Spsp 2014

[tlgerdes]

Registrations have opened for this years South Pacific Star Party. This years event is being held from Thurs the 22nd to Sunday the 25th of May.

http://www.asnsw.com/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=13

Location and accommodation details are on the website above.

[The Mekon]

Just registered. Looking forward to clear skies and the Saturday night roast!

[tlgerdes]

I like the fact we are now 4 days instead of 3.

[tlgerdes]

Time to start getting your registrations in for the SPSP. We had a busy weekend preparing the site for the our big annual event. Mowed all the grass, chopped and stacked the wood, cleaned and fixed up bits and pieces around the property. The Western Imaging Field is ready to welcome all.

[tlgerdes]

Remember, there are 2 fields on the Wiruna property. There is the main observing field at the front of the property and the Western Imaging Field.

There is a strict light use policy for main field and a "not so strict" policy for the imaging field. Details of these policies can be found on the ASNSW website.

There are camping, kitchen, toilets and shower facilities on or near both fields of the property. There is also limited (approx 10 beds) internal "share" accommodation inside the house on the imaging field, if you wish to use the accommodation within the house please contact the ASNSW.

If you are visiting for the SPSP, make sure you visit both ends of the property.

Driving takes between 3-4hrs from Sydney.

[tlgerdes]

Guest Speakers in 2014

Speakers for this year's event include Francis Bennet (ANU) who is working on adaptive optics for the Giant Magellan Telescope, Penny King (ANU) who specialises in planetary geology and Greg Priestley (ASNSW) who will present a selection of beauties from the Astroimaging Group. More information will be posted here as it comes to hand.


Francis Bennet: "Adaptive optics on the GMT and for space environment management" (http://www.asnsw.com/node/1057)
Penny King: A talk on Mars and the prospects of finding evidence for life on Mars
Selected works by the ASNSW Astroimaging Group (various presenters, coordinated by Greg Priestley)

[tlgerdes]

Please note that the registration deadline is 8th May 2014.

[tlgerdes]

For those who haven't been before, in general it is BYO food and drink.

There are facilities to cook your own if you don't want to bring cooking equipment, including wood BBQs scattered around the property and a communal kitchens.

There is also on-site catering (for a nominal fee) over the 4 days provided by the Kandos-Rylstone Scout Group.

As well, we have our famous Saturday night roast dinner, for modest $12.50 per person.

Other selections of restaurants are available in the area including my favourite at The Shed (part of the Globe Hotel Rystone, about 30mins drive) where $20 will get you a fantastic serve of Fish and Chips.

[tlgerdes]

Detailed information on the South Pacific Star Party is available here

http://www.asnsw.com/node/712

[tlgerdes]

On the request of others, I have posted to maps of the site to give some reference to where things are on the property. It is about a 10min walk between the 2 fields. The two areas are joined by a dirt road that is easily navigable in 2 wheel drive cars (I regularly take my Honda Jazz along it, even in the wet)

[pluto]

Hi Trevor, thanks for posting those maps.

I have a quick question though, do you know if there is a camping area anywhere near the imaging field?
Looks like a fair way to have to drag all my gear!

Also am I correct in assuming that there's mains power available on the imaging field?

[tlgerdes]

Hi Hugh,

There is camping ON the imaging field, we don't seperate you from your gear up there ;).

Yes, there is 240v available from the house, just bring a long extension cord (20m) and a power board.

Remember though it is all run from a solar battery bank on the property, we can support about 10-12 imaging rigs each night without too much problem. We also have a generator which we run into the early evening to charge the battery bank. Some bring their own generators as well, again if so, bring a long extension cord for it so you can run it away from everyone to minimize noise disturbance.

I'm the onsite marshal for the imaging field so don't get on my wrong side or i'll cut your power :lol: . I'll be up there from Thursday afternoon.

Trev.

[pluto]

Great, thanks Trev, don't worry I'll be good ;)
I'll run my dew heaters and mount from battery to minimise my load but I will need 240v for my camera and lappy.

[tlgerdes]

You can charge your batteries during the day from the house as well, that's why we have the generator.

[h0ughy]

was looking forward to attending this year, but my son has been booked in for an operation on the 21st May so i have buckleys chance of attending now. i wish you well for clear skies for the event

[jakob]

Trevor,
Thanks for the info.
I have been to Wiruna 3 times but never realised there was a western field!

Jakob

[tlgerdes]

Thanks Jakob, I might have to put a big sign up, then again maybe not ;)

[tlgerdes]

No excuse David, I'm flying in from New Zealand on the night of the 21st to drive up on the Thursday :lol:.

Anyway the 21st is a good day (my birthday), so I am sure all will go well.

[tlgerdes]

For those that are locationaly challenged, here is the google maps reference

https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/Wiruna/@-33.013076,149.779417,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x6b0e74c5b 128fa8b:0xadb8a7505c7a081d

and for those that are Googlely challenged here is the Bing location

http://www.bing.com/maps/#Y3A9LTMzLjAxMzIzNn4xNDkuNzc5ODI5Jm x2bD0xNiZzdHk9aCZxPS0zMy4wMTM3MzAlM kMlMjAxNDkuNzgwOTE3

Always take the Tara Loop Rd off the Sofala Rd, don't try going across country from the Castlereagh Highway else you will probably get yourself lost.

[MortonH]

From Google maps it looks like the easiest way is to take the Castlereagh Highway up to Ilford, then the Goulburn-Ilford Road and then the Tara Loop Road?

[multiweb]

This is the way you want to take.

[MortonH]

Yeah, that's what I meant.

Thanks! :thumbsup:

[multiweb]

Make sure you take the second Taraloop rd turn. It's a loose gravel road. (i.e. blue path, not grey)

[MortonH]

Thanks again!

[xstream]

Hi Trevor,
Do you know when the gate is going to be open this year, will it be open on the Wednesday?
We're hoping to arrive Wednesday afternoon.

[Varangian]

hmmmm that Coopers looks yummy!:cheers:

[tlgerdes]

Hi John,

I don't know, but will find out and post back here.

[tlgerdes]

What I love about Coopers is that it doesn't have a "Best Before" date, it has a "Best After" date :thumbsup:

[tlgerdes]

Hi Morton,

Yes, as Marc said that is the best route. I also find the best route across the mountains is via Richmond and The Bells Line of Road to Lithgow. A more consistent flow of traffic with less traffic lights.

It takes me a little less than 4hrs with 2 stops, one to pick up my father Barry, and another at Lithgow for groceries.

[killswitch]

Hey Trevor

Whats the dew situation like at Wiruna? It will be my first time there.

[tlgerdes]

Hi Ed,

It can get dewy at times so be prepared for it. Seems to depend on wind direction. I always run a heater on my guide scope, but don't put one on my newt.

Your big worry with the dew at this time of year is temp, when it goes minus when it is wet. I've seen mounts seize up :lol: with ice.

[Entropy]

Hey Guys,

Can't wait to attend this year, really looking forward to it.
I was just wondering what the family registration was?
I will be bringing my Wife up with me, should I purchase a family pass or 2 single passes?

Thanks guys

[tlgerdes]

Yes, do the family pass. That is a bulk registration for people from the same family living at the same location. I presume you and your wife live together :lol:

[tlgerdes]

Registration kits have been emailed. If you haven't received by mid week, let me know.

[GTB_an_Owl]

Wiruna is notably a COLD place

If you want to stay warm and maximize your observing time, this thread might be of benefit to you

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=120729

geoff

[mental4astro]

Hi all,

The committee of ASNSW has given me the approval to promote Gondwana Telescopes there at SPSP 14, :) I am very grateful for this opportunity.

While there will be an Astronomy Bazaar on the Saturday and Sunday mornings, you will be able to also find me, and Gondwana Telescopes, by looking for the "Gondwana Telescopes" flag banner

162428

I hope to be able to pitch my camp close to the good folks from 3RF and offer my 17.5" for some sky tour work too, :).

I'll be flying the flag for Argo Navis too as this will be the first year since Captain Cook was a boy that Gary won't be attending the SPSP.

I will be there for the Friday an Saturday nights. I offered to do a sketching workshop, and the committee has asked if I would be happy to be a fall back workshop should the weather take a turn for the worst. I have no problem with this at all.

I would also be happy to conduct small 'private' workshops at my campsite too should a fall back workshop not be called for, and anyone would like to be shown how to use the Mellish Technique for astro sketching. Scott Mellish developed this unique astro sketching technique right there at Wiruna where SPSP is held. Scott's technique finally comes 'home'.

[GTB_an_Owl]

Hi all

i am moving the cutoff time for orders of freezer ware to 10am thursday (15-05-14) morning to enable delivery in time for SPSP

so if you want something please let me know by then

thanks
geoff

[Rodstar]

Hi all, after missing a couple of years, the Mary Rose will be setting sail for Wiruna this year! Can't wait!

[RB]

Now that's tempting Rod.
I'm not sure I can make it.
Might surprise you and John after all, we'll see.
RB

:D

[Rodstar]

RB, it would be sensational if you could make it! I'll bring a range of single malt whiskies and bourbons for you to sample....

[RB]

Wonderful and I'll bring some Port.

:D

[strongmanmike]

Awesome guys, Andrew, you come now you hear??? Oooh more single malt lovers...I'll bring some single malt as well :D

Mike

[Steffen]

If you guys ever wander over to the visual field, there be some Islay malt there ;)

Cheers
Steffen.

[strongmanmike]

That's where I usually am and Rod and Andrew too, I'll look out for you :thumbsup:

[RB]

I just have to make sure I'm not on call that weekend, I'll know soon.
Mike I'll also bring the Guinness Stout {for breakfast}.
The breakfast of Champions.
:lol:


It'll be great to see you again Steffen.

:thumbsup:

RB

[xstream]

I hope you do make it Andrew. I have a selection of single malts packed and ready to go! ;)

[RB]

I would love to catch up again John.
I've missed everyone.
It may be just a short visit though.

:)

[strongmanmike]

That's us!...have a cigar :thumbsup:

[Bassnut]

Thats right girlfriend, one needs to be well stocked on Champion breakfast :D. Itll be an awesome weekend.

[Rodstar]

Sounds like we have all bases covered alcoholically speaking. That will keep our spirits up if the weather turns foul.

[RB]

You said it !
BTW can't wait to see Mike's face after you finish with the the Van der Graaff machine Fred.

RB
:)

[xstream]

Guinness stew is cooked and being frozen as I write.

The dinner of Champions! :P

[RB]

:lol:
Wonderful John.

[Big Dave]

Packing now for the big trip up from Melbourne.
I have just loaded my Genny in again as the last two years the Clubs has failed to start and mine has been left to charge the batteries and run half the field anyway. I don't trust the house power up there for this event.

[tlgerdes]

Not quite true, not the clubs genny, my genny. ;) and I believe it was only last year as I was not there till the Saturday others couldn't figure out how to get it going ( the price I pay for being a cheapskate, left hand behind your right rear, stand tip toes on right foot, pull the cord :lol:).

All help in charging the batteries for others is most appreciated.

[Big Dave]

Fair call, anyway looking forward to this year. A lot of re-checking my gear as it is a long way back if I miss anything. Coming up with 4 others this year from MPAS as well.

P.S. This year I recon we need a more efficient way of transporting the donuts down to the imaging field!

[tlgerdes]

My biggest gripe there is notification. Got caught our last year that we didn't know that they had started and stopped the donuts early.

[Big Dave]

Packed Ready to leave in the morning. This year we should forward order a delivery for the imaging field!

[Allan]

I am curious, any idea how many people are going to SPSP this year?

[xstream]

Me and a cast of thousands, Allan. :P

[tlgerdes]

Think we have about 275 pre-registered. Expecting another handful or 2 drop-ins.

[Allan]

That sounds pretty good, wonder how many telescopes that will be?

[uwahl]

Wow - 275! I am looking forward to this trip. I have just finished accumulating all my gear after retiring and will use this trip to get it sorted and working together. There should be plenty of expertise around if I run into trouble!

Does anyone know what the policy is for running generators is at Wiruna? Can you run them any hour or only at designated times. Mine is fairly quiet and if I can get a parking spot near the edge of the imaging field I should be able to have it far enough away so it doesn't bother anybody. There will be power points available if anyone wants to charge batteries etc.

[tlgerdes]

Generators are not allowed on the main field. They are tolerated on the imagining field, as long at you run then away from people, so bring a long power cord.

Yes, there is power for charging batteries during the day on both the main field and at the imaging field.

[Rodstar]

Looking forward to it John.

Went shopping last night for the nibblies one inevitably requires after strenuous activity (eye strain). Double brie and smokey cheddar, honey soy crisps, smoked almonds, etc Will bring the Glenfarclas 105 (cask strength) and the Wild Turkey Rare.

Hoping to arrive about 1.30pm ish tomorrow (Thursday).:thumbsup:

[h0ughy]

Well to all the attendees I wish you happy photon hunting. Unfortunately this year my plans for attending were scuttled (my son has an operation today). With the light pollution problem I have the dark skies would have been a treat.

There is a contingent from Newcastle going there – travel well guys, enjoy the donuts

[RB]

I'm going to miss out again this year guys, I was told I will be working over the weekend, starting Thursday night. :sadeyes:

I'm so sorry, I was so looking forward to catching up with everyone.

I hope you guys have a great time and great weather.
Have a glass or two for me. :drink:

RB
:(

[mental4astro]

I'll be giving the good folks of 3RF a hand with their Sky Tour. I'll be parking my 17.5" dobbie next to their 18".

I have a question about using lasers here. What is the policy regarding using them? I attended Wiruna one other time, not during an SPSP, and we just used the lasers only during the early stages of the evening (first couple of hours after sunset), and put them away afterwards. Similar situation this time?

[tlgerdes]

Hi Alex,

From our Rego Kit info you should have received (if you haven't please PM me) we state: For the comfort and safety of SPSP attendees,the use of laser pointers (except to collimate a telescope) is not allowed.
One key thing to consider with lasers, is that they are visible from a long way away and there are a number people probably imaging in the portion of the sky you are pointing your laser, thus destroying images they are capturing.

[tlgerdes]

Aren't they bringing the 30 out? It could sort of make you feel inadequate if you only have a 17.5 next to that monster :lol:

[mental4astro]

Oh, yeah. Just a wee bit inadequate...

Thanks Trevor. That's why when I was up at Wiruna, the folks up there that night said a laser pointer could only be used for the first two hours when doing a sky tour - the imaging folks wouldn't be disturbed that way. But I guess a blanket ban will deal with people who can't follow instructions.

Hmmm, it's got me thinking. I might look at making a red dot finder rig that people can look through to see where the scope is pointed to. Not as convenient as a pointer, but will do the job too. I've got a couple lying around not doing much - two set at different heights will help more people. I'll see what I can do.

[Rodstar]

RB you will be sorely missed buddy. Will be sure to have a dram in your honour mate. :thumbsup:

[gary]

Other family commitments on the weekend mean that unfortunately this
will be the first SPSP I have not attended in 18 years.

However, Wildcard Innovations are proud to once again be a sponsor and
Don Whiteman will be presenting our lucky door prize on our behalf.

Wishing everyone a great time and here's hoping you get clear skies.

All the best.

Best Regards

Gary Kopff
Managing Director
Wildcard Innovations Pty. Ltd.
20 Kilmory Place, Mount Kuring-Gai
NSW. 2080. Australia
Phone +61-2-9457-9049
Fax +61-2-9457-9593
sales@wildcard-innovations.com.au
http://www.wildcard-innovations.com.au

[strongmanmike]

:eyepop:..........:sad: :sad: :sad:

Will miss the heaping of praise on the Hon MT :lol:

Mike

[Rodstar]

Sorry we're not going to see you Gary. Hope all is well with you and Mai.

I commented to my wife last night that I might try your trick with pouring water on someone's tent this year.... will let you know how I get on....

[Barrykgerdes]

I get sick of hearing excuses for non attendance because of family commitments. I am in the same boat as SWMBO is incapacitated due to a broken neck and arm in a sling. I was not going to stay home as a nursemaid and miss the best star party of the year.

I just arranged for her to stay in hospital over the weekend to give me a free weekend. ;):P:thumbsup:

Barry

[lacad01]

Starting the pack now; amazing how much crap one bloke can accumulate and that's without scopes :)

[The Mekon]

Bad news in the Herald this morning about smoke from burn offs in the Sydney Basin. Lets hope it does not ruin the skies like it did for at least one night last year.

[xstream]

No smoke here so far, was an excellent nights viewing last night. 😊

RB, Rod, Big Mike and myself will surely have a dram or Two in your honour mate! 👍

[RB]

Guys thank you, have a wonderful time.
I'll be thinking of you and I'll there in spirit at least.

RB
:)

[iceman]

Have a great time guys! look forward to reading about it and seeing the pics.

[Rodstar]

Hey Mike - you missed out on Guiness Stew friend!

I've been here 2 days/nights and am already deeply happy with the observing we have done. Last night was crystal clear after midnight, and very close to it for most of the night. Thursday night was very good too.

I have already snared about 100 targets on my hit list. Last night I found some Abell galaxy clusters / truly awe inspiring objects.

I am contemplating a 17 Ethos purchase today as I have been very impressed with xstream's.

On the social side of things, we are enjoying good bonhomie, with lots of good chats, catch ups and dram consuming going on. Even though it has been a while since I have come to SPSP, it still has the same magic and I am very pleased to be here.

We're all feeling a bit sad with news of Mike Smith's stroke. Love and thoughts to Mike and Lily and the Bintel crew.

That's enough thumb typing on my iPhone!

Clear skies everyone!

[Rodstar]

Further to the above, it must be noted that the following whiskies have been sampled by Xstream and me:

Glenmorangie 18 years extremely rare (thanks Strongmanmike!)
Laphroiag 10 year old
Hellyers Road Cask strength 69% ABV)
Hellyers Road Original
Wild Turkey Rare (cask strength)
Glenfarclas 105 (cask strength)
Clynelish 14 years
Caol Ila 12 years
Glenlivet 12 years

Nice!

[RB]

I'm very saddened to hear this news.
:(



No wonder you bagged about 100 targets including some Abell galaxy clusters, all in the same FOV I suppose ? .... :P

RB
:cheers:

[h0ughy]

I wish Mike A speedy and healthy recovery, and the BINTEL crew to keep things running

[multiweb]

Very distressing news. Hope he makes a full recovery. SPSP went really well. Weather turned out better than the somewhat gloomy forecast. The two talks on Adaptive Optics and Mars were awesome. And you can't beat a Kandos scout's burger with the lot. Very enjoyable week-end. Had a ball catching up with everybody.

[daine042]

It was a great weekend wish i got the chance to try out the 6" refractor i managed to score at the prize draw last night as soon as i packed it all up the cloud cleared haha

[Rodstar]

Thanks to the ASNSW Committee and volunteers who made SPSP a great success this year. Everything ran like clockwork, fantastic stuff.

Thanks also to the good folk of Kandos Guides for another year of donuts!

Looking forward to 2015!