Pony Club (Central Coast) - July

[sally1jack]

Hi Guys,
Just got back from 10 days in Hong Kong & probably saw about as much sun as you guys have.

I know this is early but how about sat 18th & or sat 25th july.

Both GB astro & Rodstar have bought Nag 31's & my SDM have given the weather Deamons there Karmic due , but enough is enough!!!:bowdown:PLEASE weather Gods.

I'm gettin twitchy
Phil

[Wavytone]

I think we all need to appease the Weather Gods with a few (telescopic) sacrifices.

[gmbfilter]

Either,the sooner the better!

[AlexN]

I'll gladly take a hammer to my celestron 50mm achro and a few 0.925" eps and barlows if it will make the skies clear up..

[Allan_L]

At least it was good to get up to the PC last weekend, set up the scope, do alignment, then wait for it to clear (which never happened)!

Talk about unlucky...
18 July No1 son birthday
25 July No2 son birthday. :birthday:

Hmmm!
Maybe I can talk them into celebrating out with their mates !!! :wink2:

[iceman]

I don't have a chance..

18th I'll be up at Parkes, and the week before I'll have been up at Brisbane for work for 5 days.

So the weekend after (25th), I'll be instructed to stay home :)

[Inmykombi]

Looks like the 18th and the 25th are OK for me.:D

Fingers and toes crossed....

[GTB_an_Owl]

so why weren't we taking a moonlit ride to-nite ?

i thought about it - but was put off by the 7timer saying there would be cloud cover

i should trust my instinct more often

geoff

[jakob]

You'r serious? Sunday night?
I'm witht you:) desperate to do some observing.

[GTB_an_Owl]

sorry jakob

i was talking about sat nite - last nite

i think i have to go relative visiting in blacktown to-nite

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

yes - you are right Greg

geoff

[jakob]

I guessed as much, but the time on your post showed 1.43am Sunday?

I went Whale watching instead:).

[Inmykombi]

:prey::prey::prey::prey: :prey::prey::prey::prey:

There better be some stars next weekend.

[Rodstar]

I can't make either Saturday unfortunately....on the 18th I am going to the Dragon Gala Ball in Sydney, and to a friend's masked dinner party for her 40th on the 25th...hope you guys have some decent weather this month.

[Rick Petrie]

The long range for next Sat. is looking really good?????????????.:eyepop::thumbsup :
( We've heard that before too).:rolleyes:
Sorry you can't make the best conditions we are likely to have for months Rod, but we'll be thinking of you mate.:whistle:
Now who's coming?
Cheers

[Deeno]

Fingers and toes crossed!!!

[GTB_an_Owl]

you'll want more than that crossed Deeno

WHAT AM I SAYING ?

of course - it will clear Deeno - trust me

geoff

[sally1jack]

I'll be there with clear & jetstream free skies,
everybody needs to be on best behavior this week for the weather Gods;)
Masked birthday party you say Rod, sounds like an opportunity to do the old switcharoo & who knows who is behind the mask:lol:,catch up next time.

Looking forward to sat
phil

[gb_astro]

I hope to be there on the 18th.
On the 25th might try to get to Wiruna and give the freezer suit a workout.

Greg.

[norm]

I'm down the 18th or 25th.

Geez I hope the weather is good:whistle:

Clear Skies, Norm

[Rhino1980]

18th is out for me, damn overtime...

[Allan_L]

I am currently of the belief that I will be there.
(re: No.1 son's birthday, i suggested to SWMBO that she bring the kid and a cake up the mountain, so we could celebrate in style ! :)
Now i understand he has made alternate plans with his mates)

:fight:

[Octane]

I'm in for the win, as I will be in Sydney this weekend.

Is it possible for a keyholder to perhaps get there rather early? I would like to do some imaging if possible and I suspect it may take me a while to set up.

Thanks!

Regards,
Humayun

[GTB_an_Owl]

what do you call "rather early" H ?

geoff

[Octane]

Around 3 PM, Geoff.

Regards,
Humayun

[Inmykombi]

I am in....:thumbsup:

The Coffee machine should make an appearance too.

I'll get there as early as I can, say around 5'ish.:D

[Rick Petrie]

I believe there could be some hedgehogs put in an appearance on Sat. night.
Now all we need is the weather to cooperate and it's looking to be a bottler.
Plenty of warm clothing will be a necessity also.
See yoooz all there.:thumbsup:

[GTB_an_Owl]

should i wear the ceremonial dress for the preparation and serving of the "hedgehogs" Rick ?

what uninitiated members will be in attendance and due for "the rites" ?

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

geeeeeeeeez "H"

i don't get out of bed that early

don't know - but there could still be horses on the field at that time of the day - what do you think GMB ?

geoff

[gmbfilter]

Who Who ?

Thinking....

[Mike21]

I've just begun playing this game. Is the pony club open to members generally or is it a secret rites thing? I'm interested because I am from Newcastle.

Michael.

[GTB_an_Owl]

everyone is welcome Michael

this is IIS remember

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

now then Geoff -

GMB is you you
and who who would be me

geoff

[Kimbo]

Hi all,

I might be able to make this Saturday, I'm tempted by the Hedgehogs!!! Do they go well with red wine? If I search through my freezer I might even find a packet of sausage rolls that need to be eaten.

See you all on Saturday (hopefully),

Kim

[Octane]

3 PM's not /that/ early, considering it's dark at 5 PM! :P

Regards,
Humayun

[GTB_an_Owl]

well i guess your right there "H"

if it's dark at 5pm - it's gunna be a looooong nite though

how about we try for about 4pm then - unless someone else wants to get there earlier and has a key

geoff

[Rick Petrie]

I didn't know you were in to DRESSES Geoff.:shrug:
But I guess you could wear whatever you like mate if it involves 'hedgehogs':rofl:

[Mike21]

So this pony-club is open to all and sundry? What are the expectations? I don't want to commit any fas paux. I gather you are meant to assume stealth mode upon entry so as not to blind any nocturnal activity. The map shows a hut/shed/clubhouse, does this mean water can be boiled there or does one need to bring his own provisions for survival? Whom may I contact more locally, to verify everything is GO on the night?

Regards, Michael.

[sally1jack]

Pony club is for everbody Micheal, there a great bunch of guys , the club house is well equiped power , hot water , pie warmer etc , we need to leave it as we got it & all is O.k, most guys get there on dusk & leave with a minimum of fuss, Oh except Norm who seems to enjoy a few laps on the way out:rofl:Just keep watching this thread to see if its a goer
Come along & have a good night

Phil

[gmbfilter]

I may get an early pass but probably won't get there before 3:30pm. I can keep you all posted

[Octane]

That would be great, Geoff and Geoff.

Regards,
Humayun

[Inmykombi]

G'day Michael.

You are most welcome anytime.
However, its best to try and get there in daylight if you have never been before and to minimise lvehicle ights on entry for those who enjoy imaging.

I normally take a drip filtyer coffee machine, but just bring your own " poison " and a few nibblies. We Normally share stuff anyway.

Look forward to meeting you.
Chances are if you just say G'day Geoff you will get a response as there is three of us there.:lol:

Check out the maps at the top of the page of this forum for directions .
The entry is on Wisemans Ferry Rd and is a little concealed with shrubs etc.

See ya there.

[Rhino1980]

Are you blokes going on the 25th as well or just on the 18th?

[Inmykombi]

I am begging at present to go then as well , among family visitations to Sydney on that weekend....

Flowers, maybe some chocolates etc to the lovely Wife may equal a leave pass.:whistle:

Heres trying.

[Rhino1980]

:lol: Are you married to my missuses long lost twin? Let me know if its on, I should be able to make an appearance.

[sally1jack]

If the weather is good & one of the gate keepers is going I'll be there, I'd be very supprise if it was off.
phil :thumbsup:

[gmbfilter]

Mee too

[Inmykombi]

Just saw the hedgehog thingy.

Hmm, I cant miss them now can I. They must take precedence over family visits I think.


Picture it....Hot Coffee....Hedgehog....the buzzing of the LX200 in the middle of Dob Alley.... What a night it will be....:whistle:

[Rhino1980]

Well if she's on for the 25th I have a green light, repeat, a green light! Will drop you a line next week to see if yer still going and for some directions etc.
Cheers
Ryan
:thumbsup:

[norm]

Ha Ha Phil - don't worry I'll be pointing my nose directly at the exit this time so I don't get my bearings crossed !!!

Should be a good one I hope:thumbsup:

Norm

[Deeno]

G'day H

I hope to get there early as well but....I have to work saturday and am unsure what time I'll finish. Will try to get there by 3.......ish

Deeno

[gb_astro]

"I hope to get there early as well but..."

Just admit it you guys, you have forgotten how to do it in the dark, have'nt you? :doh:

Greg.

[Inmykombi]

___________________________________ ___________________________________ _

I dont know what your talking about Greg.:whistle:

[Octane]

Greg,

I'm horribly scared. I haven't imaged since November, 2007. I've forgotten how to drift align and everything.

So, yes, I will man up and say I'VE FORGOTTEN IT ALL. Waa waa. :~)

Regards,
Humayun

[GTB_an_Owl]

looks like we're in for another long nite RB

what sort of targets will we pick for "H" that will be good around 3am :whistle:

geoff

[Arthur Alchin]

25th a better night for me: anyone going that night??

[Arthur Alchin]

my cars in the panel beaters

[Rick Petrie]

The moon will be up at 2:41AM!:P
The hedgehogs though will sadly be gone by 3:0AM.:(

[Rick Petrie]

Do those buzzing,whirring thingy's come with mufflers?
How to break the 'peace' and 'serenity' of Dob Alley.....Just add a LX200.:lol:

[Inmykombi]

Its nice to know one is appreciated Rick....:P


"H", can you bring some CD's of Ulrich Shnauss to listen to please.
If possible that is.

Cgeers.

Geoffro.

[GTB_an_Owl]

http://7timer.y234.cn/exe/apanel.php?country=AS&adm=AS02&site=1578&en


i like it
might be a bit dewy though

geoff

[gb_astro]

Ulrich Schnauss: pretty cool, very spacey.
Thanks Geoff.

Greg.

[Inmykombi]

Are you goin all hi-tech. on us now Geoff ? with charts like that.

What happened to the old-fashioned methods you used to use ?

[Inmykombi]

Hi Greg,

Humayun put me onto this fellow and I like the music quite a lot.

I cant wait to get some CD's :D

[Octane]

I'll hook you up, Geoff.

Regards,
Humayun

[sally1jack]

Whats up with this weather!!!!!!!:shrug:
Not happy Jan
phil

[GTB_an_Owl]

it's only friday Phill - don't panic!

the owl's prediction is that if we get early cloud, it will clear after 10pm - 11 at the latest
then all systems go

don't let any cloud put you off - be there

geoff

[RB]

I haven't been very active on the forum for the last few weeks due to my workload, been working till late at night.
I'm hoping to attend tomorrow night though as I need a break.

So looking forward to catching up with everyone, but I'll probably get there later in the evening.

Hope we get clear skies everyone.

:)

[gb_astro]

"The moon will be up at 2:41AM..."

Following negotiations at the highest level I have managed to get us an extra hour of dark time. So the moon will now rise at 3.52am Sunday morning.

Greg.

[Inmykombi]

Well done Greg on your valued negotiations !!!!

It'll be a great night with Mr. Owls predictions of clear skies....

Fresh Coffee will be on the grinder tomorrow ready for the trip.

Also hope to see you there RB.

Geoffro.

[GTB_an_Owl]

i need you ALL to come to my place about 11am

TO HELP ME FIND ALL MY GEAR !

i have no idea where it all is :lol:
it has been soooooo long

geoff

[Shano592]

It'll be in the last place you look, I reckon...

[GTB_an_Owl]

two places maybe Shane

where i left it :doh: :whistle:

or

where my missus moved it to :mad2:

geoff

[gmbfilter]

Mr. Owl in you beats the heart of a philosopher!

Universal truth, time and space all revealed

Awed

cu tonite we will work out what end to look through :thumbsup:

[gb_astro]

Anyone know if they are still working on that bridge at Central Mangrove?

Greg.

[Inmykombi]

Predictions are for a cold night.

Bring the " woolies" and your freezer suit.

I have a job to look at at Kulnura if the customer calls me back in time.
So I might be there a little earlier than 4 pm. I will need the time like the rest of us to figure out how to set up in good time.

[RB]

Bridge is open again Greg, no more detour....yay !!!

BTW guys, I've setup a weather station which you can check to see the local conditions up here, including a skycam.

http://www.mangroveweather.com/

It will give you a good indication of the current conditions and any trends and changes.

Hope this helps.

I'm planning on bringing my Meade tonight, but I'll be arriving later in the evening.

:)

[gb_astro]

Andrew, thanks for both, Greg.

[sally1jack]

Thanks RB :thumbsup:

[RB]

Cheers Greg and Phil.

I'll be leaving the skycam on till sunset, (at the moment it's a little dewed up since I haven't connected the dew heater to it yet, but in future it will be running).

Should be a good night and I look forward to seeing everyone again. :cool:

[Inmykombi]

I am leaving in 5 min. for my Kulnura job, then I am out there.

Have I got everything ?????????????????? aaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh

See you all there.

[Octane]

I'm in Leichardt at the moment. Going to Macquarie Centre to grab a bite and then I'll make my way up. See you guys soon.

Regards,
Humayun

[Rick Petrie]

Leaving in about an hour. Hope I've got everything!!!!
See yazall. Oh yes warm clothes. Lookin' good so far.

[gmbfilter]

Am leaving. Will be there 3:30 ish
Yeeerharrrrr

[Rhino1980]

Have fun you lot. Wish I was joining you this weekend but have to work tonight. Hope you will be still keen for next weekend and hope the weather is good because I have been busy making wilcox rings and getting a power supply and some other stuff. Here's hoping!
:thumbsup:

[iceman]

I can't make it tonight. Going to Melbourne for work on Monday for another 3 nights :(

Was supposed to be in Parkes this weekend :(

[Kimbo]

I've just finished packing the car & hope I've remembered everything. I'm going to try to take my first astro image tonight (just a simple star trail) so wish me luck!

See you all soon

Kim

[Rodstar]

I hope you blokes made the most of the clear skies last night.

I arrived home from the Australian Chinese Community Association NSW Inc Gala Ball at about 1am, looked up at the sky from Point Clare, and all I could say was "Wow!". It was the clearest most beautiful naked eye view of the Milky Way I have ever seen from home - the thought crossed my mind to get out the scope, but thought better of it....

I can't come next Saturday night either....maybe Friday night, though.

[Inmykombi]

Thx to all for coming to the PC for what turned out to be a very nice night indeed.
Seeing was very good for a while and then slipped away before re-appearing good again a bit later.
So much to see on the first really good night for ages when we were all together. All the usual "Must sees" plus Andromeda, Veil Neb, loads of Globs and some nice doubles in Pegasus. And I must have seen about 30 Meteors during the night, most of which seemd to be from just East of Jupiter. Short, sharp with no trail to speak of with a few sporadic ones chucked in that had some nice trails and good brightness.

I owe myself an uppercut for forgetting the ground coffee jar even when I took the drip filter machine and everything else.:doh:

Thx to Kim and Geoff OWL for the Meat Pies and Sausage Rolls that kept the insides warm.
My scope said it got down to 4.5 degrees last night, no Dew until pack up at about 4 am.
One highlight for me was seeing the Waning Crescent Moon and Venus on almost the same elevation as I drove along Wisemans Ferry Rd about 4.15 am....what a treat that was with the Earth Glow slightly lighting the dark side of the Moon. I had to watch the Road too as I nearly wiped out a few little white poles while watching / staring at them :rolleyes:

I am "up a at 'em" now and feeling like a Zombie trying to get ready for a family BBQ about 1pm. mmmmmmmmmmm

See you all again soon.

Geoffro.

[Rick Petrie]

That just about sums it up Geoff(Inmy...). Was an excellent night with good clear skies for a change. Great to catch up again to all those that came.
Dob alley was a big DOBFEST with some striking views of all that deep sky stuff through the SDM's and Geoff filters new beast. Thanks to all and to GTB and Kim for the hot treats.
Hope H and Deeno got some good images from their efforts. Looking forward to the next PC.
Might go back and get some more Kips now.
Cheers:thumbsup:

[GTB_an_Owl]

have to agree guy's

what a great "meet", and better than average sky for a change
the milky way was awesome early on in the evening
a very pronounced "emu" to be seen - looking like it was ready to peck the head of someone in Sydney - or further south

we officially renamed a few spots on the field last nite - we now have "18 Alley" and just off to the side of that we have the "Meade mezzanine"
we do still have "Nite Fright" corner (where Greg and Al like to set up)
we now have evidence of the reported happening's down there via the reaction of Deeno's guard dog last nite - lots of getting up from his warm bed in the car to growl at something down there in the corner :whistle:

we finally made contact with the fellow (Dave) across the road and got the 'pony club airfield landing lights' turned off. What a difference that made.

my thanks to GMB for opening and closing last nite - love the new scope Geoff - a great addition to '18 alley'

thanks for the colimation and hedgehogs Rick - much appreciated

!!!! do you all know - that an 'Argo' works much better when ALL five pins of the "Alt Encoder" are connected to the ALL five holes on the lead ? - your not supposed to have one pin hanging out i found !!!!!!!


geoff

[gmbfilter]

What a sight Geoffs everywhere ...except everyone else

Soo good too see sttars
& catch up

Phil & Greg's SDM are fantastic machines

Thanks to H for letting me touch his G11

Deeano cant wait to see pics 6 hrs...unguided...drift King!:thumbsup:
I'll watch the video again to see wot I missed

Just so darn good to have a good Night

[RB]

A very good night indeed, great to catch up with everyone.

Thanks to all who allowed me to view through their scopes, views of the Veil, M31, the Swan, Eta and doubles galore, it was a great night !

I kept my word and brought along the Meade.......:whistle:

Good to see Deeno finally get the 'drift' of things :lol: and to see H level out any minor adjustments on the G11. ;)

Looking forward to next time.

:)

[Deeno]

Almost forgotten how much I enjoyed these nights!

Great to see so many photon starved scopes out on the field.
Finally had my little imaging rig up and running. Amazing how one error in drift aligning can end up in months of frustation.
Need a bigger car so I can bring the dob as well.

Thanks to everyone who let me bludge peeks through their scopes. 'Bout time the PC turned on a clear sky for us! And those little party pies and sausage rolls really saved my life!

Next weekend?
Cheers
Deeno

[Rhino1980]

Sounds like you all had a blast. What was the doggie growling at, you have me intrigued? Hope to see you next week end so I can finally give the new beast a proper run...

[sally1jack]

What a great night !!!, all i could hear was laughter & oooo's & aaaah's by all, everybody was getting great views almost worth the wait of the past few months.
Thanks everybody for a great night i enjoyed it ,special thanks go to the owl, firstly for selling me that toastie warm freezer suite , secondly for getting that light turned off, good effort Geoff.

Look forward to next time

phil :thumbsup:

[sally1jack]

I forgot to mention the Horsehead was clearly visible for a breif period to the naked eye , quite incredible ;) Mystery solved Geoff
Phil

[gb_astro]

Guys, thanks for the views through your scopes.
Nothing like a couple of 18's to put a couple of 14's in their place!
Guess it was a case of Phil's SDM sophistication verses GMB's JMI ""how does this work again???" with newly "Morning Fresh" cleaned mirror". Great views in both.
H's ED80 on a G11. Need an earthquake to disturb it.
Joe got his binos working in mine and Phil's scope. Impressive. Thanks.
Kim, are you into this Christmas in July thing?
Somehow your setup reminded me of a tree with all your new toys around it. (Only joking:)).

I think I should have been warned about "Nite Fright" corner.
A couple of times my SevoCat decided to move the scope all by itself. Amazing, and I have witnesses.
The ghost of some tormented past Pony Club member come back for another look?
(Or maybe my remote batteries are just on the way out?)

Greg.

[norm]

It was a great night. Thanks to Rick and Greg for helping me with the collimation. Thanks heaps to Phil for lending me his 17mm Ethos:thumbsup::thumbsup: - great peice of glass and definitely on my wish list now!!!

Would have liked to stay but the cold was starting to bite into the toes.

Great to meet some of the gang again and as usual the company is always welcoming:).

Norm

[Kimbo]

I had a great time last night guys, thanks for all your help with my newish toys. A special thankyou to Geoff (Inmy...) for helping me set up (& for his patience) & to H for his help with my first attempt at an astro image. :thanks:

One of the highlights of the night was seeing the 'Horsehead' in real life, it was an amazing sight!

I won't be there next weekend as I'm heading up to Wiruna for another photo attempt but hopefully I'll make it again next month.

Kim

[jakob]

I'm pleased you guys had a great night!
Unfortunateley I had a commitment to go to Colo.
Did a bit of observing from there wit my ED80.
Just hope the conditions repeat this Satuday.
J.

[Octane]

Thank you everyone who came on Saturday night -- it was the best night out I've had in ages. It was so good to see the beautiful Milky Way up, out and shining so prettily. It was great to have the field so packed with people. :)

Thank you to Geoff (gmb_filter), Andrew and Deeno for assisting me with my polar alignment woes. It had been so long that I had effectively forgotten everything.

It was nice to meet you Kim, and, I hope your first foray into widefield astrophotography turned out a treat! Looking forward to seeing your first attempts.

I'd love to make it next weekend, but, I'll be in Armidale photographing a wedding. I might get a chance to have a naked eye peek at the night sky, though.

Cheers.

Regards,
Humayun

[Allan_L]

WOW! That was great!
Frite Corner! A place to be avoided.
Darn those southern trees are tall :(
And I managed to position myself precisely to catch an eyefull of that blasted street light? through the trees down there.
Then I thought I was going to be dinner for the Hell Hound.
Does he come there regularly?
And GB's ghost, I can confirm his scope definitely started slewing by itself while we were chatting.

That exit gate is hard to find isn't it :) Escpecially in a truck. :driving:

The "new to me" (old) Troopie was fun.
Except that it broke down on way home. :help:

Warning, NRMA guys do not like being called out at 4:30am.
At least I got to see the crescent moon and snapped a few Happy shots while I was waiting.
WOW! That was a great view.

Hoping for a repeat performance (except break down) next week.
But may be pushing it a little.
Number 2 son 23rd birthday.
Hoping to talk him into going out to celebrate with his mates (like No 1 son did last Saturday for his 25th Birthday)

Oh No! My son thinks at 25, he is now "Middle Aged" :):):)
So What does that make ME !!! ??? !!!

Fingers crossed for next Saturday.
Fingers crossed on getting the Troopie back on the road.

[GTB_an_Owl]

Your scope should behave it's self next time out Greg :thumbsup:

looks like the "ghost" emigrated to Allan's truck :scared:

geoff

[Arthur Alchin]

Is this sat night a goer can anyone tell me, should be able to get there, weather permitting

[Inmykombi]

Any keyholders ( gatekeepers ) going Saturday night to let us desperado's in ?

Looks like there is a few takers on the night.
Geoff, Geoff and whoever ? are you going Saturday ?

[GTB_an_Owl]

you have a key Don't you Geoff ?

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

i might have to go to coffs for the weekend - not sure at this stage

geoff

[Inmykombi]

If you mean me GTB, I have No key.

[GTB_an_Owl]

why not ?

geoff

[Rhino1980]

I can get some huge bolt cutters... ;)

[Inmykombi]

Dont know ????????

I was never given one I guess.

I'll open up.....but closing is a diff story....remember....:scared:

[Inmykombi]

Between your bolt cutters and my angle grinder we are in i'd say....;)

Seriously, Who with a key will be there.... ?

[GTB_an_Owl]

if i have to go away you can have my key geoff


geoff

[Deeno]

I'm a starter for Saturday night
and have a key

[RB]

Don't think I can make it this weekend guys. :(

Hope you have another pearler.

[GTB_an_Owl]

of course you can make it RB

don't talk rubbish

besides you have a jacket to pick up for one of the boy's (delivery came this morning)

if it's simply a matter of you running out of cigars - i'm sure Deeno can bring a couple extra for you

geoff

[RB]

LOL Geoff, I'll try but doesn't look promising for me atm (and it's not because I ran out of cigars, there's plenty of those :lol: ).

BTW my boys love the freezer jacket, they can't wait to get the other one.

Looks like I'll have to get one for each of the kids.....:whistle:

[GTB_an_Owl]

bit of jealousy hey!

tell them - when thay get big enough thay can wear em
or first in - best dressed

weather is looking dodgy anyway
sat nite up to midnite might be ok - here's hoping

geoff



geoff

[Rick Petrie]

Looks like I have a leave pass for Sat. night but will not be able to get there until about 6:30ish. Fingers crossed for a good night again.

[Inmykombi]

Cool bananas Deeno.

I am glad you have a key. I am aiming to get there.

[sally1jack]

Can't make it on sat got family coming over, sorry guys , hope you have great skies
Phil

[Allan_L]

Just last night, I told the wife that PC was on again this Saturday.

No words have yet formed, but the look .....:scared:

Hmmm, I have not been officially grounded,
But...
Stephen's 23rd birthday.
He is cooking a special spread
He has invited his grandparents
Last week, after PC, I did not get to bed before 5:48 am
We have to be gone, on way to Sydney by 6:50 on this Sunday

Oh, and then theres the fact that moonset wont be till about 20:45 ?

So, ....
yeah I should be right :P
:evil2::astron:

[Inmykombi]

Hi Alan,
Well you will just have to leave an hour earlier to keep the peace then..;)

[bones]

Was planning to go tomorrow night but just found out that my wife has organised other plans with friends we haven't seen for a while. Will hopefully see you all next time. To those who make it hope you have a great night.

[Arthur Alchin]

Is 1500hrs a good time to get up the mountain? Will have the CB on Channel 8 if anybody is after a chat

[Rhino1980]

I will probably be there between 3 and 4pm. Looks like the moon will only spoil the fun for an hour or so. Looking foward to seeing you all there. :thumbsup:

[bones]

Definitely can't come. My father in law surprised me with a knock on the door last night. Drove 820km's to see us for the weekend.

[gmbfilter]

Yess I'll be there

[jakob]

I'm planning to be there before dark.
It's been along time since I managed to be there!
J.

[Rhino1980]

I'm all loaded up, and I don't mean drunk! See you there guys.

[Deeno]

Have some running around to do. Should be there by 4

[Inmykombi]

Packing the car now ready to get going....

[Rhino1980]

Well fellas it was good to see you again, shame that nature kicked us below the belt though. Hoping for another clear new moon in the near future.
Clear Skies
Ryan

[GTB_an_Owl]

Yep - sorry your first trip to the pony club was such a bummer Ryan.
looked promising early, but the cloud that was expected after midnite, rolled in about 5 hours early

we left around 1 am after putting up with just one too many sucker holes and emptying the pie oven.

a big welcome to our new local, Andrew
we will be looking for you on the forum

those cookies were a bit of ok GMB - didn't mind Jakob's cheese sticks and monte carlo's either

till next time i guess

geoff

[airspaceman]

G'day all l'm finely registed. Would like to thank everyone on sat night for making me welcome. It was a good night. looking forward to next time. Can't wait to get my new 12'' light bridge now. asap. :D

[Allan_L]

Sorry I couldn't make it guys :(

I musta bin dreamin to think I could get there with all those forces conspiring against me.

In the end, decided to go for the brownie points and stay at home for the organised function. May need them for next month. ;)

[bones]

It's a shame the weather turned sour on you all early in the night.

It was a good thing I didn't go up there to the PC - I'm sure that there would have been a hidden protest from my wife if I said I had tried to infer that I'd make it up there later in the night. As it turned out she and a mate's wife had organised a belated combined "80th" birthday party for me who turned 40 in April and my mate who turned 40 in June. They had been planning it for months and purposely made it a surprise by being so far from our actual birthdays. Talk about sneaky. :whistle:.None of knew what was going on till we got there and all our old mates started showing up saying 'happy birthday'. It was a great night. :).

[Inmykombi]

Good to see everyone again, shame about the clouds. Never mind....

Hey Geoff, next time, we better check the Pie oven crumb tray BEFORE the pies go in....:scared:

Geoffro.

[GTB_an_Owl]

shhhhhhh! - no need to tell em

geoff

[Allan_L]

Oh no! I can guess......:scared: :jawdrop::eek:

[Arthur Alchin]

I think i have been sold and i am getting a Telrad for my schmidt newtonian: sick of trying those contortions arounfd the finderscope.

bad luck about the weather: those cloud things, maybe August will be better. Also chasing a digital inclinometer for mount.

Otherwise as happy as larry, scope looks great Ryan.

[GTB_an_Owl]

bunnings - west gosford for the inclinometer Arthur

hard to find - they are in a box above head height in the tools dept - middle shelves on the end near counter i think

geoff

[Rhino1980]

Thanks buddy. You got talked into a Telrad, and I ordered a 20mW laser today. Same as you, got sick of getting a sore neck trying to peep through the FS.

[airspaceman]

Hi all. Going down to Bintel tomorrow to get the 12'' lightbridge. Plus an 32mm Tele Vue possl a Telrad mount hard to beat. A light shrowd. Collimating eye piece. Moon filter etc. Can't wait to get it home tomorrow Night in backyard test it out. Also will be sussing out the Argo Navis computer can't afford one yet but soon get over the lightbridge first. looking forward to the next viewing night.

Question where is the best place to get a red n white headlight?.:eyepop:

[Octane]

Andrew,

You lucky so-and-so! You know now that you've bought such a nice big telescope, the weather is going to be crap for a few weeks? :lol:

I think you can pick up the Eveready red-and-white headlamps from Coles. That's where I got mine. They're a bit rich at about $30 or so, but, they do the job wonderfully.

Look forward to peeking through your scope next time.

Regards,
Humayun

[airspaceman]

Thanks Humayun, i'll go and have a look that sounds good. looking forward to using the new beastie. you'll be welcome to have a peak through it.
I'm using my home built 8'' dub at the moment. Thanks

Regards
Andrew..

[Allan_L]

Hi Andrew,
I got mine from BCF.
They have many there, but mine is 3 white and 1 red LED.
And I reckon it was only about $19.
(Batteries not included - takes 3 x AAA )

works for me!

Good luck with the scope,
Hope to see it up the PC sometime soon.

[gb_astro]

Hi Ryan.

Before you pay for that 20mW laser I just thought I would mention that anything over 1mW is on the list of prohibited weapons in NSW.
To use it you need a permit ($127) from the Commissioner of Police or you have to belong to an astronomical organisation approved by the Commissioner of Police.
Could be wrong but I don't think the Pony Club is on that list.

Greg.

[Octane]

Greg,

Can you just say that you're representing XYZ astronomy society/club/group? And, if that society has a license then all is hunky dory?

I know in the ACT we just have to mention that we're members of the CAS and all is well (as far as I know).

Regards,
Humayun

[Rhino1980]

Thanks Greg. Does Iceinspace count? I tried to join the astronomical society of Hunter a while a go but it seemed that Col was a bit full so I decided against it for now. The legislation states that you need a permit for a laser greater than 1mW unless an exemption applies to you. The way I read it, an exemption includes a reasonable excuse, which in the definition includes hobbies. Same way you may have a knife on your person if you have a lawful excuse, like for cutting your lunch or for your occupation. I will only be using in bracket as required by law and I won't be using out in the back paddock as its under a flight path, I will only use it out at dark sky sites so they won't even know I have it!

Thanks for the thought though! I had already paid for it though!!!

[Rhino1980]

And Andrew, how the hell did you talk your missues into letting you get a new scope in a matter of days? Seems you have some skillz to teach us all :rofl:

As for the red/white LED headlight, got mine for 9 bucks off ebay.....

[airspaceman]

Gday all. Got the new beasty up n running still playing with the adjustments 99% there. Its a top bit of gear. Tested it in back yard tonight. I'm single so no probs with buying new toys. See you all at PC.

Andrew

[gb_astro]

Hi again Ryan.

I am no expert on the legalities and have just been reading up on some of the info available through a couple of the astro societies around.

The Astronomical Society of New South Wales has a link to the Weapons Prohibition Amendment (Laser Pointers) Regulation 2008:
http://www.asnsw.com/info/WeaponsProhibitionAmendment(LaserPo inter)Regulation2008.pdf (http://www.asnsw.com/info/WeaponsProhibitionAmendment%28Laser Pointer%29Regulation2008.pdf)

and the Macarthur Astronomical Society has some good general info:
http://www.macastro.org.au/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=67&Itemid=115

Reading these it seems to me that there is only one way to use a laser without a permit and that is if you are a member of an approved society using the laser to take part in activities associated with astronomy.

You might convince the authorities that you have a "reasonable excuse" but this only allows you to get a permit, not to use a laser without a permit.

Most of the astro societies around seem to be legally constituted bodies
and it would be common sense for this to be a basic requirement for being an "approved organisation".
The Pony Club is just a group of people meeting up and IceInSpace is just a website, so I doubt either would qualify.
Also organisations have to actively apply to be recognised as an "approved organisation". So if you join a society that has not applied and been accepted then you are out of luck.

Greg.

[mental4astro]

I got my head-band LED lamp from 'Paddy's Markets' for $5, then cut red cellophane to size & a bit of tape. Cellophane also used on 12V spot lamp.

[Rhino1980]

Hey Greg,
thanks for the info mate :thumbsup:
Ryan