Border Stargaze 2009 (19th - 23 August 2009)

[spacezebra]

Greetings all

It is with great pleasure that I announce the dates for Border Stargaze 2009 - 19th through to the 23rd August 2009.

We will be undertaking a wider range of activites for special and disadvantaged schools in the region this year, in the dates leading up to actual Border Stargaze event. This is to ensure that they too can experience the event a little closer to where they are located.

Registrations for the event - go live in March 2009!

Watch this space for updates and announcements.

Regards
Petra

[leon]

Thanks Petra, we will be watching, it comes around so quickly, hopefully I will be attending in 2009.

Leon

[spacezebra]

Hi Leon

Yes, the time really does fly! Looking forward to catching up with you this year.

Cheers Petra

[firstlight]

Sounds great Petra. BS coincides with the second weekend of the Queensland Astrofest. We hope to have some sort of internet connection in 2009, perhaps we can organise some sort of hook-up?

Cheers Tony

[spacezebra]

Hi Tony

I agree, that sounds like an excellent idea!

We are working on getting the internet upgraded on site for our guests - so lets chat as we get closer to the event.

Cheers Petra

[ausastronomer]

Hi Petra,

3RF will again be represented at Border Stargaze 2009. Being IYA, I am sure Fred will wish to be as heavily involved as possible in 2009. It's a bit early at this stage, to know exactly what we can offer next year.

Cheers,
John B

[spacezebra]

Hi John

It will be great to have 3RF on board again - particularly as our outreach program is becoming so well known. David will touch base with Fred in the New Year.

Cheers Petra

[Rob_K]

Great news Petra! :thumbsup: The expanded schools program sounds like a very worthwhile idea, and I'd love to assist in any way I could. Albury's only a short run up the road after all...;)

Cheers -

[spacezebra]

Hi Rob

Many thanks, its great to hear from you. Equally so, its great to have more people involved that are willing to volunteer their time.

We have had a great response to the event regionally and from a national perspective we received a National Science Week Grant..

Its been a very exciting year for us as a society and hopefully we have been able to pass on the excitement to all involved.

Keep watching this space as news about the event comes to hand.

Cheers Petra:D

[spacezebra]

Hi all

We have just been advised that we have been successfull in our National Science Week grant application for Border Stargaze 2009.

Keep watching this space as we post updates for BSG 09.

Cheers Petra d.

[leon]

Wow, Petra, that is just great news, well done indeed.

Leon

[spacezebra]

Hi Leon

Many thanks. We are all very excited.:D

Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Hi all

I know that we have been quiet - but we have been working furiously behind the scenes to provide our guests with a great line up of prominent speakers, for this years Border Stargaze 2009.

Its looking to be a big event for the IYA!

Registrations will go live very soon - so please watch this space and get in early to secure your accommodation.


Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Hi all

Sorry for the delay we have had to put the opening of the registrations off for a couple of days while we add some important details to the guest information pack.

This year we will be engaging a new caterer that has enabled us to add more to the Border Stargaze experience. If you have special dietary requirements e.g. vegetarian options please advise us through the email below as soon as you register for the event, we will discuss with the caterer the options available. The breakfast on the Sunday will again be free for all registered guests and children as our way of thanking you for your support.

For the astrophotographers amongst us we are offering an area that we will be able to get 240v access to and one that is more convenient to use. The 360 degree views and easier access will make setting up a breeze and add to your enjoyment, we will be looking forward to seeing some of the results of your time at Border Stargaze.

Last year we had many of you request an opportunity to address our audience, sadly we had to limit this due to time constraints and a couple of over runs. This year we would like to make up for this and provide you with the time and opportunity. If you do have an interesting topic, slide show or an announcement please contact the Project Manager David Chandler by email: borderstargaze@iprimus.com.au to discuss. :D

The guest information pack will be available when the registrations are open. Please read it carefully especially with regards to what you will need to bring e.g. extra linen or blankets, meal options and importantly who our guest speakers are.

Registrations and booking for accommodation are scheduled to open soon.

Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Hi all

Registrations for Border Stargaze 2009 are now open!

Registrations have already been received - can you believe it! :eyepop:

http://www.asaw.org.au/?pid=main&p=17

More information will be posted shortly.

Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Hi all

Guest Speakers have been confirmed,
Sponsors are coming on board,
52 Registrations for the event, and its only the end of March!:eyepop:
Accommodation is filling fast, book early.
Campers and Camper trailers more than welcome!Cheers Petra d.

[Farscape]

Hi

This will be my second visit to Border Stargaze and it was great fun last, even though it rained on Saturday (all day). The trivia night was good laugh and luckily the team I was on came 2nd and won 2 delicious bottles of red.

Linda

[spacezebra]

Hi Linda

Thank you for the post, Yes the weather was kind - until Saturday.

We have another big program planned, the Trivia Night will be returning and this year will be hosting the "Great Debate".

We have also ramped it up - by engaging a commercial local caterer, that has had rave revues all around the region.

Registration fees are staying the same and we will endeavour to keep the regos at this rate for as long as possible!

Looking forward to seeing you there and we will try our best to turn on some excellent weather.

Cheers Petra d.

[toryglen-boy]

is the website down? i cant seem to register ...

[seeker372011]

yes I got an email saying the website had been hacked. In the interim, if you want to register email David

Narayan

[toryglen-boy]

David?

:shrug:

[33South]

Looks like the web site is back up atm.

Update - but the booking form does not seem to be working correctly

http://www.asaw.org.au/

[spacezebra]

Hi all

We do apologise for the delay in getting the website back up and running.

We are still in the process of debugging the website and have a basic framework up at the moment.

Registrations for Border Stargaze can be made via contacting the Event Manager - David Chandler - borderstargaze@iprimus.com.au.

I will post updates as soon as they come to hand.

Regards
Petra d.

[Rob_K]

Thanks Petra, all the best with it - these things are frustrating but do happen! :thumbsup: I've emailed Dave with my booking for three.

Cheers -

[spacezebra]

Hi Rob

Yes, Rego received. All is a go!

Thank you to all for your patience. We are making progress with the website - and will provide another update shortly.

Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Hi all

We have an impressive lineup of speakers confirmed for Border Stargaze 2009.

Dr Sarah Maddison
Sarah is a computational astrophysicist at the Centre for Astrophysics & Supercomputing, Swinburne University, and the Coordinator of Swinburne Astronomy Online. Sarah’s main areas of interest are star and planet formation, particularly the formation, evolution and dynamics of protoplanetary disks.

Dr John Wilkinson
John is a science educator and former lecturer in science education at Latrobe University, Bendigo. He has research interests in science education, physics and astronomy. John has written a number of science textbooks and is author of the newly released CSIRO book "Probing the new Solar System".

Scott Williams
Scott is an indigenous research student at the University of Technology Sydney. His research currently involves using data from the Mars Advanced Radar for Subsurface and Ionosphere Sounding (MARSIS) instrument onboard the Mars Express spacecraft to identify and interpret geological structures of the surface and subsurface of Phobos, moon of Mars

John Sarkissian
John is an Operations Scientist at the CSIRO Parkes Radio Observatory. John’s main responsibilities are the operation and systems development at the radio telescope, and supports visiting astronomers with their observations. In addition, he is involved in Pulsar research - an exciting field of radio astronomy.

Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Hi all

Border Stargaze is progressing well. We have registered over 70 guests to date:eyepop: which is fantastic news! Its looking to be a great event so please if you are planning on attending Border Stargaze 2009 - please book early!

Cheers Petra d.

[Omaroo]

Hi Petra - looks like a long-lost friend of mine (Nigel Leith) has come back from running a business in Canada for the past 12 years or so to re-settle back in Albury, his old home town! I'm coming to BSG now too - to go to the party and to catch up with Nigel! :thumbsup:

I'll book tomorrow :)

[Hagar]

Good to see you are coming Chris. Will be good to see you again and have a chat.

[spacezebra]

Hi Chris

Excellent news - we are looking forward to seeing you here in Albury.

Lots to talk about.

Cheers Petra

[Omaroo]

Cheers Doug :) Looking forward to catching up with you! :hi:

[Omaroo]

Likewise Petra :) Looks like it's going to be a roaring success too! :thumbsup:

[spacezebra]

Hi all

The latest additions to the ASAW / Border Stargaze Website include:

Updated Map of the Resort

Updated Information Pack - (Catering info has now been included)

Border Stargaze 2009 - T-Shirt Design (and as per usual - Houghy will be the first to send me a pic of him weariing it!):lol:

The giant carrot will be returning!!!!!!:D

80 guests are now registered.:hi:

Cheers Petra d.

[Big Dave]

I’m in, as well as a large contingent from Mornington Peninsular Astro Society. Let’s hope for great weather. At least this time it is closer drive for me than the SPSP and ISSAC (from Melbourne)!

:):D:):D:):D:):D:):D:):D:)

[spacezebra]

Hi Dave

Looking forward to seeing you. We have a great program planned and we may have a very special international guest:D.

Cheers Petra d.

[astro_nutt]

Hi Petra!!
I had a great time last year and this year my wife will be joining me..with all her craft stuff and a bottle of Bailey's!!..looking forward to it all!
Cheers!!

[spacezebra]

Hi Norm and Melissa - Looking forward to catching up with you.

Hi guys and gals

95 days to go to Border Stargaze 2009!

We still have accommodation available in the bunk houses! Considering the price of the accommodation and what it has to offer this accommodation type represents very good value.

Description.
Bunk House ($25 per bed/ per night - willing to share)
Choice of 4 or 6 bunk bed configuration. Reverse cycle air conditioning , built in robes and ample cupboard space. Courtyard area with BBQs and preparation benches, ideal for groups.

Pics of the luxury Bunk Houses are available on our website.
http://www.asaw.org.au/index.php?page=40

Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Hi all

In addition to Bintel and York Optical joining Border Stargaze 2009 as key sponsors, we now have the pleasure of announcing our most recent sponsor - Cosmos Magazine.

www.cosmosmagazine.com (http://www.cosmosmagazine.com/)

Luna Media will be donating 2 subscriptions and 1/2 doz T-Shirts as prizes.:thumbsup:

Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Greetings all

71 days to go to Border Stargaze 2009

Over 100 Guests are now registered for Border Stargaze 2009!:eyepop:
We still have Bunk Beds available at $25.00 per bed per night. They are great value and you can check the pics online. The Bunk Rooms are new and all have reverse-cycle aircon (BYO Linen).

Over 400 students are registered for our day time school activities.:eyepop:.

We have been overwhelmed by the number of schools that have contacted us, asking to be apart of this event.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

Cheers Petra d.

[Omaroo]

Booked, paid and can't wait.

Thanks for slotting me into the northernmost powered camping site Petra - I'll be right near the new imaging area and a very happy chappy. Great to see Doug and Big Dave coming too to share that area. Should be a hoot. Four nights of astro fun :) :thumbsup:

[JohnG]

See ya up there as well Chris, will be on the field with Doug, looking forward to it. :thumbsup:

Cheers

[Omaroo]

:) :thumbsup: Excellent John! :hi:

[spacezebra]

Hi guys

Looking forward to seeing you there.

We have another Sponsor that has just joined the Border Stargaze event.

Camera House - Albury (http://www.camerahouse.com.au/stores/storeSearch.aspx?storeID=411), will be donating prizes at BSG 09.

Great to have them on board.

Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Greetings all

We have had some great news today! We can confirm that

Astronaut: Katherine Megan-McArthur, http://www.jsc.nasa.gov/Bios/htmlbios/mcarthur-km.html


will be part of Border Stargaze 2009. National Science Week is extremely generous in their scheduling and we have been fortunate to have been selected to have her here in Albury on Wednesday 19th of August. We are currently planning a schedule to focus primarily on school students, and looking at venues that are close to BSG and can accommodate particularly as this is going to generate a great deal of interest. We are also negotiating to include BSG guests that are registered on the Wednesday.

More later.......

Cheers Petra d.

[Omaroo]

Keen to meet her Petra - sounds mighty interesting. Pretty too! :o

[spacezebra]

Hi Chris

A very accomplished woman indeed!

Cheers Petra d.

[Rob_K]

That's great news Petra! This will be wonderful for the schools program - not many Aussie regional kids would have the opportunity of meeting a real, live astronaut!

Cheers -

[Big Dave]

Pedra,
Like wise with the other comments, that's truely great news for the BSG; a really feather in their cap! :thumbsup:

For all of those getting there on Thursday, I assume she is scheduled to talk at a later stage at the BSG venue (Fri/ Sat)?

- Big Dave.

[spacezebra]

Hi Dave

We have only been able to secure her for one day (Wednesday), :( her time is very limited here in Oz. At the moment we are negotiating time for BSGers that are going to be at the event on the Wednesday.

Sorry Dave, hopefully next year we will have an Astronaut on site for the duration of the event.

Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Only 44 days to go!

REGISTRATIONS for Border Stargaze 2009 (19 - 23rd August 2009) are OPEN.

Last day for online registrations will be 5.00pm (NSW) - Wednesday 19th August 2009.

Please note that accommodation is filling very fast! An excellent event and value for money - so many things for Free!


Event highlights include:


Guest Speakers: Dr Sarah Maddison, Dr John Wilkinson & John Sarkissian.

Astro/Science Activities
Astro (general) Trivia and the “Great Debate”
Vendors.
Free entry into the Cosmodome (Mobile Planetarium)
Free registration for children 13 and under - (Standard accommodation rates will still apply).
Free Breakfast to registered guests on the Sunday will be returning courtesy of ASAW.
Giveaways and door prizes, and so much more……
Check out our website - www.asaw.org.au (http://www.asaw.org.au/) for the most current information pack. As always we welcome your feedback on the registration process or questions about the event itself.

Cheers Petra

[spacezebra]

Hi all

To celebrate the International Year of Astronomy, Border Stargaze will be incorporating indigenous night sky tours and presentations, into the outreach and star party.

We are fortunate to now have John Morieson (author of Stars over Tyrrell: The night sky of the Boorong), as our key indigenous speaker.

A list of John's work can be located via the following link: http://www.atnf.csiro.au/research/AboriginalAstronomy/Literature.htm

Sadly, Scott Williams will not be able to make to the event and we thank him for his support.

Cheers Petra d.

[Rob_K]

Fantastic Petra, BSG is fast becoming the event of the year! :thumbsup: Not long to go now!! :D

Cheers

[spacezebra]

Hi Rob

Yes, its gaining momentum and not long to go!.

For those who won trivia prizes at Border Stargaze - you may remember some of the prizes (especially the wine!). This year we will be hosting on site "Andersons winery" - who will be setting up tasting and sales at various times throughout the weekend.

Anderson Wines is a local family winery specialising in full-bodied reds, and sparkling wines. The wine is made using traditional methods such as very minimal irrigation, hand-harvesting, basket pressing, open fermentation, and the traditional Champagne technique entirely by hand.

http://www.andersonwinery.com.au

Now all we need is the cheese & crackers!:D

Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Greetings all

We have finalised catering for Border Stargaze 2009 - and taste tested all the sweets to ensure the highest quality for our guests

Friday 21st Aug 6:00pm – 8:30pm

BBQ Registered Guests & General Public
Choices - Steak, snags, hamburger, vegie burger, salad
$ Pay as you go

Saturday 22nd Aug 6:30pm – 8:30pm

Dinner Choices
Spit Roast (choice of meats) Lamb/Pork/Chicken
Salad
Garlic Potatoes
Selection of bread rolls
Free tea, coffee or juice
Choice of sweets
Wattle seed cheesecake/Mud cake or Fruit salad
$15 per person (children prices TBA)

Sunday 23rd Aug 8:30am – 10:00am

Breakfast - Free courtesy of the ASAW
Bacon, Eggs, Beans, Toast & Juice
One free breakfast per person

It's not too late to register for Border Stargaze!

Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Hi all

We are just under one month from the official opening of Border Stargaze 2009.

Its our third year of hosting this event and every year its gets more exciting.

The site is ready to go, guest speakers are primed, and with an NASA Astronaut in Albury on the Wednesday (19th) to launch BSG and present - is just the best!

ASAW, will be offering three free presentations by Katherine Megan-McArthur, the third presentation will be for early arrival - BSGers, and other interested groups.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

Cheers Petra d.

[Omaroo]

Can't wait now... come on! :lol:

It'll be my 47th on the Thursday, so drinkies over at my tent if the weather isn't behaving! :thumbsup:

If it is... I'll be imaging.... :doh:

:welcome:

[spacezebra]

Hi Chris

I think that we could rustle up a complimentary bottle of wine for you for Thursday;).

Cheers Petra d.

[Omaroo]

Thanks Petra :D Better bring a glass then! :)

[Big Dave]

I will be there for that drink regardless of the weather.
You dont need two hands to image - thats what the PC is for.

[Omaroo]

Point taken... :thumbsup:

Are you camping just next to the imaging area Dave?

[Big Dave]

There is a group of us from MPAS who are sharing a room. I may camp yet, but use the room for charging lots of batterys. I will be setting up in the imaging area Wed arvo.
Cheers!

[Octane]

Petra,

It's not too late to book for this is it?

I would absolutely love to come along and join the 'togs. I'm at work so can't browse too much but if it's still open for registration will book/pay tonight.

Thanks!

Regards,
Humayun

[Matthole]

Gday Petra,

I've got the same question as Humayun...still accepting registrations?
I'd love to be able to come up Friday if possible. Camping spots still available?

Im a beginner (and when i say beginner i mean beginner :help: ) with a 10inch Dob...had it for a few months but haven't been able to bring it out much (gotta hate winter!). Anyways, Im quite keen to get up there and learn from some more experienced people and check out a vast range of equipment (ie eye peices and filters etc) so i can see what i might want to buy in the future.

Cheers

Matt

[Hagar]

Hi Dave There is power on the imaging field so batteries won't be a major problem for you unless you want to set up in some obscure area away from the crowd.

I think we will again be imaging from the tennis courts so a nice level synthetic surface under foot.

[Hagar]

REGISTRATIONS for Border Stargaze 2009 (19 - 23rd August 2009) are OPEN.

Last day for online registrations will be 5.00pm (NSW) - Wednesday 19th August 2009.

Please note that accommodation is filling very fast! An excellent event and value for money - so many things for Free!

[spacezebra]

Humayun & Matt

Yes, registrations for Border Stargaze are still open - thanks Doug for posting. :thumbsup:

We are looking forward to seeing you both and we have a huge program, starting Wednesday. If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me directly or email

borderstargaze@iprimus.com.au

Cheers Petra d.

[Octane]

Petra and Doug,

Cheers guys.

I'm going to apply for leave at work tomorrow and will hopefully register by the weekend. :)

It's extra cool because the drive from Canberra to the resort is almost the same distance as the drive from Canberra to Sydney (when I go visiting my folks and friends).

Hopefully there's plenty of room still available to set up with the guys taking images.

:thumbsup:

Regards,
Humayun

[Omaroo]

Yay! :D

[Omaroo]

That's right down the other end Doug?

[seeker372011]

I liked the tennis courts last year but Petra said you had convinced them to go
somewhere else?

is it going to be the tennis courts? if yes I bag one of the vinyl chairs and tables and wont bring one from home :) :) :)

Narayan

[Omaroo]

Narayan - I sincerely hope we're decided on the tennis courts now, because I've changed my campsite to be nearer! LOL! The more I think about it, the more I like the sound of a synthetic surface underfoot. :thumbsup: I'm in capsite #95 now - right opposite.

Right - so who's on for a couple at the Ettamogah one arvo?

[seeker372011]

honestly I loved it last year

sure there may have been some dust raised as people drove by but the visitors from Albury went home early enough

the joy of not having to search in grass for something you dropped and having a level "playing field" more than compensates

:)

[bird]

Hi Petra, I can't make it this year - I was looking forward to it, but Leisa and I are off to cairns for a couple of weeks holiday and we'll still be away when BSG is on.

Oh well, maybe next year...

cheers, Bird

[spacezebra]

Hi Guys

I cant wait to catch up with you all. I dont think there will be much dust this year, the ground is very settled and the observing field is GREEN - can you believe it.:eyepop: ( but then so is the Tennis court):lol:.

Anthony - its a shame we will not see you at BSG 09, hopefully next year - Im sure that you would get a buzz out of the outreach program.

Cheers guys and safe journeys, a few red wines await you!

Petra d.

[Octane]

Hi Petra,

I just made a payment and sent an email off to the borderstargaze address at iprimus. :)

Thanks.

Regards,
Humayun

[spacezebra]

Hi Humayun

Great to hear that you can get leave.

Yes, booking has been received - confirmation to be sent shortly.

Cheers Petra d.

[Octane]

Leave approved, woohoo!

Regards,
Humayun

[tippsy25]

hey...

Petra, is there any camping spots left?

i know its doubtful but i just found out about BSG09 would like to go for the w.e.

fingers crossed
matt

[spacezebra]

Hi Matt

Yes, we have a few camping spots available.

Check out the registration page via www.asaw.org.au (http://www.asaw.org.au)

And more than happy to answer any questions that you may have.

Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Hi there all IISers travelling to Border Stargaze.

Abigroup have advised that there will be some road changes for those travelling to BSG from either Sydney, Canberra or Melbourne.

Abigroup have very kindly supplied a map (see attached). Please note that if you are registered for the event - you will also receive this map via email.

61929

If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact either David or myself at borderstargaze@iprimus.com.au

A safe journey to eveyone!

Cheers Petra d

[Omaroo]

Where is that turnoff Petra? Looking at Google Maps it makes no sense... as Wymah Road comes straight off the Hume Highway without any of the other roads mentioned on that Abi map. Sweetwater Road is nowhere Wymah Road according to Google. :shrug:

[spacezebra]

Hi Chris

This map is hot off the press from AbiGroup today! They are "as I type" buiding the road. Abi have advised that they will do their best with signage to guide visiters to Wymah Road.

We have test driven the road and it is as indicated on the map.


Cheers Petra d.

[Matthole]

leave was approved for the friday so i Booked and paid today!

looking forward to getting up there and getting amongst it...

Matt

[trent_julie]

Knowledgeable Forum,

I'm hoping that someone might be able to provide some advice for camping with astro-photography gear, as this is the first time I've tried astro-photography, I admit I have no idea when it comes to being away with the gear (let alone anything else with astrophography)

Please advise me if I have missed anything obvious,

Power supply (Jump start)
Cardboard box with red cellophane
Spirit level (iphone)
Compass
illuminated retical for SCP alignment
Tarp for covering the scope
Eye pieces + books etc
red headlamp

I wont however have heaters for the scope, not sure if this is going to be an issue (I assume it maybe but however time has got ahead of me)

Any suggestions / advice will be greatly appreciated (I still have time to buy anything absolutely essential)

Trent

[spacezebra]

Hi Trent

We have a group of astrophotographers heading to Border Stargaze so in terms of onsite knowledge - there will be no shortage. However the guys might like to chime in here before you head out.

Cheers Petra d.:D

[JohnG]

Hi Trent

As this is your first step into AP, might I suggest that you use this as a learning experience, you have covered most things, make sure you have all your cables and methods of attachement, eg T-Rings sorted, there will be 240 v power available on the Tennis Courts where we will be setting up. I don't know what sort of scope or camera you use but if it is in the Canon EOS range, there will be a number of people using them.

Dew will be an issue so make sure you have, at the minimum a hairdryer of some sort. I take it you will be hand guiding.

Don't worry about being your first step into AP, there will be plenty of people to give you a hand and get you started.

Just turn up at the Tennis Courts and we will give you a hand. :thumbsup:

See you there

Cheers

John G

[trent_julie]

Cheers John G,

I do have an auto guider (all equipment no experience) i shall try and fing a little hair dryer tomorrow to get me thru, i will aim for 12v but i assume that 240v is readily available,
i will be bringing a ed 100 on a heq5 mount with an orion autoguider.

I will take off down to the shops tomorrow for a hair dryer, might be a bit embarrassing, but im sure i will get over it

thanks for the advice

Trent

[seeker372011]

weather forecast a bit depressing is it folks?for friday night and saturday night?

i have looked forward for this for so long would be a shame if we didnt get one decent night :(

[Big Dave]

As everyone usually shares the same power circuit, hair dryers are a pain in the butt as they quite often trip the power breaker due to overloading. That buggers up everyone in the area; make sure you get a low wattage one at the very least or one with varaible heat outputs.
First try wrapping a foam mat arround your scope (an extension of your dew shield) as this slow the dew by insulating the outside casing.

[seeker372011]

yes but you have to pay the toll

Doug and/or John will collect your dues

narayan

[JohnG]

Dew straps would have been better but as you have said you don't have any, a 12 volt Hairdryer would be OK or, as Big Dave has said a foam mat will help stall the onset of dew but wont totally stop it.

Cheers

[Octane]

Narayan,

What on earth are you talking about? :P

It will be great to see you again, after, how many years? :)

Regards,
Humayun

[Big Dave]

Well, of I go now for the 5 hour drive. See everyone up there. Hope there will be a few there tonight as the weather looks like it may be ok.

- Dave. :)

[spacezebra]

Hi all

We are just off to the airport to pick up NASA Astronaut - Megan McArthur - too exciting for words that she will be in my car!!!!:D:D:D:D:D:D.

Safe trip Border Stargazers

Cheers Petra d.

[kezstar]

Hi all,
just wanted to say Thank You to the organisers of Border Star Gaze. I took about 50 Year 5 students to hear Katherine McArthur speak in Albury today. Wow! Never mind the children, I was so inspired. The children chattered about the images and info all the way back to school and I'm sure they are now relaying some fascinating news to their families over the dinner table.
XXX

Kez:D

[Octane]

Kerryn,

Woops! Her name is Megan, not Kat. :)

I'm spewin' I missed the talk. :(

Regards,
Humayun

[leon]

Have a good one, guys, gees I wish I was there.


Leon

[trent_julie]

Just a quick thanks to everyone at border stargaze who helped me take my first astro-pic.

I'm quite pleased with my fuzzy, drifty, un-processed not to mention un-centered M8 :)

Hope you have better luck with the sky tonight if not tomorrow
Cheers Again

Trent

[spacezebra]

Hi all

Thank you all for the excellent comments - we still have a lot to learn so feedback is always great.

I have just finished my final rounds and the observers are observing - the astrophotographers are astrophotographing and all is well with the world.

The skies cleared - just after we cancelled the public night. So at least a couple of good nights.
:D

Saturday is looking a bit dicey - but so far the weather reports have been a bit weird!

Cheers Petra d.:)

[anthony2302749]

Not really, I am stuck in Melbourne and knowing that I am missing great event:(. Good job always Petra, David and all the crew best of luck for next year. 2010 I am going to plan my holiday to conenside with the next BSG and bring the family.

Anthony

[gary]

Thank you to the ASAW for putting on such a great event.

Special thanks to Petra and David.

It was great to catch up with so many of you and to meet some new faces
as well.

Though we ran out of luck on the Saturday night as far as weather, some
observing was done on the Friday night. But a good time was had! :thumbsup:

John Sarkissian's presentation on the search for the lost Apollo 11 moonwalk
tapes was fabulous!

And anyone who now sits in the passenger seat of Petra's car can say they have
sat in the same seat as a for real astronaut! :lol:

Best regards

Gary Kopff
Wildcard Innovations Pty Ltd

P.S.

Whereas when we passed the Dog of the Tucker box the external temperature
was 13C, it was 25C by the time we hit Sydney at 3:30pm this afternoon.

[Omaroo]

One heck of a BIG thank you to the organisers of BSG09 - and especially to Petra and David. Being my first BSG, I can honestly say that no star party I've ever experienced has been better organised and run. You guys and your fellow ASAW guys and gals should be very proud of the result. Entertainment was laid on when the weather wasn't wonderful, and I mut say that I thoroughly, thoroughly enjoyed the great debate on Saturday night. Myles Allen and the gang were terrific - very, very funny :)

The facilities are really first-class - especially the lecture room and dinner hall with fireplace. Very nice indeed!!! I'll not be camping next year, but be booking a cabin next to the pool ala BigDave, Greg and crew. These are right next to the imaging area and are again first-class. Can't believe that they have flat-screen TV's in them. LOL!!

Imaging was hit and miss due to the weather on a couple of nights, but Friday night was spectacular! Both Humayun and I stayed for the duration, taking our last darks at 7:00am as the sun was making an appearance. Only a couple of hours before we were taking laps around the tennis courts to keep warm! Humayun did over 4-hours of solid data aquisition on NGC2070 that night, so I'm keen to see what he produces. I managed an hour or two each on M16 and M17, as well as M42, which is a treat for this time of the year. The sun killed me off as it rose. LOL!

I didn't get the time to visit the visual observing field as we struggled to mke the best use of time that we had. I'd like to say that it was an absolute pleasure to have been situated on the tennis courts with the imaging guys - what a truly great bunch of fellas. John (JohnG), Doug (Hagar), Chris (33South), Humayun (Octane), Trent (Trent_Julie), Dave (Big Dave), Steve, Greg & Tait and a host of others all made imaging a fun, informative affair. It was Losmandy G-11/G-8 City there on that courst that night.... :)

Once again - thanks Petra and David - I had a ball. Please, please book me in for next year!

[JohnG]

I too would like to add a big Thank You to Petra , Dave and members of the ASAW for once again putting on a great Stargaze :thumbsup:. It was great to meet up with old friends and to meet new ones, especially on the Imaging Field, it has come a long way from just 2 or 3 imagers in the first year.

It was great to be able to help some new imagers and also to get some advice from the more experienced.

Looking forward to next year :).

A picture of part of the imaging field.

Cheers

[astro_nutt]

On behalf of my wife and myself..we would also like to give a big thank you to Dave and Petra and to the rest of the members of the ASAW, the staff at the Wymah Aspen resort and to Brownie and good folk from Catering Outback for putting on a terrific Stargaze..even thought I didn't get to set up for some serious viewing...we still enjoyed the great company, lectures, debates, trivia..( I have a bruise from a flying mars bar!!)..lots of serious fun and we will be back next year for sure!!
Regards...
Norm and Melissa Matyson

[Octane]

I'd also like to congratulate David, Petra and ASAW for putting on and pulling off an excellent stargaze, under the difficult circumstances (weather).

I had an absolute ball of a time, and, also managed to pick up a shirt and a subscription to COSMOS magazine, woohoo! First time winning anything! :)

Like, Chris, next time, I won't be camping. Whilst camping is fun, I managed to get set up in a swamp. :rofl: It's a wonder I didn't float away downstream. :P

It was a great pleasure to set up alongside Chris (Omaroo), Chris (33south), Doug (Hagar), John (JohnG) and Trent (trent_julie). The stories John told us, oh boy! I'd like to also sincerely thank Chris, Doug and John for all their help with my equipment; from helping out with bits and pieces to their assistance with setting up and getting imaging. The guys all hunkered around my G-11 and managed to find a problem -- my declination motor was quite loose. After John pulled it apart, Chris discovered a crack in the gearbox. Thanks, guys!

I'm already looking forward to next year. :)

Regards,
Humayun

[Rob_K]

Another great success for ASAW & the region, with a massive schools program, a visit from an American astronaut and a highly enjoyable star party at Wymah Valley Retreat!

Had a fantastic time myself, catching up with people such as John (JohnG), Doug (Hagar), Chris (Omaroo), Peter (Peterbat), local stalwarts including Petra & Dave, the two Micks (Nolan & Laws), and many others! Friday was a dismal day – cold, high winds, driving rainstorms – so it was almost miraculous when the wind died & clouds cleared to give us clear skies all night, with transparency improving through the night. Saw lots of stuff just using my 4.5" reflector, and strangely didn’t avail myself of much of the "firepower" on site. Did have a look at a couple of comets through a 12.5" dob though (thanks Brian!).

Saturday started clear, but got cloudier. A late afternoon debate was held – "Is astrology a science?". I was very much barracking for the negative – about time we kicked this stuff back to the Dark Ages. Fortunately the negative team was led strongly by Miles, a typical Leo. :whistle: :P

It was raining by evening so observing was out. ASAW organised a trivia night hosted by the inimitable Miles! My table of three (myself, Lorraine & Becky) did very poorly! I’d been told on good authority that most answers to trivia questions are either Don Bradman or Phar Lap – might need a new strategy next time. :ashamed: Stayed up till well after 2 am when the cloud appeared to be breaking up & stars were showing in gaps, but called it a night anyway. Sunny in the early morning so I suspect that there had been an observing window after all.

Congratulations and a huge thank you to all the dedicated and hard-working organisers & volunteers from ASAW (and particularly Petra & Dave) for making this event possible!!!! Back next year for sure! :thumbsup:

Cheers!

Coupla pikkies:

[Farscape]

To the Team at ASAW

Congratulations :thumbsup:, another fantastic year at Border Stargaze, even though the weather wasn't good. Had a great time listening to the presenters, the debate was hilarous and great fun and looking forward to one next year! The Trivia night is also great fun especially with Miles running it, you can't help laughing at his antics :lol:

Some photos I took:

1. Solar viewing
2. Solar spectroscope
3. Norm with his Astrolabe
4. The WINNERS of the Great Debate

See you next year.

Linda

[Big Dave]

A great event, thanks to the organising team and fellow images.
Look forward to next year.
Big-Dave.

N.B. I got some images I was really happy with on the Friday Night (so little time, so many objects!) I have posted some of them here.

[faulteh]

Yes I had a great time for my first star party. Some great viewing when the weather was good, and lots of fun and interesting things to do.

See you all next year!

Cheers,
Faulteh

PS some of the photos I took playing around with my camera.
http://www.photons-beware.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=23

[spacezebra]

Hi all

Just a quick post to thank you all for your great comments, pics and feedback. We had a mixed bag of weather, and it was disappointing that we had to cancel the public night - but as it turned out it was a bonus for the guests staying on site. I am down with a flu :(, however David will post a more detailed report very soon.

Again many thanks to all that supported Border Stargaze - you make it such a great event:D.

Cheers Petra d.

[gary]

Thanks Petra,

Get well soon!

Best Regards

Gary & Mai

[Big Dave]

My Japanees Atlux was surrounded by those American G-11 things; I think they wanted to make friends - or start a war?
Clearly I was out numbered 6-1.....

[The Unbeliever]

Hey Everyone,

I have finally finished the evaluation reports for National Science Week and the Councils.

What an incredible event, I cannot thank everyone nearly enough by the fantastic comments, feedback and support. Our sponsors again humbled us by their generosity and you each (Wymah Holiday Park staff, guests, sponsors, vendors, ASAW members and guest speakers) made BSG 2009 a memorable experience.

This year we made the decision to engage a commercial caterer and what a success that was. No amount of planning could have prepared us for the excellent level of service and boy were we spoilt for choice. Catering Outback were simply the best and the feedback we received backs that statement all the way.

This year was special for a number of reasons, we had Nancy Rooke OAM Wirradjuri Elder welcome us to country, Andersons Winery, a trebuchet demonstration, Norm Matyson and his Astrolabe, the three Johns (Sarkissian, Wilkinson and Morieson), a 3D theatre, the Cosmodome (with Miles of course), the debate, the trivia night and to cap it off Dr Megan McArthur (NASA). What can we do next year:eyepop:.
In all our guests speakers clocked up 12 hours of presentation time, we hosted an incredible number of participants 1,427 over 4 days, we finally made it home late on Sunday afternoon and just managed a pizza.

To read more about BSG 2009 please visit www.asaw.org.au (http://www.asaw.org.au)

Cheers

Dave
PS Trebuchet was fun,
:thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thum bsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup: :thumbsup: