

There is one small clouds in the sky and the seeing is perfect, sorry guys, wish I'd bought the scope. May not make Bretti, grandson in The Canberra hospital with a fist seizure, Deb gone down, will have to detour via Canberra onthe way home tomorrow.

[Fizics]

Arthur sorry to hear your grandson is not well.
Crystal clear sky in thredbo tonight.

[glend]

Arthur sorry to hear of your grandson's problem, all the best wishes for a speedy recovery.

[AstroJason]

Hi all, hope you don't mind, but I am thinking of coming up along with Dunk tomorrow for a couple days. Cheers

[glend]

Jason there is no phone or internet reception up at Bretti so they won't see your post but I am sure you will be welcome and there is plenty of room.

[AstroJason]

Thanks for the info Glen. On my way up there now. Cheers

[glend]

If you need directions you can ring me, pm sent with number.

[GTB_an_Owl]

would like to thank everyone for making my 5 days away so enjoyable
great to meet and spend time with Duncan and Jason for the first time and thankful that Bretti finally turned on a clear nite for them on the Sunday

my rebuilt base and upgrades to my 8" Dob look like it was worth the time and money spent. very happy with the results of getting my primary recoated by Saintech

of course the weather allowed for a few group meeting to sample and review a few beers, bottles of port, rum and whiskey

looking forward to the next trip allready

geoff

[Camelopardalis]

Likewise Geoff, I had a great time so thanks to everyone for welcoming us "under the tarp" :thumbsup:

[Allan_L]

Glad you guys got a good night on Sunday.
The sacrificial lamb thing (of early leavers) usually works!

I enjoyed the break and all of your company.
Until next time.:hi:

[Allan]

Chaffey Dam was great, not a cloud in the sky from Thursday afternoon. I had 4 good nights of observing and nearly 30 hours of eyepiece time. SQM peaked around 21.77 all nights except Saturday which was 21.62 for some reason, and the sky that night did look brighter than the other nights.

Now that the Hunter Expressway is finished and the road to Nundle is sealed the drive up was quite good. It took me exactly one hour longer to get there than Bretti. The place was deserted, and I had a long hot shower everyday. I can see myself spending more time there, especially when the weather on the coast clouds Bretti out.

[Allan]

BTW, Geoff it got down to about 2 or 3 degrees every night, but I was toasty warm inside the new suit. In the past I would sometimes go to bed when I got too cold, but the suit has fixed that problem, I love it. Thanks again

[AstroJason]

Many thanks to everyone for welcoming Duncan and I and helping us set up our tents on arrival to beat that rain! Also thanks to Allan for inviting us to watch some footy on his TV. Had a great time up there and the site was super dark, not a light dome could be seen in any direction. I now believe in that sacrificial lamb thing as the sky was fantastic that night, sorry you guys missed out on it. My head hit the pillow at 6am that morning but with cloud expected for Monday night and only about 2 hours of sleep I was ready to head home.

Chaffey Dam sounds really good and I am keen to check it out some time in the future, sounds like its worth the extra hour drive just for the hot showers.

Thanks again all, looking forward to heading out there again some time.

Jason

[glend]

Dam Allan, sounds like a great four nights, wish I could have made it. Did you get to see the Comet Siding Springs transit in front of the SMC (on a path right adjacent to NGC362 and 47TUC)? I was setup to try and image it but the cloud on the coast killed that idea. BTW that same comet is the one expected to pass really close to Mars on the 19th of October (like near miss close, 1/3 the distance between the earth and moon close) - I would like to be at a dark site for that.

[Allan]

G'day Glen. Yes I checked in on the comet every night. It was moving very fast so I would go back to it every hour and see it had moved. Under the dark skies it looked quite bright with a nice little tail. I did see it pass those big bright globulars in the SMC and that was a nice sight.

[GTB_an_Owl]

yes Allan - you have to wonder how you ever enjoyed observing without one!

glad you had a good trip away

geoff

[glend]

I want to point out that it's less than three weeks till the Spring Equinox (on the 23rd) and the New Moon (24th). Is there any interest in a short Dark Site trip during that period, mid-week is obviously best given the dates?

Hopefully the series of east coast lows will be over by then.

[AstroJason]

Hey Glen, I am keen for a mid week trip. I'd be free from around the 22nd to 25th.

[Allan_L]

September 22 to 25 suits me too. :2thumbs:

[Fizics]

Which site Glen Bretti or Chaffey?
I should be able to make it for the 24th and 25th.
Given Allan's report re Chaffey skies that might be the better option. There is the added benefit of mobile phone contact so early birds can report conditions :)

[AstroJason]

That's a good point, I'm interested to check Chaffey out if others are, another plus are the showers.

[Camelopardalis]

I haven't raised the subject yet let alone got any leash loosening approved, but I'd be curious about Chaffey, as it's different, and has showers :lol:

[GTB_an_Owl]

where are the PICS people?

geoff

[Inmykombi]

The few pics I took are still in my camera. I have been thrust back into a busy work week and need some time to post a few. Soon I hope.

[Camelopardalis]

Mine all came out crap :sadeyes: but AstroJason has posted a couple of crackers in Deep Space and Nightscapes :thumbsup:

[GTB_an_Owl]

i meant shots of the camp and surrounds Duncan

geoff

[gmbfilter]

A couple of Geoff's

[jakob]

Here are some! :welcome:

[jakob]

And some more:

[GTB_an_Owl]

thats more like it

geoff

[Camelopardalis]

Ahhhh daytime, is that what it looked like :lol:

[GTB_an_Owl]

hope you all realize - school holidays from the 19th Sep to 7th Oct

geoff

[Allan_L]

Glen/Allan:
What are the comparable Sky Quality Meter readings for these sites?

And which site will be more adversely affected by school holidays do you think?

Hmmm! tough decision, but at least the weather is showing signs of improvement.

[glend]

On good nights the sky quality meter readings are very similar at 21.7+. In terms of school holidays, I am sure we were at Bretti during at least one school holiday prriod last year, when the kids came around to look at the scopes but maybe that was a weekend. Bretti dorsn't really have attractions for a family holiday but Lake Chaffey does including fishing, proximity to Tamworth, and hot showers (a big draw card with the ladies I would imagine, not to mention proper toilets).

At Bretti your more likely to have grey nomads and generally they avoid school holiday periods. People may camp at Bretti ging to or from holiday points but I can't ever recall a crowd issues. At Chaffey its a massive area so even crowded it will only show it at the facilities. Both are pet friendly. There can be a slight sky glow at Chaffey from Tamworth to the northwest.

I should point out that my daughter is about to have her first child and my first grand-child, and she will be about a week away from her due date during the Sept new moon; meaning that if she delivers early I will be going to Sydney. It would be nice to have mobile coverage which Chaffey has but Bretti doesn't but Bretti is closer.

They are both nice places but I tend to favour Bretti for a short few days mid-week around the new moon, but that's just me in my situation this time around.

[Allan]

Allan, I pretty much agree with what Glen said. I did a bit of reflecting after my last trip to Chaffey Dam. While Chaffey Dam and Bretti both have SQM approaching 21.8, that can be a bit miss leading. I think the light dome from Tamworth and the reflection that comes from the water off the dam makes Chaffey seem a bit brighter than Bretti. So Bretti is still my pick for the darkest skies I have observed from over the last 2 years.

But I found 5 days at Chaffey easy to do because of the showers, I can't do that at Bretti. So for me, I will stick to Bretti for 2 or 3 days, but Chaffey for longer trips. Over school holidays Bretti is the easy choice as I think Chaffey would be crazy busy.

[GTB_an_Owl]

1 x shower tent - 1 x 12v shower pump - 1 x bucket
boil 2 billies of water
add cold water to suit

thats all you need

I know 2 Geoffs that take shower tents if you don't have your own

geoff

[glend]

So in a couple of weeks there is a possible Equinox New Moon trip to Bretti (logically mid-week 23-25 Sept), which has been discussed previously. Then the next obvious time would be the October New Moon period which falls on Friday the 24th of October - making a long weekend (or longer) a good option for some. The October New Moon period will be outside of the NSW school holiday period, which should mean less people anywhere. I am mentioning that now as some people will need time to make plans if they want to do something around those dates.

Beyond October it may get too hot and the holiday season in December is pretty much out of the question. So the next couple of New Moons represent the best chance to get out there and enjoy a dark site adventure in 2014. :welcome:

[Rick Petrie]

It looks like we can get away on the 24th September and maybe looking to go to Bretti for a few days.
We are meeting my Grandaughter halfway to Manilla which is near Tamworth to bring her home for part of the school holidays, and Bretti is about halfway.
We also may be picking up the new caravan next week and would like to take it for a test run and Bretti would be an ideal place.
So who else is likely to go that week as previously discussed, as it would be nice to catch up with a few of you all?
Hope the weather plays fair!

[Allan_L]

Hi Rick,
I am planning on something like 22-26 September.
New Caravan?
Watch out for those sneaky picnic tables this time! :)

[glend]

Rick I am planning on being at Bretti from the afternoon of the 22nd through the night of the 24th. I might be able to stay longer but it will depend on my daughter holding on to her baby abit longer ( I will need to check in by phone).
New caravan eh, gee the old one was pretty nice, what kind is it?

[Camelopardalis]

If I can get a get out of jail free pass I'll come up for a few nights...and colour the air with the sound of drift aligning :lol:

[Rick Petrie]

Yes Al I will be super careful that they don't jump out at me again.:P



Crusader custom built.:)

Good to see a few of you guys coming.:thumbsup:

[GTB_an_Owl]

fitted with reversing cameras i expect Rick ;)

geoff

[Rick Petrie]

Spot on. :lol:

[gmbfilter]

I'm trying for the 22-25 myself

[glend]

I was speaking to Scott (Skullmurphy) yesterday and advised him of the dates - he will see if he can come along as well. He has an Orion XXGT14" I think.

[Allan]

I still remember setting up my telescope in the twilight and hearing a loud crunch coming from the picnic table, and looking up and seeing all these dark shadows had merged.

I am 99% sure I will be working this new moon. But I have a week off starting the 25th of October which is around the next new moon. I will be getting in 4 or 5 days away for that.

[Camelopardalis]

Yeti eats dinner at the picnic table :help:

[Arthur Alchin]

Will be tryin for a week away in November, crossing fingers now

Addition: it looks like I have been lucky and got the new moon week off in November, so I guess it's Bretti here I come ������

[glend]

Just one week until the next New Moon and warm weather predicted for next week at Bretti this may prove to be a great dark site opportunity - we certainly deserve it after a disappointing winter. Get your gear dusted off and join us. :eyepop:

[killswitch]

Looks like ill be attending with Jase and Dunk next week. Looking forward to it!

[glend]

Excellent Edison, looking forward to seeing you guys.

[glend]

I am aiming to head up to Bretti on Tuesday morning. I think there was at least one going up on Monday is that right (gmbfilter)?

Rick? Allan-L? Jason? Dunk? Fizics? etc

The first one in will have to recon the situation re the usual spot. I am happy enough out in the middle if required.

[Allan_L]

Already started packing.
I expect to head up there Late Monday or early Tuesday.
But taking it as it comes.

[Allan]

Have fun Glen, Allan, etc. Seems a while now since I last caught up. I am working this time, but have the October new moon off, so will spend some time at Bretti for that one. Happy comet chasing

[Rick Petrie]

I will be heading up on Wednesday morning early so save me a good spot for my caravan you guys.:lol:

[gmbfilter]

I might not be able to get away at all I won't know until Monday

[Fizics]

At this moment I plan to arrive Wednesday but might have to pull out of this one.:( Should know by Tuesday.

[Camelopardalis]

I think we're planning on heading up Monday afternoon...although the forecast suggests a chance of meatballs!

[glend]

Allan_L I should be ready to go by noon Monday (tomorrow) so if there are others going tomorrow I'll go then as well. Let me know if your heading up tomorrow.
It looks like the four day weather chart is going to give us some great nights!

[AstroJason]

Yeah looking forward to getting there tomorrow arvo, see you guys there.

[Allan_L]

Yes Glen,
As discussed subsequently, expect to leave Wyong about 1pm.
Travelling on UHF channel 18.

Yes, Some Clear nights in the short-term forecast, but Wednesday looks to be the best of them currently.

Just finished my Mr Owl pivoting Hand Controller pad modification, cheap as chips and works a treat, thanks for the info Geoff. :thumbsup:

[GTB_an_Owl]

your welcome Allan
bunnings to the rescue again

geoff

[jakob]

I'm not sure.
Would love to come, but have to see?

[glend]

I'm about to head off to Bretti, will be trying to link up with Allan_L on the way. If you have some free time it's a great time of year to come to Bretti for the Spring Equinox New Moon!

Hope things work out for you Jakob.:thumbsup:

[Allan_L]

Just about to leave.
Have to stop off to pick up Apple Charlotte on the way.
Should be there before 5pm.

hope there is some leftover for late comers.

[Inmykombi]

Have fun everyone. Work is flat out again, so it's a no go for me. Enjoy and post loads of photos. Rgds Geoffro.

[Arthur Alchin]

Can't make this one, will make the november one though

[Camelopardalis]

For anyone joining us this week, we're on the upper level (turn right before the fancy toilet block) and we're parked at the end :)

[GTB_an_Owl]

leaving around 1pm

geoff

[Fizics]

Confused....Do not recall a right hand turn before the fancy toilet block ....unless you you mean the old pit at the far end.

[glend]

A quick report on conditions at Bretti over this past New Moon. Allan_L and I went up on Monday and found Sydney guys (Jason, Dunk and Edison) already there. It was very crowded (school holidays no surprise there), and our usual spot was occupied by a large group - complete with their own pavilion, bon fire pile, pumped water from the river, and far to many area lights. The Sydney boys, having arrived first, decided to setup in the area now referred to as Bretti Heights (the southern ridge flat above the valley floor).

Conditions were somewhat impacted by the large crowd, and their lights. However, up on Bretti Heights, we had pretty good seeing on Monday night until the strata layers of fog started to settle. I forgot to take a SQM reading this night. The valley floor camper lights were mainly shutown by midnight. At a guess it was not as good as Tuesday night but useful none the less.

Tueday, Geoff arrived, and that night was easily the best of the three, with a SQM reading of 21.71 and no fog or cloud and we were all still going at 1:30am looking at Andromeda and Orion. A lot of imaging going on and Allan-L was getting through his observation list.

On Wednesday John (fizics) arrived at Bretti Height and Rick and Lynn on the valley floor (their van could not get up to Bretti Heights, and they had other people joining them). Rick wandered up for a session with us that night. SQM reading was 21.43 . The night activites were cut short by cloud that built in from the west and rain was forecast, so by 11pm most of us had packed it in (and packed up gear in anticipation of rain). The rain started early in the AM ( I heard it at 4:30am). The rain was well set in by dawn and everyone except Geoff packed up and headed home. Geoff was going to stay until the weekend, and Rick was going to be around as well.

So Tueday was the Best Night and well worth the trip. Hopefully someone will post up a photo of Bretti Heights for future reference.

Thank to Allan_L for the Apple Charlotte and the memorable Port, and to Geoff for making his electric pump shower tent available to the attendees.

Until next time.

[Camelopardalis]

I'll second that Glen, good to meet those I hadn't before and much appreciation to everyone for sharing their company, solid and liquid nutritional supplements (mmmmmm), humanising facilities, views and...last but not least...shovels :thumbsup:

I didn't manage to get any shots of Bretti Heights myself, but plenty of shots from Bretti Heights :D for those of us from the white light districts it's quite some sky to behold. On the Tuesday night several of us took full advantage of the conditions before heading for slumber while the birds tweeted. It was fascinating watching the fog roll around and over us, while the targets stayed clear and bright!

[Fizics]

So that right hand turn before the dunny does exist.....thanks for the posting the directions Dunk otherwise would have been scratching my head on how to get to the exclusive Bretti heights where cow dung and scope happily coexist.
Good to meet the guys from the city. If only that rain would not follow my scope around!
Hey where's my mention Glen:question:

[glend]

Sorry John, how could I forget you, I blame exhaustion. I have updated the last post.

[Allan_L]

Some quick snaps of the camp and surrounds

The first two are of our regular spot, which was overrun by a Newcastle holiday group.

3. is the "Fancy New Toilet Block" which is situated near the entrance road into camp

4. Is the good track to Bretti heights (the "right turn before the new toilets") Suitable for caravans despite Rick's hesitation.

5. 6. The view of Bretti heights from the lower level (base camp). Note the 4WD track - not recommended!

7. Happy Astro campers

8. Cow-lateral Damage : Glen was unlucky enough to find a battle scar (dents) from nocturnal grass munchers Vs parked car.

[Allan_L]

The boys...

and the happy looking one is Chloe ;)

[killswitch]

Had a great time at Bretti. The company was great and the sky was amazing, no skyglow at all. Hope to be back there soon.

Heres some photos i took:

[jakob]

Sorry that I missed out.
To make up for it,I'm spending two nights at wiruna.
But it's bloody cold!
Thx for the pix.

[AstroJason]

Great photos Allan and Ed. Love the "action" shot of the cows mate haha. Nice report on the conditions Glen. I really enjoyed meeting and catching up with everyone. Allan, thanks for that slice of that Apple Charlotte, I didn't think an apple pie could get any better but gee that icing topping hit the spot! As did the Bunnings Port!

Hope to get back up there soon.

[GTB_an_Owl]

first 8

first pic - collecting rain water off tarp

[GTB_an_Owl]

2nd eight

first pic - somebody pinched the rope swing off the tree

[GTB_an_Owl]

3rd eight pics

some people missed out on the mini apple charlottes i prepared :P

they were very nice while watching the football on friday nite :D

[GTB_an_Owl]

set of 5 pics

note:- the observatory was transformed into a verandah in first pic

[GTB_an_Owl]

last 4 pics

pic 3 and 4 is a big rig(bus) leaving towing a trailer with a Ute and boat on top - what would be the fuel cost to run that!

[jakob]

Geoff, Thx for all the nice pix.
View from Bretti Heights much better than from Bretti-riverview!
You are turning into quit a photographer, Thanks.

[GTB_an_Owl]

only my phone camera Jakob

and i have doubled up on a couple i think

in too much of a hurry to post them up

geoff

[glend]

The next New Moon will be on Friday the 24th of October, making a long weekend dark site trip a possibility for those that cannot get away at other times. There is very little lunar interference from Wednesday the 22nd through Sunday the 26th. I should point out that it is outside of school holiday time so only a few grey nomads should be about at Bretti.

All are welcome, so check out the photos of the site from the last trip (in the most recent previous posts) and let us know if your interested (or just turn up).

[Arthur Alchin]

Wishi could make it but november Bretti is my chance to get away. Leaving monday 17th back home sunday 24 th, now tha a good break. Hope to see a few there, otherwise will have the universe to myself :lol:

[Allan]

Bundy and I will be at Bretti from the 25th for 3 or 4 days.

Coming back from LA yesterday I flew over Chaffey Dam. I could see our little spot next to the water, but was amazed at how close Tamworth was, just a couple of hills away. No wonder we see that light dome. A little bit further down the road I flew over the Parks radio telescope as well.

[glend]

My car is at the panel beaters for the next couple of days to repair the "cow damage". Luckily it can just be 'pulled' out and touched up, and the cost is less than my insurance excess so I'm paying.

Do not let this deter you from attending Bretti, nothing like that has happen before, I believe I was setup too close to the cow's gate where they congregate to move from Bretti Heights to Upper Bretti. Geoff had the right idea by rigging ropes to guide the cows away from his van. All good.:lol:

[GTB_an_Owl]

Glen, those cows belong to the property over the western side of the river - not the northern (where we normally camp)

no matter - think you were unlucky in what happened
glad it wasn't too dear to have fixed

geoff

[glend]

Yes Geoff I know the farmer rotates them around the various paddocks and usually they have been in another area. I think he should have moved them out of the Bretti Reserve camping area for the school holiday period. I'm not put off at all.

[GTB_an_Owl]

two different farmers i think Glen

cows on the reserve belong to the farm over the crossing near the new toilet at the bottom of the entrance

"Tinkerbells" mob belong to the farm over the crossing where we normally camp

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

and yes you are correct
i too believe they should have been moved out for the school holidays

geoff

[glend]

The large light pollution map is available here:

http://www.lightpollutionmap.info/#zoom=4&lat=5759860&lon=1619364&layers=B0TFFFTT

If you move over to the east coast of Australia and zoom in you can check out your local light pollution situation (mine is green) and then move over to Bretti and check it out. As a comparison you can also look at Lake Chaffey near Tamworth, Lostock, and other potential dark sites like the Pony Club at Mangrove Mountain, and the Katoomba site. It doesn't give you a picture of the effect of near by skyglow sources but you can work that out from the overhead view.

It's pretty clear that Bretti is dark.:thumbsup:

[glend]

Only two weeks to go to the next New Moon period and Bretti is a wonderful spot to enjoy dark skies with fellow IIS members. Check out the photos posted up by Astro Jason and Dunk and get organsed to come along.

[uwahl]

I am going to try to make it to Bretti around the next new moon for my first visit

[glend]

Excellent news Ulrich, if you need any information about the site etc just drop me a PM here.

[glend]

Bretti is a great dark site for visual observation and imaging, but obviously imagers (and goto visual guys) need to ensure that they have adequate power for the various systems they need. Bretti has no AC power, its a free camp reserve and you will need to bring your power with you. Generators are allowed but respect others, use sound baffles to direct the sound away from other people, and don't plan on running them all night (they are great for topping up your battery/ies). Adequate battery Amp/hrs can run a mount all night, and with an inverter can take care of most laptop system requirements. The sun is always there in the daytime so solar charging is used by many of the regulars.

Imaging has been going on at Bretti for some time now, with Jakob the first that I know of to start imaging there. I have been imaging on the site for at least six months and Astro Jason, Dunk, and Edison more recently. Everyone is welcome.

[Camelopardalis]

Yes, definitely nice and dark :thumbsup: you only need to see AstroJason's images of Andromeda+Pinwheel or Good bye Milky Way to see how the horizon is...

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=125688

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=125893

[glend]

Just ten days until the next New Moon long week-end at Bretti. Check out Bretti on the light pollution map:

http://www.lightpollutionmap.info/

Just drag the map (which opens in europe) over to Australia and zoom in on the east coast, you will find Bretti just northwest of Gloucester NSW. It is DARK!
Compare that to where you live. It's well worth the drive to see what your scope is really capable of showing you.:eyepop:

Dust off your gear and join us for the New Moon period.

[Camelopardalis]

Sadly for me chaps, I won't be able to make it this month due to visiting family that aren't sold on the waste disposal facilities :lol:

Hope you have clear nights :thumbsup:

[AstroJason]

I am still unsure if I will be able to make this one as well. I am hoping too but I will be able to make the call next week.

That light pollution map is great Glen, I have centred Bretti in this map here for easy reference. (http://www.lightpollutionmap.info/#zoom=11&lat=-3736014.12193&lon=16911646.5496&layers=B0TFFFTT) It really does prove how dark it is up there!

[Arthur Alchin]

The november one is looking good

[uwahl]

Unless it is pouring I will get to Bretti about lunch on the 24th and stay for 4 to 5 days.

I have a quiet generator that I hope to run every afternoon (3.2 kW) - anyone is welcome to charge their batteries if needed.

If anyone is coming who has experience in CCD imaging I might be bending your ear - I have read a lot but am inexperienced in practice.

I am really looking forward to it.:)

[killswitch]

I dont think ill be able to make it this month, although im keen for next month.

[glend]

Just one week to the New Moon period and Bretti s a great dark site to enjoy weekend or long weekend, and no city skyglow. With the rain gone the forecast looks promising, and no school holiday crowds. Going back through the posts it looks like Allan, Ulrich, John (fizics), Geoff (Owl). myself, and maybe's: Allan_L, Skullmurphy, and Astrojason at this point. Plenty of room for many more.

[GTB_an_Owl]

i'm a chance thursday through monday Glen - pack up tuesday morning and come home for tennis on wednesday night

geoff

[glend]

Thanks Geoff, I have put you on the list in my last post.

[Arthur Alchin]

Will be at Bretti from the 17th till the 23rd November at this stage (with bells on :lol:)

[killswitch]

Heres a GIF of Andromeda rising over the hill (7MB):

http://db.tt/3GLe6l87

[Allan]

That's really cool Edison. Was that using your ED100? And what camera?

[killswitch]

Thanks, i used a 70-200mm f2.8 lens on a D800 (200mm f3.2 100sec)

[Fizics]

Am I correct in understanding that 3 or 4 are heading to Bretti from Friday 24th? Is anyone going Wednesday?

[GTB_an_Owl]

maybe thursday for me John - depending on the weather forecast

geoff

[glend]

John and Geoff, et al, I just had a look at the 4-day weather chart released by the Bureau covering up to Friday night (10pm) and it doesn't look too good for Thursday and Friday - showing the now all too familiar coastal rain hashing. The question will be how far down the coast and inland does that extend and will the system change by the end of the week. Right now is actually the best time from a waning and late rising lunar influence point of view, I was out last night until 2am and the seeing was very good at my place. As we get into the weekend the moon will be setting later and later and starting to cut into the observation time.

I can't go up on Wednesday John, but if it's clear that night as the chart indicates then I will try to do some imaging from home.

I am waiting to see what happens later this week but it doesn't look too promising. I think Allan was going up on Saturday or Sunday, certainly it may be great by then but the moon will be stepping on most of the dark up until midnight by then.

[GTB_an_Owl]

so WHO plans on going and WHEN
c'mon - put your hands up!

forget the weather reports and just bring plenty of port in case

geoff

[Fizics]

Could have gone for Weds & Thursday nights but can't do weekend. So I am out for this one. Thanks guys hope weekend skies are kind for you.

Ps: trying to get a new home phone line proves to be very difficult for the telco. They have been pulling wires in the street since last week trying to get one for me ....now they talk about digging up the road to fix it.:help:

[uwahl]

I will come. Definitely be there on Fri but may be able to come a day earlier if all goes well.:thumbsup:

[Allan_L]

Like John, I was planning on going up Wednesday (still hopefully checking the 7timer reports three times a day :help:).
Originally planned on coming home Saturday, as Jo put in for annual leave (and NO! she is not interested in Astro-Camps). But that is up in the air now as she has had her roster changed due to work incompetence. Still awaiting outcome of that one.

But "... Plenty of Port in Cases" ... sounds alluring... :) ... (...shame the weather doesn't ... :( )

I hate to put a negative note on it, but how can you be enthused by this:

[glend]

I just had a look this morning and the forecast depending which source you look at is actually looking very good for Saturday and Sunday - in agreement with the chart Allan_L just posted. Have a look at the seven day forecast for Scone (ok I know not that close but more relevant than Taree in my opinion because it's about the same distance from the coast):

http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/forecasts/scone.shtml

And the Gloucester extended forecast from Accuweather here:

http://www.accuweather.com/en/au/gloucester/13014/daily-weather-forecast/13014

A new set of BOM forecast charts will come out this afternoon, which will cover up to Saturday.

My plan at this point is to go up on Friday and stay as long as the weather permits. I will bring a bottle of port Geoff.

[Allan]

I will be there sometime Saturday. Weather should be great for observing and I plan on staying for a few days. Moon sets an hour after the sun on Saturday and two hours after on Sunday. So not much of a problem and let's me do a bit of lunar observing at the start of the night.

[glend]

Just checked the updated four-day charts from the BOM, and there doesn't appear to be any serious impediment to a good weekend at Bretti. Checked three other sources, Weatherzone, Accuweather, etc and all three showed Gloucester as sunny on Saturday and Sunday - and rather warm (30s).

I've pre-packed the camper and will head out on Friday unless its pouring, in which case I will wait alittle but still plan on going.

Allan_L any update from 7-timer?

[GTB_an_Owl]

check for yourself on my weather site Glen

http://weather.gtbonline.com.au/

bretti has been fluctuating daily

geoff

[Allan_L]

not happy !
:cloudy:

[uwahl]

I will be there tomorrow some time after lunch. I take it you all park down the end of the bottom track?? (see attached)

[glend]

Yes, there is a picnic table down at the far eastern end on the little bluff overlooking the river. We usually camp to the right of that in ths flat area. There is a drop toilet down there you want to be on the river side of that and behind the rubbsh bin line. Its not usually occupied down there as the grey nomads like the river side on the north under the trees. One suggestion, try to get in between the two stands of trees , one to the north and one to the south east but they may have been cut down recently. Hope its clear for you tomorrow night. I'll be there Friday.

[AstroJason]

I can't make this month, too many things on that I can't get out of. Hope you guys get clear skies and have a great time.

Jason

[GTB_an_Owl]

i hope to leave about 8am in the morning

geoff

[Arthur Alchin]

What wrong Allan, is all ok???

[Arthur Alchin]

Have a great weekend,and good viewing.

My time is i four week :lol:

[Allan_L]

just weather
and whether

[GTB_an_Owl]

leaving now - 9-30am

geoff

[Allan_L]

I will not be able to make it this trip.
Sorry.
Too many other distractions (obligations) to attend to here.
And with the weather uncertain, it is hardly worth losing brownie points over.
:innocent:
al

[glend]

I had planned to leave for Bretti today but that is now on hold pending a more encouraging report from the Gloucester Visitors Centre.

[Allan]

Moving to plan B. I just checked the aviation weather forecasts for Taree and Tamworth. Bretti still looks average but Chaffey Dam is fine. I would prefer an extra hour drive for the certainty of clear skies, so I am going to head for Chaffey Dam tomorrow afternoon so I can set up a few hours before dark.

If the Bretti weather changes tomorrow I will go there as originally planned.

[Allan]

The weather in Newcastle tonight is full overcast and rain, with the trend spreading up the coast. Looks like inland is the place to be again, away from the coastal weather.

As much as I want to go to Bretti, and catch up with the guys there, I don't like camping enough to go there and risk not being able to do any observing.

So I am going to head off to Chaffey Dam in an hour or so for 3 nights. It's only 1 hour extra drive than Bretti if anyone's keen.

[glend]

Allan I will be staying home as the weather has me beat. Even if it is clear at Bretti tonight I am not prepared to suffer through another 36+C day up there, just geting too old for that. Good luck at Chaffey, and we'll catch up another time.

[Allan]

Hi Glen. I was just leaving and thought I would check the forecast again and they have all been amended. Bretti is looking fine now so I am going to head there after all. I hear what you are saying about the temperature, that's why I am leaving a bit later so I can setup when it starts cooling off. Might have to sit in the creek tomorrow with Bundy.

[Allan]

I should have stuck with plan B! Drove to Bretti Saturday afternoon, a thunderstorm went through and the sky almost completely cleared at sunset, for about 30 minutes. Then the clouds rolled in again for full overcast almost all night.

I decided to pack up and left for Chaffey Dam at about 7am. It was a pretty amazing 2 hour drive through some of the back roads. The whole place at Chaffey Dam was covered in prickles, so I camped right on the waters edge which was clear, so Bundy wouldn't get covered in the prickles.

Sky was perfectly clear and very transparent. Started alignment in the twilight and had such a great night using both my telescopes. The night passed so quick and I was shocked when I noticed the sun starting to come up.

Grabbed a few hours sleep and packed up. I think they were forecasting close to 40 degrees there today which is just a bit too hot for Bundy and I.

Geoff and Ulrich, sorry I didn't get to say good bye. I was crashing around packing up hoping to wake you guys to let you know I was leaving, but maybe you were having a port induced sleep in. :D

[uwahl]

I thought you may have left for Chaffey, Alan. Bretti was totally clear that night as well. High transparency but the air was unsteady with much twinkling of stars. The daytime heat at Bretti really knocks the stuffing out of you. I won't be back til March next year.

My second real outing with all my gear and I learned that my polar alignments leave much to be desired - time to learn drifting!. The optics were great with gorgeous views of 47 Tuc and the Orion nebula. The 40 mm Paragon recently acquired from MortonH was an excellent match for the F8 Meade and the 13 mm Ethos was spectacular when unleashed.

Last night was largely clouded out until after midnight. I went to bed before then but Geoff persisted until the early hours and was rewarded with clear sky.

[GTB_an_Owl]

was great to meet Ulrich and share the new moon and a few bottles of port with him.

despite the mixed bag of heat, wind and cloud, we managed a couple of observing sessions that made the trip worthwhile.
we witnessed some amazing light shows as the evening storms passed around us.
the camp ground proved a popular spot as people started arriving quite early on friday morning.
Ulrich and i placed items covered with blue tarps around our area to reserve spots for those of our group who were yet to arrive. at least we saved room for Allan and Bundy to stay the night.

given the conditions encounted this month, i think november will be just too hot to handle.

geoff

[glend]

Sorry Geoff, I had intended to come up but I've been there a couple time in really hot conditions (as have you) and coud not face another one given the marginal sky possbilies as well.

As to November, your probably right it maybe hot, but then again it could fall in a cool period. I know Arthur is planning on going. I've given up spuiking the next great trip to Bretti and won't be starting up a Bretti 2015 thread, it needs a new touch. I was glad that we were able to get four new Bretti breathern along this year: Ulrich, Edison, Dunk, and Astrojason. I will attend when I can .

[Allan_L]

Keep the faith guys.
Bretti is the best dark sky within reach of Sydney, bar none (on a good night).
I am sorry that I was not able to make it this month, at least for a couple of daze (pun intended).
And...
I am not ruling out November.
But, will take it as it comes, Assess, and Act.

[Allan]

I agree with you Allan, the sky at Bretti has a special darkness. Indeed the whole place just feels dark especially when Sagittarius sets. The SQM at Chaffey is almost the same, so the sky is about as dark as Bretti, but the environment there is a fair bit brighter.

I will keep the faith that November will be ok. A mates 8 year old has her birthday late November and she has never had a hot birthday in her life.

I will be there with Bundy if the weather is good.

[AstroJason]

Nice to hear you guys got a couple good nights. Sounds like you braved some searing heat during the day too. Hoping November will fit in with my plans better than October did. But like Allan said, I too will need to take it as it comes.

Cheers,

Jason

[Arthur Alchin]

Have every intention of hitting Bretti on the 17th of November for the week. Let's see what the weather has installed for us

[killswitch]

Im thinking 20-25th this month, if weather looks favorable.

Might need to camp under the shade of trees to avoid the heat. Jumping in river was a good way to cool down and refresh.

[uwahl]

I know I said I would not be back til March next year but IF the weather is reasonable (ie not a heat wave) I may come back in November. I find the very hot weather difficult even when I have a cool creek to jump in to.

[Arthur Alchin]

I will be setup as close to the little manning causway rather than the Barnard river one.

I think Glen will be up on Bretti heights for those interested in imaging.

[Allan_L]

Without wishing to hijack this thread,
I just read about this Free Camping place

Greens Point Camping Area


http://www.caravancaravan.com.au/entity/greens-point-camping-area/NSW

I haven't been there yet, but it sounds promising.
Very similar to Bretti, but over the mountains a bit.
Near Sofala I believe.

Anyone got any lowdown on this?

May be worth a reconnaissance trip.

Allan

[glend]

Allan I was there years ago on a 4WD trip. Rather than talk about it here I have sent you a PM with the details.

[Camelopardalis]

Looks like a similar part of the world as the society site. Assuming so, there's a small light dome from Bathurst but other than that it should be good. From Sydney, slightly shorter travel time but not much in it. The advantage of being the other side of the mountains is it seems to be less subject to the coastal rain that seems to flip a coin for Bretti.

[Allan_L]

Hi Arthur,
Being that The Little Manning is the river we normally camp next to (The bigger one, along the stand of trees, being the Barnard) I am a little confused.
Being that you will be bringing a social group (nurses?), do you mean that you intend to camp closer to the new "FANCY" Toilet Block?

Not sure I can make it this month, due to unexpected, poorly timed, potential clash of events. (To be addressed). But I was considering camping on the heights, but also much closer to the new toilet block.

[Arthur Alchin]

The low flat area near the old toilet block where the little manning, will probably be 3-4 non astronomers only who know the night rules.

Unfortunately I think for me the meaning of the camp with it exciting lead up has changed significantly enough for me to go my own way after this venture.

Catch you soon, take care

Arthur

[GTB_an_Owl]

for those that use my 7Timer links

i have redone them to reflect the base IP address so that they now no longer rely on a DNS server for resolution

geoff

[Arthur Alchin]

Thanks for that Geoff, much appreciated

[GTB_an_Owl]

no worries Arthur

i was sick and tired of seeing the "image tag"

sure takes them a long time to fix their/his website when something goes wrong

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

given that i spent over $300 on the last trip to bretti, the wife says i am grounded this month

sorry Arthur

geoff

[glend]

Whew, it's hot - exactly the kind of day you don't want to spend sitting at Bretti trying to stay cool. Hopefully, this will pass this weekend and next weekend (the New Moon) will be nice and cool.

:wink2:

[Allan]

Wow, just checked the forecast for the coming week. If those end of week temperatures are correct, I know what I will, or should I say, will not be doing. I'll have to settle for backyard observing, which sadly is just not the same.

[Allan_L]

Well, I still plan on heading up tomorrow (Monday 17) afternoon.
Seems early in the week may be best.
And the moon is not up until well after midnight.
After that, it is a day by day thing.
Looking for some company :poke:

[Allan]

Allan, I see the temperature is not too bad there now. I'm in London at the moment and don't get home until Wednesday when the heat wave starts. Just unfortunate timing for me. Hope you get in some good observing though.

[glend]

I did not think you were going this time Allan (L). Arthur should be there from tomorrow according to previous advice. My new scope isn't finished yet so I was planning on next weekend, when it should be ready, but if its hot I will probably just stay home.

I hope the coming days are good for those going early in the week.

[Fizics]

Will be heading up tomorrow too.

[Allan_L]

Cool John!
Tomorrow night's forecast is promising.
I may see you on the road.
I plan to leave Wyong Shire just after 12.
Travelling on UHF Channel 18.

al

[AstroJason]

I won't be able to make this one this week guys. I may possibly head up there next week though. Hope you get clear skies and days that aren't too hot.

Cheers,

Jason

[Fizics]

Jason,
I bought the 10" Skywatcher just like yours so looking forward to trying at Bretti this week. Leaving soon.

[AstroJason]

Nice one John, hope you get many hours of enjoyment using it. It's a great little scope.

[killswitch]

Doesnt look like i can make it this week either :( got a injured lateral meniscus from running. Doc says i have to take it easy, might go Katoomba instead.

[AstroJason]

Not good Ed, I am thinking of heading to Bretti some time next week if I am free. Hopefully if you're feeling better by then you can take some time off and join me?

[glend]

Jason what days are you thinking of next week? I think Allan was planing on heading up there on Saturday (but the weather looks rather suspect). My plans to go up this Friday looks doubtful now due to the weather forecast and some remaining work to do on the new scope - next week might suit me better.

Whoops, I just checked the extended forecast for Gloucester (on Accuweather) and all of next week is looking very cloudy and wet. Allan_L might have guessed right and the best days might have been the last two.

[AstroJason]

I'm thinking either heading up to Bretti on Monday or Tuesday. Like you though, that's weather permitting.

My plan is to go to Wiruna this weekend, hopefully leave tomorrow for there. Come back on Sunday/Monday and then play Bretti by ear. But you're right, outlook doesn't look good at all for next week.

[GTB_an_Owl]

stay at home on the weekend AND next week Jason

geoff

[AstroJason]

I have to say, its looking more and more like that will be the case Geoff.

[Fizics]

Best seeing ever for 4 nights in a row 😃. Great week so far would liked to have stayed longer.
John

[GTB_an_Owl]

bout time we had a good run up there

were there many campers up there?

geoff

[Fizics]

Geoff,
No not many other campers and just four in our group.

[Allan]

I am going to give it a miss this time around, too hot for me. So sadly that's probably the end of my camping until it cools down a bit next year. What say we try and ramp up the pony club observing over the summer so we can all stay in touch.

[Allan_L]

Just back from the BEST Bretti of the year.
As predicted Monday was a pearler.
Unexpectedly, Tuesday was fantastic too.
But most unexpectedly, Wednesday, which was cloudy all day, turned out to be the best night, perfectly clear from sunset to sun up and I saw both (well moon up anyway, and that was spectacular (Crescent)).

To my surprise, Inmykombi (Geoff) was there from Sunday, and he reports that was a cracker too (reportedly observing in shorts and T at midnight).

I was very surprised how cold the nights (Mon Tues Wed) were, requiring to ditch my summer sleeping bag for the -5 bag. Thurs did not follow suit, being a no sleeping bag night.

Jakob turned up Thursday. He, Arthur, and two of Arthurs work colleagues were sitting in the river as I left today. I couldn't see much in the way of good astro weather for the foreseeable future, so after 3 crackers and a no-go, I left while I was ahead. At least Joanne was pleased to see me home.

Thanks everyone who turned up to make it an extra special camp.
Special thanks to our two new recruits who spent many of the night hours with us, and who serenaded us with Ukulele and songs by day. Ann and Kerry, hope you follow up with your Binocular exploits and join us at IceInSpace :welcome:.

And Allan (not myself but other Allan) the Pony Club is always an option anytime. But lack of facilities has caused a downturn in general interest.

PS:
Happy Birthday Arthur !!:birthday:

[jakob]

Thursday was a washout.
I enjoyed Friday & Saturday nights.
Got some Exposures I haven't processed yet.
Missed out on Andromeda, again, as it was hidden by a tree!
It stays on the list for next October/November.

Thanks for the company, till next time, J

[Allan]

Beautiful photo Jakob.

[glend]

Nice image Jakob, your obviously making good progress with your imaging. Re Andromeda, its difficult to get a clear shot at it from the valley floor at Bretti (due to those pesky trees and the closeness of the hill), I think that shooting from Bretti Heights (the ridge to the south near the fence) provides a much better elevation, angle and tree free view of that lower north region of the sky. Astrojason was shooting it from there. I hope we can catch up again in 2015.

So as the Bretti season is over for 2014, I hope everyone that attended this past year has a great Christmas and holiday season, with hopefully a few cloud free nights thrown in the mix. Hopefully Santa will bring lots of astro gear for all. Cheers:thumbsup: till next year.