Central Coast Observing - 10th Nov

[iceman]

Hi all

Just getting this ball rolling - who's keen for some new moon observing on the 10th November?

We'll either go to Kulnura (paint ball place) or Mangrove Mountain (pony club). If there's going to be a lot of people, I think the Pony Club is probably a better option.

I probably won't be able to make it, as I have to work that night doing a production release :( It might get moved to a different day.. I hope so.
If I can't make Saturday, I'll probably try and head up on the Friday night to get my away from home dark sky fix.

[GTB_an_Owl]

Yep - my calender is marked for the 10th (as if it wouldn't be!)

if we want to use the Pony Club i would like to contact them about wed next week
so make up your minds and reply by then so we can tee it up

(paint ball is fine by me too if you all want to go there)

and hope all the rain is gone by then ( :prey: :prey2:)


geoff

[RB]

I'd like to make it but my birthday's on the next day (11th) so not sure.
My wife may be organizing a b'day party for that Sat night instead. :shrug:

[GTB_an_Owl]

THEN who is gunna stay with me till 4am RB
WHO, c'mon - tell me WHO

get em all drunk and put em to bed - then sneak out

birthdays do get in the way sometimes - eh

geoff

[Inmykombi]

Hi,

I am new to Ice in Space and wopuld be greatful for some directions to either or both of the observing places at Kulnura or Mangrove Mtn.

It would be great to catch up with others on the Coast as I dont have any family who enjoys the nstars like I do.

Geoff

[Rodstar]

It will be great to make your acquaintance, Geoff. You already have a number of things that will endear you to the group:

1. The name Geoff (well loved)
2. You own a Kombi (very hip)
3. You live on the the central coast (locals are always welcome)
4. You love astronomy
5. Your family thinks you are a tad odd on account of 4 above (many of us are well aware of how that feels!)

I will try to get to anything that goes ahead, weather-and-wife-willing.

[Inmykombi]

Hi,
I am laughing already.
Thanks for the kind words Rod. I look forward to finding everyone.
How may I ask do I find these places to observe ?

Oh and I just wish I owned a KOMBI.....one day.......hmphhhhhhh....


Geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

Hi Geoff

you will find a map to the paint ball place in the "sticky" section of the observing threads

and

directions to the Pony Club

Official name is 'Tom McKenzie Park'

33.20.18.30 S
151.09.25.50 E
nice shot of it on google earth

from the turnoff at Somersby(Kariong/Gosford exit off freeway) it is 18k to the crossroads at Central Mangrove

keep going straight through (west) for another 10.3K

it is on the right hand side going out and you will notice a well managed hedge on the right not far before it

there is an older type house and another property with a cement wall fence on the left dead opposite the gate

(if you hit a sharp left and fork in the road you have gone a few hundred yards toooo far)

geoff

[gmbfilter]

I hope to be there myself. Just how many "Geoff's" are there?

[Rodstar]

Up to three at last count! :lol:

[Inmykombi]

Well here is another Geoff to add to the group.

But how do the others spell their name ?

There is only one true way to spell Geoff you know.

:thumbsup:

Geoff

[Deeno]

yes yes yes..........
Yes please
Due to some minor commitments (got married, honeymoon,turning 40) I, unfortunatly was unable to attend last months gathering.
Upon my return I have discovered another neighbour has invested in flood lights for their backyard (can't even tell if the red light torch is even on) and am in dire need of some relatively dark skies.

Pleeeeease help me Ice In Space

[Satchmo]

I'm up for the 10th too. Should be able to bring PS's 30cm binos.

[Inmykombi]

Well thanks for all the kind words.
All I need to do is find these places for the Central Coast Observing night.
When is it decided to go to one place or the other ?
And I still cant find the directions / maps to either of these places.


HHHEEELLLPPP !!!!:help:



Geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

did you see post #8 above geoff ?

geoff

[iceman]

I'll do up a proper googlemap tomorrow, Geoff.

Geoff #4, see the sticky threads at the top of this forum for directions to the paintball place, if we choose to go there.

[Inmykombi]

Thanks,
I did see post No 8. but still was a little confused.
If I had a map or an address with nearest cross streets I could find it.

I may drive there when its light as well for the first time so I know where it is for sure.

At risk of sounding like a real nooobie. whats a "sticky thread "?

If I can find this "sticky thread" , I'll keep an eye out for the map ........

[iceman]

Hi Geoff

A Sticky thread is a thread that always stays at the top of the forum. For example, when you look at the Star Parties (http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=16) forum, you'll see a lot of threads with "Sticky" to the left of the title. They don't move and are always at the top. Below the blue line are the threads that go up and down with recent activity in them.

Here's the sticky thread for the map to Kulnura. I'll put a google map in this one for the map to the pony club. Map to Kulnura (http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=14925)

[Inmykombi]

Thank very much I have now expanded my knowledge to include a " sticky thread".and have found it....

Thx again....

[Inmykombi]

I have the map for Kulnura....
Is there one for the Mangrove site ?

Geoff # 4

[iceman]

No Geoff, that's what I'll do tomorrow.

[Inmykombi]

OK great.
I will look tomorrow.

[wavelandscott]

Sorry but I can not make it on this weekend...I am attending a Diabetes Camp with Campbell over that weekend...

I will need to attend one soon...

[iceman]

Weather forecast isn't looking good, 6 days out :(

[Inmykombi]

Lets hope for the best for the weather then.

I am really looking forward to meeting some other Central Coast Locals.

Geoff # 4

[GTB_an_Owl]

OK

i know it's looking doubtful weatherwise

BUT

who's planning on coming and where do you want to go ?

geoff

[ausastronomer]

I am thinking about coming along. Never been to the Pony Club. Are the skies at the Pony Club more light polluted than at Paintball?

Cheers,
John B

[GTB_an_Owl]

Hi John

you can see more sky glow to the south - but i guess that is because of the lower horizon available - the trees at the paint ball block it out i would say

we had/have a few periods of traffic going past thats visible

bit of a trade off really

we have more area there to set up in
clubhouse for power and coffee making (and waiting for the clouds to clear)

well worth the effort to come have a look i reckon

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

I think the group would appreciate your opinion of the site actually John

geoff

[iceman]

It looks like i'll be able to come along now, the implementation is likely to get moved back a week.

But of course now the weather is not looking good :(

I'm happy to go to the Pony Club if there's a large number of us coming. More room for everyone to setup and park, as long as they've mowed the fields.

[GTB_an_Owl]

thats good news Mike

you never know - the weather might clear for us

an indication of more starters would be good

i would like to ring to-nite to book and see if the grass has been mowed if possible

geoff

[Rodstar]

Geoff, I am hoping to be available, but will have to drag the kiddies along if I come because SWMBO is going to be away......so it is a bit in the air for me.....

[Inmykombi]

Hi,
Ill be there to meet everyone.

I have a map of the Paintball place, but will need help finding the Mangrove Mtn. site ( need a map ).

Geoff # 4

[koputai]

Hi all,
Newb here. I'm thinking of coming along to this, as the sky is pretty ordinary here at home (Sydney).

Cheers,
Jason.

[GTB_an_Owl]

Geeeeeeeez

the weather prediction for sat is changing like the weather

:lol: :lol: :lol:
one minute it is showers, then cloudy - now it is thunderstorms

so when i'm packing the car i will have to put in a pair of shorts, the freezer suit, a rain coat, freezer boots , gum boots, a pair of thongs and a couple of lightning rods

geoff

[iceman]

So frustrating this weather.. GRR!

[GTB_an_Owl]

lets see if this works

link to google maps for pony club

starting point is the crossroads at central mangrove (George Downs drive and Mangrove Mountain road)
it should be 10.3k from the crossroads and the gate is on the right

http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=16057629307146145187,-33.292570,151.236510%3B825560897412 8220688,-33.338710,151.158090&time=&date=&ttype=&saddr=Mangrove+Mountain+Rd+%40-33.292570,+151.236510&daddr=-33.338273,151.156082&mra=dme&mrcr=0&mrsp=1&sz=13&sll=-33.321492,151.198483&sspn=0.061106,0.111237&ie=UTF8&ll=-33.313746,151.202602&spn=0.061111,0.111237&z=13&om=1

geoff

[gmbfilter]

I just drove past the pony club' it looks like someone has slashed the paddock since last time.

[GTB_an_Owl]

thats good Geoff

I did ask when i got the green light this afternoon for sat nite and was told someone may have slashed it since last month - they were going to confirm that with me - but i guess you just did that.

so - if the weather gods are kind - we can go to the Pony Club on saturday nite

geoff

[gmbfilter]

Invite them along
I am sure somebody will have a few questions or a beer
Even with this weather there have being some good nights
Should be possible to get some northern views and spot holmes

[iceman]

hmm, looks like we'll be a day or two too early..

Saturday Showers easing.


City: Min: 15 Max: 21
West: Min: 13 Max: 22

Sunday Becoming fine.


City: Min: 15 Max: 22
West: Min: 11 Max: 24

Monday Fine.


City: Min: 15 Max: 24
West: Min: 11 Max: 26

[GTB_an_Owl]

we just gotta keep hoping Mike

just keep hoping

geoff

[Rodstar]

It'll be fine fellas......I checked with Mr Chaytor today, and the Ethos was NOT in the Televue shipment that arrived/arrives at Bintel this week....So expect the clouds to clear.

The really bad weather will not hit until later this month.

[Inmykombi]

I am still remaining hopefull that the weather will improve....

Oh and the link for the google map worked a treat..

So does that mean the venue is Mangrove now?

Thanks.

Geoff ( changing to Geoffro to eliminate the confusion )

Geoffro....:lol:

[GTB_an_Owl]

yes - i guess it is Mangrove - no one is chanting "paintball, paintball' in my ear.
well not yet anyway Geoffro

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

And i gave him back his eyepiece case on monday thinking you would have the beast for us to try out Rod

you just can't trust nephews to do the important stuff - can you :lol: :lol: :lol:

i should have kept the case as ransom Rod

geoff

[iceman]

Pony Club is fine for me. But I can't see the weather clearing in time :(

I'll be going out there (or to paintball) on sunday or monday, if it's not clear this weekend. I'm hanging for a dark sky fix.

[GTB_an_Owl]

BE POSITIVE Mike

it will clear
it will clear
it will clear

and yes - i can't see why we couldn't have a "half session" sunday or monday nite if we need to

geoff

[gmbfilter]

"++++++++++++++++++++"

[Outbackmanyep]

Is the pony club grounds a Quarantine site??

[gmbfilter]

no, the pony club grounds are in a purple zone. no special quarantine

[iceman]

Turns out the implementation is on tomorrow night after all .. so... sorry guys, hope it's still cloudy ;)

Weather report still not looking good.. but i'll be out there monday night!

[Deeno]

Looks like the weather might clear for Saturday night.
Fingers crossed....................

[Deeno]

Even more promising:D

Forecast for Saturday
Occasional showers, mostly clearing later in the day or this evening. Light winds tending moderate easterly.

[GTB_an_Owl]

we just MIGHT be a chance to-nite lads

have the car packed ready - i sure will

geoff

[RB]

Hope you guys have clear skies and a great time tonight.
I'll be missing your company.

:(

[GTB_an_Owl]

see you around 11-30 RB :lol: :lol: :lol:

OH! - and you can't miss a stargazing nite unless it is your "OFFICIAL" birth date :whistle:

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

and i don't see your name at the bottom of the page

:D

geoff

[RB]

Oh you cheeky Owl !!!

:lol:

[koputai]

So guys, is it Paintball or Pony? And what time is kick-off?

Cheers,
Jason.

[GTB_an_Owl]

well i'm going to the Pony Club if it looks like half a chance

and if you haven't been there before, then about a 7pm arrival (while it is still light) might be in order

i will try to be there by 6 or 6-30 cause i want to have a bit more of a look down the back

anyone can ring me on my mobile for an update from up there after 6pm i guess
0409391147

might be an idea to wear decent boots - the grass has been slashed - not mown - it still might be a bit high and WET

geoff

[okiscopey]

No leave pass granted for me this weekend. :mad2:

Good luck Goeff and everyone with the weather - at least the jetstream is shaping up OK! :)

[Rodstar]

Pappa Berry+ 3 cuddly little Berries will be there, probably about 6.00-6.30, assuming the weather is half decent.

[Inmykombi]

Geoff # 4 will be there if weather looks good and clouds clear.

I will try to get there about 6-6.30 at the Pony Club at Mangrove Mtn.

Geoff # 4

[Inmykombi]

Wow,
the clouds are really clearing on the Coast where I am, I hope they keep clearing so I can meet everyone.:D


Q/ Are there tea and coffee making facilities there at the Pony Club ?

[koputai]

Damn, looks like I have to bail on my first outing. Family get together declared at the last minute. The earliest I could get up there would be 9-9:30, but finding the place and setting up in the dark might be an issue. I'll see how keen I am after dinner!

Cheers,
Jason.

[GTB_an_Owl]

Yep we can put the urn on geoff

c'mon Jason - you know you want to - the seeing won't get really good till about 12 o'clock anyway
(and you will have to learn the lesson that NOTHING else gets planned or occurs on new moon weekend)

geoff

[Inmykombi]

This Geoff #4 agrees with the other Geoff..........Jason,

You have to get along tonight, especially seeing the sky has cleared for us.


Geoff # 4

[iceman]

Damn, so jealous of you guys.

I'm taking my setup to work - try and capture Leonos on the way to work and maybe Holmes while i'm at work.

[RB]

Rain has stopped and looks like it's clearing.

Good luck guys.

:)

[GTB_an_Owl]

WHAT ! Rain :thumbsup:

i know you just kiddin RB

ok i am out the gate - be there about 6pm hopefully

geoff

keep the fingers crossed

[Inmykombi]

Same here, on the way in 5....

If anyone sees a lost looking white van driving up and down looking for the pony club....just flag me down and point me to where the cuppa's are if I look lost....

Geoff # 4

[RB]

Unfortunately I'm not kidding Geoff, it was raining on and off up here till mid arvo.

It should stay clear for you guys tonight though.

:)

[iceman]

Crystal clear on my way to work, what a night to miss :( stuck here at work now.

[GTB_an_Owl]

in attendance
three Geoffs, one Rod, one Deeno and one John B

considering the weeks weather we have had, i think we were fortunate to get the nite in as we did

not bad most of the nite, but got cloudy at times after midnite.
dark clouds and a short shower saw us pack the scopes up, but after that cleared and Rod took the billie lids and the Mary Rosa home , we set to with the binoculars and went comet hunting on the northern horizon
we were tempted to get the dobs out for a better look at the big fuzzy ball, but persisted with the bino's till it disappeared behind cloud on the horizon

packed up and closed the gate around 3-15am

thanks for your company fella's - once again

geoff

[Rodstar]

One might say "Geoff-three" was in attendance.

I had a contented night once the little-uns were nestled in their car-bedding.

Thanks everyone for some very pleasant company with which to share the Great Canopy. The stand-out objects to me last night were M42, NGC 1535 and NGC253. I also enjoyed seeing a zoo of galaxies in Fornax with the assistance of John's 31 Nagler. I just missed out on Mars (next time).

I am still gob-smacked by Geoff #4's willingness to help with doing some steel-cutting (of my scope ramps) to make them so much more safe to use. Thanks mate, I owe you big time! You're welcome to sail on the Mary Rose anytime!

John Bambury (Ausastronomer) very kindly took me through a TPAS run on the Argo Navis. Needless to say, it improved the navigation of the Mary Rose quite considerably. I will have to master that process, as it makes such a tremendous difference, particularly when one is trying to identify individual galaxies in a conjested field.

During the night I had an unexpected call from Xstream (John Gurkin) who was calling from Snake Valley. I had a natter with John and Anna, who reportedly had already downed a bottle of something pleasantly alcoholic, and were gearing up for one of Anna's ambitious list of targets devised during the day, when the idea of tracking down 100 targets seemed entirely manageable. I always love the Gurkin's company, hopefully I will see them again at SPSP16.

One of the curious features of the evening was the bizarre singing/calling/wailing heard over valley from who knows where. It sounded like the ghost of a cat cruelly strangled by a lunatic astronomer during a full moon. At times there was "musical" accompaniment. I am glad I was not observing alone, as it may have done my head in.

Thanks everyone for helping me put the Mary Rose into dry dock. She will need to spend some time drying out today when I get up the energy to put her away.

I crawled into bed at 2am. Kids up by 7am. I am feeling a tad raw this morning. I might grind my SECOND coffee for the morning in a minute.

Look forward to seeing you all next month on our next celestial journey.

[Deeno]

Thanks Geoff, Geoff, Geoff and Rod.

A very pleasant evening under the stars. Enjoyed the nice wide horizons the Poney Club had to offer, not to mention the coffee making facilties of the club house. Already looking forward to next months outing.

Deeno

[Inmykombi]

Wow,
What a great night at the Mangrove Pony Club.

Great to meet all you guys and enjoy a coffee and some great "seeing ".
from 12 to 2 am the air was the most still I have seen it for a long time. Although a few clouds came and went every now and then, it was great.

Comet 17P / Holmes was seen to the North, and was a lot bigger than we thought it was going to be, and only just appeared above the Northern Horizon for a short while. But the size of it caught us by surprise. It was visible to the naked eye.

I Already have the next night pencilled into my Diary. On the 8th December.

I will have my new scope well and truely up and running by then.


Geoff # 4

[iceman]

Sounds like a great night, I wish I could've been there :(

Am definitely looking forward to the next one.

[GTB_an_Owl]

well i have'nt unpacked the car yet Mike ?

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

I just called the poor fellow from Scotts Tubes (Rob) over the road from the pony club that came home last nite to discover two red buckets in his front garden

had him puzzled till i explained what had happened and who the buckets belonged to

he said it is ok to turn his lights red again whenever we go up

i also invited him to come on over for a look whenever the reds lights were about

geoff

[iceman]

Thinking about Tuesday night at this stage, Geoff. But I can't get there until late (after 9pm probably)

[iceman]

ah great Geoff, glad he knows what we're up to :)

[koputai]

I'm glad you guys had a good time, and am sorry I didn't make it, but you can't really bail out of your Grandmother's 85th birthday party.
I got home around 10, so thought it a bit late for the 1-1.5 hour drive to the nag park. The skies were clear here on the northern beaches, so out came the dob for a bit of a squizz. Had good views of M42, even saw star E of the trapezium, which is a first for me. Spied 17P Holmes, though with 8x56 bino's, not naked eye. Just as I was about to put the scope away Mars popped up, so I had a quick view of it. It looked suprisingly good, especially through a vintage Unitron 12.5mm Ortho 0.965" eyepiece and a cheap Tasco 3x barlow!! Looked better through that combo than the Bintel 9mm Plossl.
Anyhow, I can't wait to get to some clear skies, and have pencilled in the 8th.

Cheers,
Jason.

[gmbfilter]

Had a great time again Sat night thanks guys

I could certainly be talked into more on Tuesday night

[astropolak]

Did I hear Tuesday night? Couldn't make it on Saturday but Tuesday will be just fine with me...

Joe

[iceman]

That's the plan - just confirming with Geoff that he can get the key.

I missed Saturday as well. Can't get there until 9pm on Tuesday though - i'll be talking at the Entrance Rotary Club meet until 8ish.