Invitation to sketch the Moon at my place in Sydney

[mental4astro]

Hi all,

I wasn't quite sure where to place this notice, so I'll start here to get the max exposure and gauge people's thoughts on this, :thanx: .

The observation forum has seen a big increase in participation. Sketching too has also developed a bit of a following too. Lunar, Solar, Planetary, galactic and inter-galactic subjects.

** So, would anyone like to join me at my place for a session to sketch the Moon from the backyard of my place in Sydney's eastern suburbs? I'm looking at this as an exercise in sharing ideas, techniques, materials, scopes, enthusiasm and an astro-comradary. **

Tea and coffee is on tap, so maybe then bring something to nibble. BYO scope, power is available (240V only). The moon is so bright, preserving night vision isn't an issue, :P :D .

Dates, well, first quater there-abouts. This summer vaccation period is favourable for midweek sessions too. I'm happy to start something tonight or tomorrow night too.

Please post some feedback on your interest in joining me, and if you can't get here, then on the idea. Maybe look at starting something similar where you are?

Cheers,

Mental.

[orestis]

Awesome idea Alex.

Too bad i was down Sydney yesterday and it was clear:sadeyes:.If i'd known earlier i would of come though i didn't have my telescope.

If you could arrange a date and if it suits me I'll come, sounds great.

cheers Orestis:thumbsup:

[GeoffW1]

Hi,

Yes Alex, count me in. I don't have the moon in my program much (it is all multiple stars), but I do have the necessary filters, so this will be a good experience with them.

Cheers

[mental4astro]

For those who'd be able to join me, I'm setting up for a session tonight. Bit late now though.

If not tonight, the second week in January sees the next first quarter.

Mental.

[Paddy]

What a great opportunity to see a master of astronomical sketching at work and get some tips. Alas, you're a little far away for me Alex, but it's an excellent invitation!

[mental4astro]

You flatter me, Paddy! I'm no master. I've just been using pencils since I can remember. I would most enjoy spending a session or two with you too, mate.

I still remember pouring over the technical drawings my dad worked on at home when I was just learning to walk!! For all the mischief I got upto as a little tacker, I never damaged one of his drawings. I got to the decorations sitting over his drawing board, but never laid a finger on his work.

I've just come in from tonight's session. I'll post the sketch by tomorrow night in the Obs. Forum thread "Sketch the Moon night":

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?goto=newpost&t=67296

It's been a long day, and my eyes are saying "Stuff You".

Maybe you could organise something where you are?

[Paddy]

Well, you've certainly got me thinking about it! And I wouldn't call it flattery - it's obvious in these 2 sketches how much experience you have as well as talent. But the way you talk about how you do it and the encouragement you give to others I find quite inspiring. My capacity with a pencil has always been limited to stick figures - and very poor ones at that - til this forum helped me to think that I could do a bit more. So thanks, bro.

[mental4astro]

Hmmm, sky has cleared here in Sydney Town. If you would like to join me tonight give me a bell.

Mental.

[michaellxv]

It's sooo tempting. What with cloud about here. Unfortunately just a wee bit far for me.

[GeoffW1]

Hi Alex,

Did not mean tonight unfortunately. I have been to a Xmas party and cannot drive.

Cheers

[GraemeT]

It's 2100 in northern Sydney and the moon is peering murkily through the clouds. All I can see is a hazy outline. (went out to see the Geminids)

[mental4astro]

:sadeyes:

Sydney's skies are fickle.

Next time.

Thank your for your interest, one and all. We'll stir this pot next first quarter for sure.

:xmas: :cheers:

Mental.

[sasup]

:family::family::family:

I'm thinking this is a great night out with crayons,paper,beer and scope. wait thats just like home!!!!!

[GeoffMc]

Perhaps for those not in Sydney we could make it a virtual Moon night? Dates: from 12th January to 16th January? Mind you, Canberra has been suffering the same weather conditions as the rest of the south-east of the country, so there's no guarantees.

Geoff Mc

[mental4astro]

Any one interested on dates between Monday 10'th of January through to Saturday 16'th?

I've got 240V mains, tea & coffee. Bring something to munch on.

I'm in Maroubra.

Mental

[Jen]

dam it why is all the get togethers in Sydney :screwy: sounds awsome to get drawing tips of the moon, i seen some of the last pics they look great hope ya have a great nite guys :thumbsup:

[mental4astro]

The long range forecast doesn't look great for next week. Still, I'm optimistic.

Offer is still open.

Jen, why don't you get a group going where you are to do the same? As they say, "any excuse..."

[GeoffW1]

Hi,

Yes, I'd be interested, although you are right, the forecast is not encouraging. Any night except Tues really.

Cheers

[ballaratdragons]

I used to love sketching what I saw through the scope.

I hope your group takes off Alex. We can never have too many branches of Astronomy.
Something to suit almost anyone. Good luck with it :thumbsup:

Apart from my private Astro Sketch collection stored on the PC and a few on some other Forums here's one I had on ASOD back in 2007: http://www.asod.info/?p=106

[mental4astro]

Ken, so YOU are the mysterious "()"!!!

ngcles had mentioned your sketching skills! Now I can put a 'sketch' to a name, :lol: . Stupendous mate!

[ballaratdragons]

:rofl:

Thanks Alex.
I prefer sketching portraits of people (my kids mainly), but also Astro.

Example of my sketching: Self Portrait - http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=3630

[Paddy]

Amazing sketches Ken. Your NGC 2070 is quite incredible. Maybe some tutorials at the next Snake Valley camp?

[ballaratdragons]

I wouldn't know how to teach sketching, Patrick.
I believe it comes from within.
Maybe I could give you some tips, but as for a group thing I doubt it is popular enough.

[Paddy]

I can understand that Ken. But it would be great if you could bring some sketches along and some tips would be much appreciated. Or a demo?

[ballaratdragons]

OK, can do :thumbsup:

[mental4astro]

Hmmm, shall I count my chickens early for tonight?

[GeoffW1]

Ooooh, stuffed it up AGAIN.

Saw this too late, sorry

[mental4astro]

Not to worry Geoff.

High cloud makes for murky viewing.

Let's see during the next two nights.

[mental4astro]

Alas something has come up that makes tonight my last chance to hold this do today, Friday, until next first quarter.

[mental4astro]

I'm also happy to go over DSO sketching too, like Ken, for those who would, rather than Lunar. I'm preparing an article on the subject, that I'm hoping to submit for IIS consideration shortly. I've added a couple of pics that will be included in the article.

Hopefully the sky stays clear for tonight.

If not, I'd be happy to go over just sketching techniques.

Cheers,

Mental.

[Jen]

:eyepop: wow thats cool Alex :thumbsup:

[mental4astro]

Hi all,

Any one care to join me for a Lunar session?

This Friday or Saturday night? I might be able to do both.

Oh, and there is no reason that the session has to end with the Moon setting either. See it as an 'extended' Star Party.

Mental.

[mental4astro]

Hi all,

I'm optimistic about the clouds that seemingly hang around for ever.

Try for a March Moon session?

I'm giving a little more notice this time too.

Weekend starting Friday, March 11.

Let me know if you're interested.

I've added a couple of my last Lunar sketches. It's been so long, these are reaching antique status, :lol: .

The first was done using my little Celestron C5, the Full Moon one was with my 8" dob (oh, and with a couple of polarising filters or I'd be blind by now, :P ).