The 20th* Snake Valley Astro Camp! March 11-15 2016

[barx1963]

The 20th* Snake Valley Astro Camp! March 11-15 2016
(*This is the 20th camp to be run, 17 “old” camps and the 3rd “new” camp)

11th – 15th March 2016
Camp commences midday, Friday 11th and concludes midday Tuesday 15th.
Monday 14th March is a public holiday (Labour Day) in Vic, so a great opportunity to get away for 3 or even 4 nights under the stars!

PLEASE NOTE: Fees are unchanged except that for juniors (those who have not turned 18 by 11/3/16) a single fee of $10 will apply regardless of how many nights they stay. Hopefully this will make the camp more affordable for families and juniors.

4 nights of beautiful dark sky away from City glare.
- LIMITED TO 50 BOOKINGS ONLY PER NIGHT-
(plus casual visitors also welcome, if setting up gear a $5- fee will apply)

- The observing field has 240 volt mains Power
- There are 12 bunkhouses (from 2 to 8 bunks) and lots of camping space on the observing field.
- Caravans welcome.
- Hot showers & toilets in a caravan park style amenities block.
- Large dining room for about 60 people
- Recreation room (billiards, table tennis)
- Fully equipped kitchen with all cooking utensils, crockery, cutlery, fridges etc.
- Lake for swimming, fishing, canoeing etc.
- BBQ facilities
*Please note, Bunkhouses CANNOT be booked for one night only.
Exceptions are accepted if you are in a shared bunkhouse with others staying more than one night. Alternatively, the campsite is available for one night if that's all you can stay.

* Alcohol is allowed, but 'drunkenness' or use of illegal drugs will not be tolerated.
* Aerosols of any description (Aeroguard, deodorant etc) are TOTALLY BANNED on the observing field. Stray spray could (and has) permanently damage optics.
* A red light only policy is in place on the observing field after dark. Lap top screens are to be suitably shielded and dimmed. Dim Red Lights (Red LED Head Torches, etc) are acceptable. If a white light must be used, please warn nearby observers before turning it on.
* Persons violating above rules will be asked to leave and will forfeit fees paid.
* We would prefer for the field to be smoke free, please consider those around you

Snake Valley Astronomy Camps are fun, low key social events. A white light ban is in force (as expected), but due to the nature of our camps, imagers and observers are all mixed in together having a great social astronomy experience.

THE BUNKHOUSES
The 12 bunkhouses range from 2, 4, or 6 bunks up to several with 8 bunks (4 sets of upper and lower bunks).
They have mattresses, but no bed linen. You will need to supply your own sheets, blankets, doona's, and pillows. Or just throw a sleeping bag on the mattress.

CAMPING
The observing field/camping area is on a very gentle slope to assist drainage, bordered on the west by trees and the
road, and on the east by the lake. Plenty of room for a lot of people to camp and set up.
240v power is supplied.

SKY
Very dark. There is a faint light dome visible low in the east, coming from Ballarat, Melbourne and Geelong.
OTHER STUFF
A “Beginners Sky Tour” will be held on Saturday night
A Lucky Door Prize (1 year subscription to Australia Sky and Telescope) will be drawn on Saturday
Solar Observing during the day

COOKING
The kitchen is fully equipped.
All cutlery, cooking utensils, pots, pans, jugs, you name it, it's probably there!
Microwaves, grillers, enormous gas ovens and stove top, 3 fridge/freezers.
All you need is your food.

SHOPS
There are supplies available locally.
3k - Snake Valley General Store: Basic groceries, petrol etc
closes 12:00 Sat, shut Sunday
5k - Linton Store: Basic groceries, petrol, hot fish & chips, hamburgers etc.
Open 7 days till 8pm
12k - Smythesdale: Supermarket, petrol, shops.
Open 7 days
20 minutes - Ballarat

LOCAL SIGHTS: Nimmons Bridge, Computer Museum, Jubilee Gold Mine Historic Reserve, Sovereign Hill, etc.

FEES
(to allow more people to attend the camp some people may have to share a bunkhouse)
PLEASE NOTE: No booking will be regarded as firm until payment is made.

Membership fee (Compulsory for all staying overnight) $10
Please PM me if you have any queries about the fees

Bunkhouses (per person)*
2 nights $60.00
3 nights $80.00
4 nights $100.00
Campsite (per person)
1 night $25.00
2 nights $50.00
3 nights $75.00
4 nights $95.00
Juniors under 18 - $10 regardless how many night or whether staying in bunkhouses or camping.
Children under 5 y.o. - free

Please book in by completing details on PDF booking form attached to this thread. Please scan completed form and return to us via email along with a payment receipt (see below).

If you have any queries or would like assistance with your booking, I can be contacted via email on snakevalleyastrocamps@gmail.com or by phoning 0352313048.

Payment details:
BSB 063510
Account 10397720
Please include your name in the detail field when making a payment. If possible email a copy of the payment receipt tosnakevalleyastrocamps@gmail.com

[Greenswale]

I'm in!

Great work by the committee getting the camp to happen again, with four nights guaranteed!

[pfitzgerald]

I'm in

Paul

[barx1963]

Its been pointed out my original post didn't include the prices for 4 nights so all updated. Also booking forms and a pdf of the info sheet is attached.

Cheers

Malcolm

[Jen]

Woohoooo I'm in :) :)
IS IT MARCH YET ?
I have more stuff to learn :)

[JohnG]

I'm in, 4 Nights, Bunkhouse this time..

Malcolm, do you want me to run a bit of a Workshop, there were a few people wanting some instruction on PS basics and using a DSLR, I can run it so as to not interfere with any formal presentations you might arrange.

I am sure Jen will want some more PS instruction... :lol:

Cheers

[byronpaul]

I'm there .... all 4 nights

Caravanning as usual.

Can't wait .... Done no visual since last camp :mad2:

Paul

[Jen]

Yes yes yes more lessons please :) I'm happy to take a step back and sit in the back of the class so I don't hog John all to myself AGAIN lol lol

[barx1963]

John
Yes please!!
Would a projector be a good idea?

Malcolm

[Dunc78]

Sounds great John. As the complete noob I am up for whatever workshops anyone is prepared to offer in March!

[JohnG]

I normally try to run things like this in a "Hands on" type scenario, by that I mean people using their own laptop or camera not sure if a projector would be useful, have never used one anyway :), I was only anticipating a few people would be interested anyway as it would not be a full blooded instructional session, more of a get to know what you can do type session with maybe a follow-up the next day.

If you are going to have some formal presentations I will quite happily work around them.

Cheers

[barx1963]

Just to update. John and I are putting together a rough outline of the workshop. At this stage it will most likely deal with setting up and acquiring images using a DSLR and then processing the images. May do it over 2 days. Will post a more complete outline of subjects to be covered once it is finalised.

I don't want the visual guys to feel left out, is there any suggestions for an activity that may interest visual observers (myself included).

One thought I had to liven up the camp is if anyone has hard copies of images or sketches they would like to display, bring them along and we can put them up in the dining hall over the weekend. I usually put any I do in a matboard which makes it easier to display and looks more professional. Would anyone be interested in doing a quick session on how to make a basic matboard for images or sketches?

Malcolm

[Mckechg]

NEVAS will circle the wagon and be there again!

[Jen]

193043
Ok I'm getting just a little bit excited already hehe :)
Woohoo not that long to go just saying....

:) :) :)

[The_bluester]

I am a maybe at the moment, but it will be three nights from Friday if I make it.

[barx1963]

Fantastic Grant. Looking forward to seeing you all there again!!

Malcolm

[barx1963]

LOL Jen

BTW, any of your new Swan Hill buddies making the trek?

Malcolm

[barx1963]

Fingers crossed Paul!!:prey:

[barx1963]

Hi all
I have had a few emails back and forth with John Glossop and we have come to a format for a couple of sessions of a workshop. At this stage we propose to run it over 2 sessions on the Saturday and Sunday. This is a rough outline of topics to be covered.

Workshop to be in 2 sessions. Focussing on image acquisition and processing for DSLR users.
1. Acquisition and pre processing (Saturday Afternoon)
a. Setup and image acquisition
i. Setting up mount and scope
ii. Polar aligning and 2/3 star alignments
iii.Attaching cameras, guide scopes and autoguiders
iv.How to focus
v. Attaching Laptops
vi.Image acquisition – Backyard EOS, Images Plus, APT
vii.Darks, flats, dark flats and bias frames
viii.Camera settings to use (Raw vs JPG)
b. Basic Stacking & Calibration
i.DSS
ii.Images Plus
2.Processing Sunday Afternoon
a.Hands on approach
b.What formats to use? (FITS, TIFF Raw vs JPG etc.)
c.What programs to use? (Images Plus? PS? Startools?)
d.Workflow
e.Differences in workflow for different objects (galaxies vs faint neb vs bright neb for example)

As mentioned, this is focusing on the basics. For the processing, if you have a laptop and some images that will help. The outline may be varied, it is really a guideline.

Once again thanks to John for volunteering to do this!!:clap:

[Jen]

Lol Malcolm I'm not sure they could put up with me go four days :) :)
They might enjoy the peace and stay home while I'm out of town Buahahaha :rofl::rofl::rofl:

[Jen]

Ohhh master classes have just got serious Woohooo but I was only sharing John for one session I didn't mention two sessions Hahahaha :rofl:

Sounds like a great idea but don't forget to hand out the lollies to the good students :D:D:D

[04Stefan07]

This sounds great.

Looking forward to it.

[barx1963]

Hi Guys

Few things to update you on the upcoming Camp in March

1. As mentioned previously we have John doing in imaging presentation. He is working on collecting some data for those who don’t have any to play with. Paul Fitzgerald has offered to bring a projector and screen which will make some of the parts easier to share. Thanks Paul
2. Patrick will be doing a short presentation on the Magellanic Clouds. Most likely on the Saturday. Outline is below:

The Magellanic Clouds – Beyond the Tarantula
“The Magellanic Clouds contain some of the most beautiful objects in the entire night sky. But beyond the showpiece objects there are many wonderful target little known to visual observers and imagers alike. As well a host of faint objects can test the best equipment and observers to detect their faint glow.
The presentation will highlight some of the more interesting objects and give some hints to finding your way around these Southern treasure houses of the night sky.”

3. We are hopeful that we can have a spit roast organised for the Saturday night. Steve Fleming has a spit available. As it is charcoal fired it can only go ahead if it is not a Total Fire Ban day. Plan is to have some meat cooked on that and some salads to share at a small cost. My idea would be that we look at a local organisation (Snake Valley CFA for example) to donate surplus funds to.
I know a couple of you are vegetarian, I won’t presume to know what you might like as an alternative, if you let me know that would be good.
4. Happy Birthday to Jen for yesterday! Heard she had way too many candles on her cake as Swan Hill hit 45.3 degrees!!
5. We have a few bookings at the moment (I am going to do a collation over the weekend) but quite a few expressions of interest. If you are looking for cabins especially, please try to get your booking in, the cabins have filled up fairly quickly the last 2 camps and I would hate to see people miss out. Don’t forget, in keeping with the policy of the past 2 camps, bookings are only made with a form and payment.

Any that’s is all for now.

Clear skies!

Malcolm

[Jen]

:P:P thank you Malcolm xoxoxo

[Greenswale]

Mmmmmmmmmm, spit roast!

[kasshall]

Malcolm is really tempting me to come along - it's difficult as uni is back by then so I'll be neck deep in reading on thrilling matters such as property law and evidence rules :lol:

But hubby and I are thinking of coming for a night or two and during the day I might have to excuse myself and study....we'll see.

Kass

[barx1963]

Just updating this info to you all. Numbers we have so far:

Booked in:
Malcolm (myself)
Darren Quinert
Wren
Jamie Pole
John Glossop
Stefan x 2
Denis Busato x2
Duncan Hamilton
Barry Coverdale

So far we have the following who by posts on IIS or by email have said they are coming but have not formally booked yet

Grant and the NEVAS crew
Paul Byron
Paul Fitzgerald
Jen
Steve Fleming
Paddy
Shazil

Have had a few other queries but not definite yet.

Most of those who have booked are in cabins so cabins may be in short supply again, so if you are after one, early booking is the best way!!
I anyone has any queries I can be contacted by phone on 52313048 (ah) or on mobile 0448 567 187 (just be aware I don’t carry my mobile with me a lot so you may have to leave a message!)

Cheers

Malcolm

[The_bluester]

Confirmed a leave pass and sent my form through today, EFT to follow very shortly.

[Greenswale]

Good stuff Paul. Now we can set up SCTA alley to pave the way to dob corner.

[The_bluester]

Sounds good, though it can lead to feelings of inadequacy when surrounded by all those fantastic big dobs. Even if it does make for a shorter walk to get great bright, detailed views of things.

Edit, oh and my job has changed within my group, now those nice image stabilised binos are legitimately in my kit instead of borrowed and will make a return visit.

[roddz]

Hi Malcolm
Count me in for Friday, Saturday, Sunday night.
I'll be staying in my van.

Thanks Rodd

[Greenswale]

Hmmmm. So now we have Dob Corner, SCT Lane (yep, small change there!), Bino Boulevard, and Imagers' Sanctum. Map available on request!

[04Stefan07]

Can't wait!!!

[barx1963]

I will have to get signs made to avoid confusion!!

Malcolm

[The_bluester]

Dobsons Corner, SCT street, Bino Bay and Imagers Inlet?

[barx1963]

Or:

"Dobsons Hole, SCT street, Bino Bay and Imagers Inlet"

Seeing as there is such a thing as Dobsons hole!!

Malcolm

[Jen]

194406

It's February already 😜😜😜 just saying..... 🔭🔭🔭🔭🍾🍾🍾

[The_bluester]

Yep, one month closer to March!

[xstream]

I have to come over to pick up Edwin for Coonabarabran the following month so put me down for Friday and Saturday night camping please.

[barx1963]

Snake Valley Camp Update

Hi guys
Sorry if I haven’t been as prolific as normal in sending updates, but we have had a simply amazing run of clear nights here in Colac over the past 2 weeks so have been out each night actually doing astronomy!!

Anyway here is the list of bookings as it is today
Darren Quinert
Wren Brown
Malcolm Barker
John Glossop
Jamie Pole
Stefan Del Pra x 2
Denis Busato x 2
Duncan Hamilton
Barry Coverdale
Julian O Donnell
Paul Milvain
Mai Go x 2
Nick
Shazil Shah
Amir Mirza
Paul Byron
Steve Flemming
Paul Fitzgerald

We have bookings from the following that are not finalised.
Tom Szafanski
John Gurkin
Jen
Rodd Westwood
Grant McKechnie and the NEVAS crew

The second group simply means we haven’t received payment yet. Obviously there are a few regulars who have not yet booked in, so if you are coming please let me know as we are in the last few weeks now!

In other news, John Glossop has confirmed he has full sets of data for the workshops. Lights, Barks, Flats and Bias frames, all tested and ready to go. Also Paddy has been putting together his Magellanic Clouds presentation and is putting the final touches to it as we speak. Paddy has suggested that if anyone is interested in observing some of the objects he will discuss, he has charts on his website. The key chart is here: http://cloudsofmagellan.net.au/page-17.htm and the relevant charts are in labelled ones 5,6,8 and 10 and inset A.
Even if using Go To these would be helpful to work out what you are looking at or imaging.

It was good to see Paul Fitzgerald make a contribution with a very early prediscovery image of Supernova 2016adj in NGC5128 recently. Well done Paul on a great pickup.

I was looking through my ASV 2016 Handbook on the weekend and noticed that Jupiter will be only 3 days past opposition on the Friday night of the camp. Well placed for anyone keen on planetary work.

Anyway that’s all for now.

Cheers

Malcolm

[The_bluester]

Looking forward to some Astro relaxation.

[04Stefan07]

Pumped!

[The_bluester]

Just stuck in a days leave for the Friday so I can pack the car and cruise up in relaxed style.

Having been on long service leave I had not even looked to notice that the Monday is a public holiday. Will see how things go over the weekend and might be able to stay the Sunday night too.

[Greenswale]

Hey Jen, what month is it?

[The_bluester]

Not quite Wren, not quite!

Getting nice and close too.

[04Stefan07]

I didn't realise it was 2 weeks away.

Looking forward to properly using my new setup.

[Andy01]

Hoping the postie comes soon so I can get first light on my newly ordered Stellarvue SV70T :) waiting, waiting ...

[The_bluester]

Looking forward to seeing it too.

[Jen]

195460

It's still February and being a leap year im stuck with February for an extra day arrrhhhhhh not long to go now though I am getting a little excited now 😜😜

[Jen]

:eyepop::eyepop::eyepop:

It's March Woohooo it's March 😱😱😱😈😈😈😍😍😍
March is finally here yes jens doing the happy dance 10 more sleeps :D oh no I better start getting organised :lol::P
See you all soon :D

🔭🔭🔭

[Greenswale]

One reads about the happy dance. I wanna see it!

[barx1963]

Hi Guys
We are up to about 35 at this stage, still waiting on a few regulars to confirm if they are coming or not, we usually get a bit of a rush in the last week, so if you are coming please let me know.

I will do an update shortly!!

Cheers

Malcolm

[pfitzgerald]

Hi Folks

All the gear is packed - and am now working on an observing and AP list and trying to get a few early nights in in preparation. Three nights in a row at the scope is something that I'm really looking forward to. I can leave work at lunchtime, so will be able to drive up and have a leisurely time setting up on the Friday. And looking forward to catching up with everyone that I met at last year's camps.

Paul

PS I have avoided purchasing any new gear and am hoping others do the same! :P

[barx1963]

Avoided buying new gear???:question::question:
Well maybe... Only one mount, so that doesn't really count!!

Malcolm

[Atmos]

Would it be an issue if I was to make a last minute decision? I do want to go but work for me can be a bit difficult to work around at times as I don't always know my schedule until a few days before :/

[barx1963]

Colin
No issue at all. I am doing the cabin allocation tonight (unless the sky miraculously clears) so will know the cabin situation then. If camping it is not an issue.

Cheers

Malcolm

[barx1963]

Oh and great to see http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=143396 with Andy winning another prestigious award for his images.

Malcolm

[Jen]

Is there any teenage boys going this time 😱😱 if not Drew might not come this time round he's getting too cool to hang out with nerdy mum all weekend 🤓🤓

[danielsun]

Hi all, sorry for the late reply but yes count me in with my two boys but for Friday and Saturday nights only in a bunkhouse please if still available.

Hey Jen, yeah both my boys will be coming but if not at least Ryan is a definite and is looking forward to it. :thumbsup:

Cheers :)

[barx1963]

Thanks Daniel!!

Looking forward to seeing you there!!

Malcolm

[barx1963]

Just updating the list of names. So far we have:

Darren Quinert
Wren
Malcolm
John Glossop
Jamie Pole
Stefan Del Pra
Claude Del Pra
Dennis Busato
Tony Busato
Duncan Hamilton
Barry Coverdale
Mai Go and Luke
Nick Richardson
Shazil Shah
Aamir Mirza
Paul Byron
Steve Flemming
Alistair Samson
Orion Gruca
John Nichols
Patrick Kavanagh
John Gurkin
Jen
Drew
Paul Milvain
Paul Fitzgerald
Paul Albers
Andy Campbell
Rodd Westwood
Daniel (+2)

A few others that may be coming:
Tom Szafranski
Colin (Atmos)
Anders Hamilton
Lara Cartledge
Markus Stone (may be bringing kids x 2)

I hope I haven’t missed anyone, please let me know if I have.
I have all the cabins allocated, but I can get more in if you are able to share.

I have spoken to Steve Flemming who is bringing a spit so we should (weather and FireBans permitting) be able to do a spit roast on the Sat evening. I am going to talk to a butcher tomorrow about costs to supply meat so will be able to give you an idea of costs for that.

I was having an email exchange with Jen last night and she mentioned viewing the “Swan Hill” galaxy (NGC 3585 – the Swan Hill Postcode) and I had an idea for a (totally silly!) observing/Imaging challenge for people to observe or image their hometown NGC or IC object. I may not be where you live but where you were born, grew up, first had a romantic encounter etc. As most NGC objects with Vic postcodes will be visible at the time of the camp, may be a bit of fun… or not!!

Also, if there is anyone coming who is a newcomer and doesn’t have access to a scope, please let me know. If required I will throw my 8” scope in the car that has a fairly basic push to guidance system (no star hopping required) that you can use at the camp. It is pretty basic but it is not getting much use so I would love to have someone get some use out of it.

Clear Skies!!

Malcolm

[The_bluester]

NGC3764 is a galaxy in Leo, might give it a crack.

[xstream]

Good to hear you're coming Daniel. Looking forward to catching up after all these years ;)

[Greenswale]

Is anyone able to bring a 50mm eyepiece, hopefully 2", but 1.25" will be fine? I am interested to see howone will go in in my scope.

[The_bluester]

50mm might be a stretch Wren, but you are welcome to try my ES30mm and .63 reducer combo. That should net something roughly equivalent to 46mm and around 50X mag.

[Greenswale]

Thanks Paul, I have ditched my reducer to remove the amount of glass in the light path. My longest fl eyepiece is 38mm, and I just want to push to 50mm, if possible.

You can have a play with my stuff if you wanna.....

And while you are doing that, I'm gonna swipe those stabilised binos!

[The_bluester]

Well, they will be there to look though. Better buy some spare batteries.

Just wondering what the field stop of your average 50mm might be, there is a little vignetting with the 6.3 reducer and 30mm, so in an 82 degree design, around 40/42mm might be near the limit before it all fades away anyway.

[Greenswale]

Yep. Thus the experiment.

[Jen]

Can I play with your stuff too Wren :P:P cause I'm leaving poor Johnny behind �� I need a bigger car hahaha

195818


Woohooo not long to go now 7 more sleeps :eyepop:

[Greenswale]

Jen, you are most welcome to play with my stuff. But only in the dark!

[barx1963]

Poor Johnny!!

Malcolm

[Jen]

195819

[barx1963]

Hi Guys
Just a quick note on something. I had a gentleman book in tonight who has` made an offer if anyone needs a lift up to SV from Melbourne on Friday, he can help His name is Kenny and he will be leaving the CDB at about 4pm Friday and coming back Sunday Afternoon.
If you need a lift I can put you in touch with him.
Kenny also asked about anyone that may be able to assist him with setting up and using his NEQ6. If anyone would like to give Kenny a hand, also let me know.

Cheers

Malcolm

[The_bluester]

Me having an Orion branded AZEQ6, and Andy C having an NEQ6 I am sure one of us will be able to give him a hand. Not much difference in operation to the AZEQ when in EQ mode.

[Wombat_In_Space]

Jen I will have the 12" you can play with that too if you want. I have fixed the DSC on it.

[xstream]

Edwin much prefers the touch of a female seeing he's Anna's baby so you're more than welcome Jen

[barx1963]

Here is the latest update on attendance:

Darren Quinert
Wren
Malcolm
John Glossop
Jamie Pole (Possible +1?)
Stefan del Pra
Claude del Pra
Denis Busato
Tony Busato
Duncan Hamilton
Barry Coverdale
Paul Milvain
Mai Go
Luke
Niko
Shazil Shah
Aamir Mirza
Paul Byron
Steve Fleming
Paul Fitzgerald
Alistair Samson
Orion Gruca
John Nicholls
Paddy
John Gurkin
Jenny and Drew
Paul Albers
Andy Campbell
Kenny K
Alois
Markus +2
Rodd Westwood
Danielsun +2

We have had some bookings this weekend, so we are looking pretty good at this stage. We usually get a few bookings in the last week. Just please remember, if you have not yet booked, cabins are only available if someone is willing to share.

Updating on the Saturday night feast. As mentioned we are doing the spit roast. I am organising salads and may beloved (Fiona) will be coming up on Saturday arvo with those and maybe some other stuff!!
We are not organising a dessert at this stage (Big Dave is interstate unfortunately for this camp so no need for a pav!!) so if you need a sugar fix you may have to BYO.
At this stage we are only going to charge $10 per head which should cover the costs. We had discussed doing this as a bit of a fundraiser and donating the money to a local cause, but what we will is put out a donation bucket and if you want to make a small donation and we will get it to the local CFA. Hopefully that will help generate a bit of good will towards us in the local community!!

For the workshop, I am chucking some short extension and 6 point power boards in my already overloaded vehicle so we will have plenty of power available for laptops during the processing part of the workshop without dismantling the power on the field.

Did anyone make it up to the ASV Messier night at Heathcote last night? How did it go? I would have loved to go but had a prior commitment.

Cheers and clear skies!

Malcolm

[pfitzgerald]

Hi Folks

Not long to go now - only four sleeps - but who's counting? ;)

The gear is all packed and ready to go, but I am looking for some suggestions for AP targets for the weekend that are relatively easy to process using Nebulosity and Photoshop CS5. So far I only have NGC 5139 (at ISO 400 and 60" subs) and NGC 5128 and its SN on my list.

Is it too late in the season for the Rosette nebula? Are there any dark nebulae or reflection nebulae that are worth considering? The field of view I'll have is roughly 120' by 60'. I should also mention that I've already had a go at imaging NGC 2070 and NGC 3372, so am looking for something along the path less followed as a potential target.

I'll be shooting with a Canon 60Da DSLR on my trusty SW BD120ED using an Orion ST80 guide scope and PHD - so I'm hoping that I'll be able to take 5 minute subs like I was able to last time.

So with all that in mind what are you all thinking about wrt imaging this weekend? Any suggestions would be much appreciated.

Paul

[Andy01]

Paul, with your gear both the Seagill ic2177 & the running chicken ic 2948 are bright & do-able and will fill your frame.
I'd recommend getting sky safari or a similar planetarium app so you can pre-set your gear's fov and plan targets according to their transit times.
Hope that's helpful, see you at SV :)

[pfitzgerald]

Cheers, thanks and will do Andy!

It promises to be a great weekend.

Paul

[barx1963]

Just a reminder.
Looks like the weather will be quite warm over the weekend. Don't forget sunscreen, plenty of drinks and a hat.

Cheers

Malcolm

[Paddy]

A reminder for those who might want to do some Large Magellanic Cloud gazing based on my presentation, you will probably find it useful to print off some of the charts (http://cloudsofmagellan.net.au/page-17.htm) from my web site cloudsofmagellan.net.au (http://cloudsofmagellan.net.au/index.htm) Even if you are going to use go to scopes, the charts will still help you work out what you're looking at. They are all of the northeast part of the LMC and I'll tell you the physics behind why that's the best bit of the LMC for visual observers during the talk.

The relevant ones will be no.s 5,6,8, 10 and Inset A (I've added chart 8 since Malcolm's last message about this)

Direct links to the chart pdfs are

http://cloudsofmagellan.net.au/lmc/lmcchart5lbl.pdf
http://cloudsofmagellan.net.au/lmc/lmcchart6lbl.pdf
http://cloudsofmagellan.net.au/lmc/lmcchart8lbl.pdf
http://cloudsofmagellan.net.au/lmc/lmcchart10lbl.pdf
http://cloudsofmagellan.net.au/lmc/inset-a.pdf

Looking forward to seeing everyone and fingers crossed for clear skies! Only 3 more sleeps!

[The_bluester]

I will print them off before coming, it would be nice to have a hunt around the LMC at all the interesting bits there.

Hopefully the weather plays the game for us.

[Exfso]

Hope it all goes well, the weather that has been hanging around here for the last few days looks to be heading east. So you might need your umbrellas.

[danielsun]

Hi all, I have been doing a bit of a clean out and just wondering if anyone going to Snake Valley is in the hunt for a mount .
I have an EQ 5 mount Black model with RA and DEC battery tracking control (but the DEC motor needs a slight repair but tracks in RA as normal) complete with counterweight $450

If anyone is interested pm me and I can bring it with me.

Looking forward to catching up with everyone.
Cheers Daniel.

[dmurton]

Wish I was going to be there this weekend, but I have commitments at the Historic races at Phillip Island. But I will be taking a mount, scope and camera with me!.

Clear skies, will catch up next camp.

Regards

David

[The_bluester]

PI historics was the competing event for me!

Our place is so dry that I will have trouble complaining if I spend the weekend sipping whiskey in the dining room because of rain, so long as we get some at home.

[Andy01]

Hmmm - according to the satellite image it looks like we might need lots of Whiskey ...

[traveller]

Clear skies to all campers at Snake Valley.
I won't be able to make it due to family commitments. I will set up my gear in my backyard this weekend and image via telepathy....
Bo

[barx1963]

The forecast is looking "better" considering a few days ago it was predicting thunderstorms and very high temps with clouds (see http://www.eldersweather.com.au/vic/south-west/snake-valley ) I have seen worse looking forecasts before camps!!

Anyway as I always say, your worst day at Astro Camp still beats your best day working!!

Malcolm

[The_bluester]

I will bring it. I think I owe you some after the last new moon. After pouring in the dark and ending up with "Ahem" a little more whiskey than I intended, I had to sit up well after you went to bed to finish the glass!

[Paddy]

Forgot to put on my previous post that people doing LMC observing will also need the key chart so they know how the others fit together.

http://cloudsofmagellan.net.au/lmc/lmckey.pdf

See you all tomorrow!:)

[barx1963]

Well after a day of solid rain, I have popped outside about 2hrs ago and it was lovely and clear here in Colac and still is. Hopefully that is a good sign for the weekend.

Malcolm

[The_bluester]

Here is hoping.

I think Andy C and I will be arriving near dark as he is tied up until early afternoon.

[Jen]

:eyepop: Woohooo it's today it's today 😜😜
I'm all packed and ready to go, I've just got to go to work for a few hours grrr then I will be hitting the road 🔭🔭
See you all soon xo
It's a beautiful clear sunny day here so I wil bring that with me too 😊
🔭🔭🔭🍾🍾🍾😍😍😍⭐️⭐️⭐️☀️☀️🤓🤓
196029

[barx1963]

See you there Jen

Heading off in a few minutes myself, think I have everything!

Please call me on 0448 567 187 if anyone needs to contact me, I will not be able to respond to emails or posts or pms on IIS.

Cheers and clear skies

Malcolm

[The_bluester]

All packed and ready to go, just waiting for the word that Andy C is done with work for the day.

[Atmos]

Wish I could make it but I have some work to do tomorrow and then more work on Sunday and maybe Monday too :(

[The_bluester]

Well, I hope everyone is having a good night tonight and the weather clears.

Despite the limited time observing it was nice to get a couple of firsts for me.

First time I have split Sirius and the pup.
First time I have observed a shadow transit on Jupiter.
First time I have managed to see the G star in the trapezium in M42, though not through my own scope.

And a technical first, mounting two scopes side by side on the Orion Atlas, having my C925 at one end and Andrew's WO refractor at the other to give high and low power views of the same object was geeky but cool. Fine detail on one side of the mount head and low power context in the sky at the other.

Thanks to the committee for putting on a great weekend as usual.

[danielsun]

Well just got back and have to say that it was another excellent camp!!
Maybe not the best conditions but got a good half the night on Friday night and even Saturday and got some awesome views through some of the big dobs and always entertaining with a great crowd with plenty going on whichever way you turn.
Thanks to Patrick with his talk on the LMC , very interesting stuff and i will take the time to have a closer look there next time. :thumbsup: Thanks also to John G for his talks on setting up for imaging an also his stacking and Photoshop tutorial wich i'm sure many would have got some valuable tips from.
Malcolm and Steve for putting on a yum Spit roast and to Mrs Malcolm for the Salads. :thumbsup:
Would have loved to stay longer but hope all those that are still there are enjoing some clear skies tonight.
A huge thanks to Malcolm and Paul for all their hard work in organizing everything and other than some clouds it was a flawless weekend so thanks heaps guys.:thumbsup:
Was great to catch up with everyone again and meet some new faces too had some great laughs and looking forward to October. :thumbsup:
Here are a few pics..

[danielsun]

and a few more.... Not too sure what Wren was demonstrating in pic 4 but it looks interesting....:lol:

[Greenswale]

One was demonstrating improbalistic balance. He, he!

[apaulo]

Hello Everyone,

Couldn't agree more with Daniel! Had a fantastic time, learnt lots and ticked some big boxes regarding my CCD skills. Enjoyed everyone's company, Jen's entertainment and the Roast....boy what a treat.
Can't wait until November.
Here is the image i worked on during the weekend of "Centaurus A"
Thank you to all the people behind the scenes
Regards Paul

[traveller]

Nice to see everyone had a good time and some familiar faces. Sorry I didn't make it this time. Hope to make it to the nov camp.

[Starrymessenger]

Had a great weekend, albeit with limited viewing. Workshops were great thanks guys. Finally had some pointers on using PS to work my images. Can't wait to give it a go!! All being well, will bring the spit to the next one! Def worth spending the time on it. Thanks to Malcolm and the rest of the committee. Some good laughs on the weekend, and that's good.

[pfitzgerald]

A huge thank you to Malcolm and Paul for 'facilitating' another fantastic weekend of astronomy at Snake Valley. It was really nice to get out of suburbia and spend the weekend with you all under the stars, and the clouds and fog when they rolled in!

To Pat and John G, thank you both so much for the time and effort that was put into your presentations on the Saturday and Sunday - food for thought wrt processing images in PS from John G, and Pat encouraged us all to look beyond the Tarantula in the LMC. Although I didn't get to image NGC 5128 as I'd hoped I still managed to get some data on NGC 2359, IC 2177 and NGC 5189.

Malcolm again spent time with the newcomers (Lara et al), as did a couple of others, showing them around the night sky and helping them with their scopes - and Lara on behalf of all of us thank you for the two delicious pavlovas you made on Sunday night!

Personally I cannot wait until the next SVAC in October - but in the meantime I must first practice the processing skills that John taught us.

Thank you all for a great weekend and I hope that you've all had a safe trip home. See you at the next SVAC.

Paul

[The_bluester]

Argh! You mean I missed out on Pav???

That will teach me to go home to my family..

[Jen]

196180

[Jen]

196181

[pfitzgerald]

Go Jen!!!

[The_bluester]

Doubly impressive given pavlova often does not want to work when it is a bit humid.

[Andy01]

Dang! There was Pavlova? D'oh!
Echoing comments above thx to Malcolm, steve et al for facilitating another great camp. Very enjoyable weekend with great company as always.
Well done gents :)

[Paddy]

Another great Snake Valley astro camp! I really enjoyed catching up with everyone and sharing some great views, especially through John's 18" SDM which has some extraordinary optics.

Thanks to Malcolm and Paul for another very well organised event!

[Jen]

196203

This is my processed image from Johns data 🤗🤗🤗 from our Masterclass sessions 😍😍
I'm slowly but surely starting to get my head around this photoshop stuff woohoo 😜😜

[pfitzgerald]

Nicely done Jen.

And let me guess - last night you guys had clear skies.

[barx1963]

Thanks again for the support guys.

Well done to the "newbies" Lara, Luke and Mai for joining in the spirit of the event, especially to Lara foe for the PAV!! We may have started Mai and Luke down a slippery slope after they took some very night eyepiece projection shots of the crescent moon with their iPhone through my 8" dob.

Paul
It was looking OK until sundown, managed a bit of stuff, Jen was imaging until 4am but the clouds defeated the rest of us.

Jen
We always worry about your long drive to Swan Hill, let us know when you arrive home safely!!


Cheers

Malcolm

[Jen]

196244

Thanks guys I got home safe and sound with the music blaring all the way after looking at my Fitbit sleeping stats for the whole weekend I think I'm going to fall into a deep coma for a week to recover hahaha I will post my report once I've caught up on some sleep xoxoxo
Is it October/November yet ? 😊😊😊

[barx1963]

Thanks Jen!!

Malcolm

[barx1963]

To those that attended John's workshop on image processing, here is the video tutorial on layer masking that I mentioned. I have used the exact process described here with some success in M42.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-PC4Sq0Zho

Malcolm

[Paddy]

Looking at those numbers :eyepop:

[barx1963]

Couple items left behind:
1. An extension cord left in the dining hall
2. A silver and black travel mug left in the kitchen.

Malcolm

[pfitzgerald]

Hi Malcolm

The extension cord, if it is white, is mine - could you please hang onto it until the next camp.

Paul

[Wombat_In_Space]

Travel Mug is mine, so thats where it got to can you hang onto to it for me till October please

[Greenswale]

There was mirth upon the field as he came to pack his tent,
Reluctant it was, no matter how 'twas bent.
The struggle was noted as passing by Malcom went,
'Paddy, by golly, you seem quite intent
On shapes unrecognisable that will totally prevent
Insertion of that device, where ever it's meant!'

Together they struggled
Together they twisted
The tent mighty strong totally resisted.
Into Paddys face it exploded
And up went the rent!
Science prevailed, instructions dispensed,
Then into its bag went the recalcitrant bloody tent.

[barx1963]

Wren

Thank's for the poetic contribution. Your talents know no bounds.

For those not fortunate enough to have been on the field while poor Paddy was packing Sunday morning, his new pop up shower tent presented some challenges, generating much mirth (and no assistance even of the advice variety) from our poet laureate Wrenford.

Malcolm

[Paddy]

Great bit of verse there Lord Wren of Snake Valley! It captures the events more than the photos, which look fairly orderly. A pic of the bit where it smacked me in the chops would be perfect! But, really, a lovely bit of poetry.:lol: