Viewing the Total Lunar Eclipse from Brisbane area

[iceman]

Moved this discussion to a new thread :)

Turns out I'll actually be in QLD on the 15th and 16th June, presenting a social media seminar for real estate agents.

So I'll need to get some ideas from my QLD friends about where I can observe this from, low in the West with a nice foreground!

Anyone have any ideas?

[steve000]

Hey mate, I have a decent spot for you if you are keen?
http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=&daddr=-27.326986,153.008357&hl=en&geocode=&mra=mift&mrsp=1&sz=18&sll=-27.327093,153.008507&sspn=0.003279,0.006866&ie=UTF8&ll=-27.327093,153.009531&spn=0.003279,0.004823&t=h&z=18

its up a slight hill in the road, with little street lights over looking a large farm yard. You can see from about 2 degrees above horizon id guess

[iceman]

Looks good!
Have you got a photo of what it looks like when pointing out that way?

How far from Brisbane is it?

[steve000]

I do.. dunno where, i keep lookin..

Outside of peak hour, it about 20k takes about 30mins max.

Dunno where u stayin OR what transport you will have. There is a hotel just next to it though, dunno if its good hotel tho, looks dodge

I leave for work from around there at 730am to get in at 830 so id be happy 2 give you a lift back, id also offer a room for the night but non available sorry

[iceman]

Sounds ok, will be in touch.

I don't know where my hotel will be yet but it'll be close to the city. I'll have to find a taxi to take me somewhere at like 3am LOL

Is there a spot on the East side of the city with a view over the city to the West? Or would Mt Cootha be in the way?

I'll only have my camera+tripod, can't lug the telescope and mount on a work trip :)

[steve000]

Mt cootha and surrounding would probably be in the way.. HOWEVER, you may be lucky to get a decent view from mt cootha. if anyone else can have an opinion on this that would be good as I dont know it very well


Even trains to my place would be a little to late.. arrive at 5:32am. takes about 5 mins to get to the spot from the train



Extimated cab fare from city to here $60

[steve000]

I asked some friends on that side of town. no one had any idea.

I recken you ask your hotel if they have a entertainment balcony or similar you could get access to

[StephenM]

Hi Mike,

I was thinking of this spot (http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=59939), but then realised that the Moon will be setting in the WSW, not WNW. I'm not aware of any other spots that would be similar to this.

So at this stage I'll probably just go the the local park a few minutes from my place. The view to the west looks like this (http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=60459), and there are some nice gums that can be included in wider angle images. Not a "stunning" foreground, but not too bad all the same. This location is only about 15-20 minutes by taxi from the city (closer to 15 at 4am!). You're very welcome to join me of you'd like. Since it's close to home I'll happilly provide breakfast for you as well!

Cheers,
Stephen

[iceman]

Thanks Stephen - the one with the Moon and Pleiades looks great. Just what I would hope for.

Where exactly is that location so I can check it out on google maps and compare it to where the Moon is setting?

Is there anywhere else like that?

The local park sounds ok as a last resort but want more foreground given I'll be using a reasonably wide lens.

[Analog6]

Do we have the actual times anywhere on here? I need to nut out a spot too not too far from home preferably

[iceman]

Here, Odille:
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/63-618-0-0-1-0.html

[CometGuy]

Hey Mike, why not head up to River Terrace, Kangaroo Point, where there is a clear view looking back over the city and river. Should be great location to frame the moon.

Terry

[iceman]

That doesn't look too bad, Terry - but the Moon appears to be setting too far to the West to be able to get the city in the FOV.

From that location (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=River+Terrace,+Kangaroo+Point&sll=-33.401094,151.363792&sspn=0.008491,0.021136&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=River+Terrace,+Kangaroo+Point +Queensland+4169,+Australia&t=h&ll=-27.479263,153.034229&spn=0.036094,0.084543&z=14&layer=c&cbll=-27.479304,153.03408&panoid=GpHSG9bP_K7_PUCxOWL8Aw&cbp=12,273.02,,0,1.68), the city appears to be to the North West, but the Moon is setting in the South West (approx 243deg).

Is there anywhere with a better view?

This location (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=River+Terrace,+Kangaroo+Point&sll=-33.401094,151.363792&sspn=0.008491,0.021136&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=River+Terrace,+Kangaroo+Point +Queensland+4169,+Australia&t=h&ll=-27.46647,153.034444&spn=0.008187,0.042272&z=15&layer=c&cbll=-27.466451,153.034439&panoid=eMWvEcsFBlbAEjiKLROpDg&cbp=11,231.33,,0,-12.24) appears to be pointing in the right direction, but doesn't have great view of the horizon and the Moon would be lost in the trees too early.

Any other ideas anyone?

[oosh]

Too bad it's in the west, we're going to be staying a few nights at Alex Heads while this is on... maybe they have an accessible roof..

[mswhin63]

Still quite early in the West, especially when I have my exams on I am going to have to miss it because of that.

[h0ughy]

did you finally work this out Mike? it will be fully clouded out and raining in Newcastle and the forecast for brissy is for clear skies - so Al and i are looking to board a plane wednesday night and fly up there - do the eclipse and then fly home later on thursday? that kangaroo point looks ok - totality is at 6.12am. So have to work out how to get from airport to there?

[GrahamL]

there used to be some ok spots for photgraphy around bowen terrace new farm, much like river terrace your on top of a cliff face .
(Edit) the street view still looks promising around wilsons outlook
http://maps.google.com.au/maps?hl=en&rlz=&q=bowen+terrace+new+farm&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x6b91598ae121f1b3:0x3842fbfe 58f004e8,Bowen+Terrace,+New+Farm+QL D&gl=au&ei=4Vr0TZyMLIr0vwOfvsnkBg&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&ct=image&resnum=1&ved=0CCYQ8gEwAA

only with the bridge and city in front of you though I havn't been there for many years so don"t know of buildings and tree situation, the view i can find looks down at that park area you first mentioned ,very close to where I was born, I think you would find a wall of buildings in front of you from down there.

Good luck a low is forming somewhere off the coast , hopefully the rain
nicks off by mid-week.

[iceman]

I still haven't decided. I was hoping some other Brisbanites would come in with their ideas.

The forecast looks ok for Brisbane so far.



That looks ok actually.
Check out this street view (http://maps.google.com.au/maps?hl=en&q=bowen+terrace+new+farm&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Bowen+Terrace,+New+Farm+Queen sland&gl=au&ll=-27.4631,153.038929&spn=0.004455,0.021136&z=16&layer=c&cbll=-27.463091,153.038927&panoid=PaKx8slAmIR7cgxZWdHT-Q&cbp=11,206.15,,0,1.74)
Big ugly bridge in the way but it might be good :)
Check out the panoramio photos on that street view, could be nice.

Also check out the attached view from sceneplanner.com - shows my Canon 40D with a 17-70mm lens @17mm, and the green line is the direction of the Moon Set.

So I should be able to fit the city plus the Moon.

I think that's my preferred spot unless someone can show me a better one.

And it's close to the city too so will be good to get to where I need to afterwards, and getting to the lookout at 4am!

[oosh]

I've yet to find a spot really.. I'm wondering if the top of Mt Coot-tha has any decent spots for the angle we're after. Hey, that scene planner thing looks pretty nifty Mike ;) Another is "the photographers ephemeris', though you're probably aware of that one.

[iceman]

Sceneplanner.com is great! I discovered it a few weeks ago.

[oosh]

Checking it out now Mike - cheers :D

[Dennis]

Hi Guys

I’ve been away on business for a few days so have missed some of the happenings in here. Unfortunately, I’ve never really chased W horizon events so I’m not familiar with good locations. Mt Coot-tha is great for Sun & Moon rise but to the West, not so good – a tree line I think?

I just placed a marker on the Story Bridge and drew a line on a bearing of 243 degrees and it seems to fit in the CBD nicely.

Do any of the Brissie locals know if you can set up tripods on the Story Bridge? Whilst there is enough physical room on the walkway, it will likely cause (grumpy?) pedestrians to have to step around your tripod legs and I think that cyclists pass through there as well, so that could be a major problem?:question:

In addition, road traffic may cause vibrations.:(

Cheers

Dennis

[oosh]

I can't answer any of your questions Dennis, but if you find out about the Story Bridge please let us know :) I'm kind of hoping to find a compromise closer to home, but we'll see.

[CometGuy]

Bowen Tce would be a great place to photograph the Eclipse...here is a shot I took a few years ago from there.

Terry

[Dennis]

Hi Dave

The road across the top at Kangaroo Point does offer parking and set up space, but it looks like you will miss the Brisbane CBD as foreground interest.

The (granite?) rock wall at the top of the cliffs appears to be magnetic as it caused the compass needle to swing wildly.

First photo is the view you would get from most places along the road.

The pano (2nd photo) is very deceiving. The baseline of the 4-pane pano is 180 degrees with S facing Left and N facing R. As you can see, the Moon will completely miss the CBD.

Using the “fist width = 10 degrees rule”, the tops of the larger buildings are approx. 10-15 degrees above the horizon.

Hope that helps.

Cheers

Dennis

[GrahamL]

For a similar aspect several kms from the city , main ave in balmoral could be worth a look , I have seen people with cameras along the top of the ridge over the years, but you'd likely want to check it out first before heading there, re power lines and trees

[iceman]

Is that a panorama, Terry?
Looks like a good spot.

[Dennis]

Hi Jason

We took a walk on the Story Bridge starting from the south side and discovered that the early section of on-ramp (up to Story Bridge Hotel site) seemed quite solid but once we got onto the bridge proper, it shook significantly with heavy traffic. Under those conditions, sub ½ second exposures would blur.

The view here is looking West over the stone/masonry/brick wall which later becomes a shoulder height steel railing. Again, there were some magnetic variations on the stone wall depending on where I placed the compass.

The negatives are that you would be on the footpath, taking up half the width on a footpath used by pedestrians and cyclists in both directions. At 5:00am I’m not sure how much pedestrian/cyclist traffic there would be, or even the legality of setting up a tripod.

The nice feature about the more stable on-ramp section is that you could walk left to right for probably +- 100 metres to frame the Moon appropriately between the high rise buildings in the CBD.

Cheers

Dennis

[oosh]

Thanks for the info Dennis. I've decided I'll steer clear of the city, and try my luck somewhere around these parts - hopefully can find a clearing with enough horizon view for when it reaches totality. Cheers mate :)

[Dennis]

Hi Mike

We took a drive along Bowen Terrace from where it begins at the Story Bridge, for some 500 metres there appears to be several spots that look promising.

From the section bounded by Harcourt Street and Wilson Outlook Reserve, you can fine-tune your position, although in some spots you will be standing on a cycle path so care is needed. At Wilson Outlook Reserve, there is no problem – I have attached a photo showing the metal fence at this location, just where Kent Street meets Bowen Terrace. This 2nd shot shows my position from where I shot the 1st shot.It looks a safe place of town from what we saw.

I’m not sure if the Story Bridge is illuminated at night – if so, it might just add to the composition.

Cheers

Dennis

[Dennis]

This is the view from Bowen Terrace nearer to Harcourt Street; that is, closer to the Story Bridge.

Again, Canon 7D with 17-40mm F4L at 17mm.

Cheers

Dennis

[iceman]

Thanks for that info Dennis, that's awesome.

That's definitely where I'll go.

[h0ughy]

Dennis you are a complete legend!!!! Fandoublytastic

[h0ughy]

at 6.12am the moon is at about 6.5 degrees above the horizon - will that clear the buildings do you think?

[Dennis]

Here are a few more orientation photos, as I guess it will be dark when you arrive!

Cheers

Dennis

PS – Isn’t it Origin 2 as well????

[Dennis]

Hi Dave

Using my fist as a rough measuring guide, I think that for the lower buildings, the Moon would likely vanish at around 10 degrees. If it happens to hit one of the tallest structures, it might well vanish at 15-20 degrees, so be prepared to be there early.

Aim for coverage to begin with the Moon at least 20 degrees above the horizon and try to place it between the larger structures.

Cheers

Dennis

[h0ughy]

yeah it is - NSW will probably loose so no problems there - its only football. This is however an astronomical event - and deserves more respect ;):thumbsup:

[iceman]

Just found out I'm staying at Baildon St, Kangaroo Point on Tue and Wed night. Looks like about a 2km walk to Wilson Outlook Reserve - could probably walk instead of taxi.

I'll check it out on Tuesday night I guess.

[Dennis]

Hi Mike

Hmm, we saw some high-rise apartment buildings in that area on our sojourn today. If you are staying in one of the taller of the numerous tower blocks, maybe you could get onto the roof, or better still, arrange a transfer to the Penthouse Suite. The views would be amazing!;)

Cheers

Dennis

[[1ponders]]

Dave why not just fly to Maroocydore and hire a car to drive to Obi Obi Lookout up behind Mapleton or anywhere along the mapleton range. Better than stuffin' around in Brissie. 400m up and nice clear views. Or drive out to Witta behind Maleny

[h0ughy]

i dont think i have a direct flight to there - will check out that option

[[1ponders]]

plenty fly in there everyday from Snydney. Not sure about up your way. Even so its worth the drive. Even closer to Bris there would be some great spots. Hell you could ask a Kilcoy local where a good spot would be ;)

[h0ughy]

it will cost me a small fortune - so thats out over 900

[jjjnettie]

Visitors are always welcome here in Kilcoy.
I'm childless this week, so I have 2 spare beds available. A very short drive to the top of my hill and there's a panoramic view to the west. :D

[h0ughy]

looking at the forcast is like predicting lotto at the moment. According to several sources it looks like wednesday will be clouded and storms about and thursday morning will be cloudy in patches? Is it worth the risk. Now thinking about fly drive up to mapleton area? Need to make my call very soon. the other thing is that flights have been canned in some cases due to the ash cloud Victoria way which has affected flights north. i love my hobby sometimes.....but it does make one have some interesting choices? Mike/Dennis as you see i am iffy and probably wont be where you are in town if i go. JJJ i have been conversing with the man of knowledge (ponders) so i hope to have some news soon

[h0ughy]

ok booked my flight and car hire - on my way up to see you Paul

[[1ponders]]

I look forward to catching up Dave.

[jjjnettie]

:)

[iceman]

Good luck Dave!

I just flew into Brisbane.

Drove across the Story bridge on my way to my hotel and saw how close the city is to where I was planning to photograph from. Wondering if it's TOO close now. You really would lose the moon quite early if it happened to be behind one of the tall buildings.

I wonder if somewhere along Kingsford Smith Dr might be better, viewing across the river with the city in the background. Check the attached.

Not sure if you can get on the golf course?

Maybe attachment 2 would be ok? There's a path along the river that you could setup with a view there, maybe? here? (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Kingsford+Smith+Drive,+Eagle+Farm ,+Queensland,+Australia&aq=0&sll=-33.401094,151.363792&sspn=0.009261,0.021136&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Kingsford+Smith+Dr,+Eagle+Far m+Queensland,+Australia&ll=-27.439164,153.057232&spn=0.004456,0.021136&t=h&z=16&layer=c&cbll=-27.439171,153.057225&panoid=JGok6QJey2s6POeXpfp0dg&cbp=11,214.01,,0,0)

Thoughts big D or anyone else?

[jjjnettie]

Get Dave to pick you up on the way through Mike. Head west you man!

[Dennis]

Hi Mike

The Brisbane River has more bends than the Alpe d'Huez and you don’t have to stray too far from the CBD for it to disappear from view.

I sent you a PM as I am free most of Wed arvo. Give me a call before 9:00pm tonight.

Cheers

Dennis

[h0ughy]

thanks Mike - while the city might offer a million dollar view i woould prefer a more unobstruced view to the west - hence my decision, and beside with tour guide Paul on hand i am sure i will find where the moon is ;)

[GrahamL]

The sailing club beside the 'small' the golf course at quay st bulimba has open grass on the river bank its across the river from the eagle farm spot you have marked good luck hills and buildings make it a little tough .

Pity you havn't a little more time to look over some spots,though likely from a home on top of the ridge at bamoral this pic pretty much covers the view , could you find a similar view to shoot roadside ? .. maybe !

[spacezebra]

Albury is looking good, camera gear ready to go!

Cheers Petra d.:D

[Dennis]

This photo (http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/906770.jpg)appears to have been taken from one of the tower blocks on the E side of Story Bridge (from Google Earth).

Cheers

Dennis

[callingrohit]

Hi David,

So where are you heading in the end, kilcoy ?

Hi Mike,

Thanks for pointing to this discussion. Seems like the position of the lunar eclipse is making it very difficult to get a good area.

I myself haven't decided yet.

[iceman]

Interesting! If you can get the moon between the buildings it might turn out nice but depends on the ability to move left and right from where we want to setup.

[iceman]

What about Vic Lucas Park? Street view doesn't get me in the right spot so it's hard to tell if you can see the city buildings from there or if the foreground terrain is in the way.

[callingrohit]

Thanks for this location. I might be heading here.

[iceman]

hmm I think I can answer my own question.

http://www.demotix.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/large_610x456_scaled/photos/554521.jpg

Can see the city, but it's fairly obscured by closer buildings.

[DavidTrap]

Lots of cloud there too Mike.

The shot you desire is going to be from one of the expensive pieces of real estate on Hamilton Hill- I'm not aware of any parks up there.

Any of the shots down by the river are going to be tight with respect to the low angle when the moon reaches totality.

DT

[Dennis]

According to Starry Night Pro, the Az/Alt coordinates for the Moon for Brisbane 16th June are as follows:

4:00am Azimuth=259°, Altitude=32°
5:00am Azimuth=254°, Altitude=19°
6:00am Azimuth=248°, Altitude=7°

Azimuth uses True North so if we use a compass to settle on magnetic North, then the corresponding indications from the compass will be:

4:00am =248°
5:00am =243°
6:00am =237°

(Based on Brisbane mag var of 11°)

Provided there are no tall buildings blocking that sector of the sky, it should be good to go.:)

Cheers

Dennis

[Analog6]

Stellarium shows the eclipse starting at about 0521 for me, does this sound right. I have set it up with my latitude and longitude, and I am usually up at 0430 anyway, so I might as well photograph it.

Another time lapse candidate, again, any suggestions for interval duration? Would every 15 secs be OK?

[Dennis]

Just playing around with Google Earth and their line drawing tool, which provides a value for a line bearing, I estimate that the Moon’s position at 5:00am in my previous photo taken from the Story Bridge will be as illustrated in the attached files. Moon not to scale!:)

Cheers

Dennis

[icytailmark]

i have a perfect view of the western horizon but of course its gunna be raining in sydney :(

[mithrandir]

Fred Espenak's times (http://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/OH/OH2011.html#LE2011Jun15T) converted for Aus/NZ. Some of these will be after local moon set.

UTC AEST ACST AWST NZST
Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 17:24:34 03:24:34 02:54:34 01:24:34 05:24:34
Partial Eclipse Begins: 18:22:56 04:22:56 03:52:56 02:22:56 06:22:56
Total Eclipse Begins: 19:22:30 05:22:30 04:52:30 03:22:30 07:22:30
Greatest Eclipse: 20:12:37 06:12:37 05:42:37 04:12:37 08:12:37
Total Eclipse Ends: 21:02:42 07:02:42 06:32:42 05:02:42 09:02:42
Partial Eclipse Ends: 22:02:15 08:02:15 07:32:15 06:02:15 10:02:15
Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 23:00:45 09:00:45 08:30:45 07:00:45 11:00:45
It's currently raining here at about 7mm/hr. I don't hold much hope for tomorrow.

[Dennis]

And the views from Wilson Reserve could look something like this...:)

Cheers

Dennis

PS - Moon not to scale of course!

[mithrandir]

The local astro group were planning to watch from the side of Old Northern Rd opposite Oakhill College, nothing to the west until the Blue Mountains, but if the rain keeps going like it is now we'd probably wind up in a landslip 50 m down the hill.

[troypiggo]

G'day guys, just noticed this thread. I had similar thoughts about Storey Bridge tonight, but was also trying to remember this spot I had shot the city from at Hamilton (IIRC) up on a hill. I think it was near a water tower or park or some public utility (I know, memory bad), and I think it would have a great aspect in terms of Moon over the city using a telephoto lens and getting some good compression. But I've just been looking around Google Maps and Nearmap and can't locate the spot at the moment. Anyone know where I'm talking about?

[DavidTrap]

There is a water reservoir up there somewhere???

DT

Found this on Google Maps - Bartleys Hill Reserve (http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=hamilton+qld&aq=&sll=-25.335448,135.745076&sspn=72.459715,135.087891&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Hamilton+Queensland&ll=-27.432042,153.052211&spn=0.036795,0.065961&t=h&z=15&layer=c&cbll=-27.431847,153.051847&panoid=j2ZAGClsYaSmOR2JIPbFgw&cbp=12,212.58,,0,6.17)

Might be a goer!

[troypiggo]

Found it. Bartley's Hill Reserve - http://maps.google.com.au/maps?ll=-27.432232,153.051615&spn=0.002628,0.005853&t=h&z=18&lci=com.panoramio.all

There's a little lookout there with a view through some trees. Telephoto lens 135mm or something might be nice.

[Dennis]

Hi Troy

Thanks for the suggestion – we must make a database of these places so we can plan for future events!

I just plotted what I think would be the bearings for the eclipse, (259 to 248 degrees) and from Bartleys Hill Reserve, you would be looking out over Ashgrove and therefore miss the CBD?:shrug:

However, an independent review of my assumptions and calculations would not go amiss in case I am spreading misinformation!:question:

Cheers

Dennis

[troypiggo]

Oh sure! If you want to get all technical on me, I was looking forward to imaging the eclipse over Ashgrove. :) Might use a telephoto and shoot into Peter's (peter_4059) bedroom... different sort of full moon that would be... ick.

Please disregard my suggestion as I'm a goose.

[Dennis]

Hey Troy

Don’t be so hard on yerself….contributors are never gooses….or should that read geases!:lol:

Looks cloudy outside right now, I hope it stays clear and that Sir H0ughy managed to get to his chosen location.:)

Cheers

Dennis

[callingrohit]

anyone planning to go here,

http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=&daddr=-27.326986,153.008357&hl=en&geocode=&mra=mift&mrsp=1&sz=18&sll=-27.327093,153.008507&sspn=0.003279,0.006866&ie=UTF8&ll=-27.327093,153.009531&spn=0.003279,0.004823&t=h&z=18

Looks decent when street map is seen towards the farm.

[Analog6]

Thanks for that - it was of course totality that Stellarium was showing. So far good weather here, keeping my fingers and toes crossed.

[troypiggo]

All good, mate. :)

So are you setting up tonight? Over the bridge as per those earlier posts?

[alan meehan]

I hope you guys in qld can get some shots of this eclipse was just looking at the satelite and looks like cloud heading your way ,totally clouded out here gale force winds and terrential rain .Houghy left at lunchtime and was heading up to ponders pauls place hope he can get some shots from there good luck

[jenchris]

I have a chance from my garden over the side of Tamborine Mountain

[callingrohit]

http://www.bom.gov.au/gms/IDE00035.latest.shtml

The above picture does not look promising for tomorrow at all....

[spacezebra]

Still a go here in Albury :D

Cheers Petra d.

[troypiggo]

Most inconsiderate of this eclipse to be occurring on the same night as Origin, too. Couldn't they shift the eclipse to a Friday or something? :D

[alan meehan]

Cheers Petra looks like you guys might be the only ones to to get a clear view.
AL

[Liz]

All go for go in North Qld too. :thumbsup:

[iceman]

Weather forecast looks ok for Brisbane by tomorrow morning.

Dennis and I just did some recon and saw the Moon rising very low on the horizon, looked brilliant over the brisbane river.

We checked out a few spots, including:

1. Wilsons Outlook Reserve
2. Kingsford smith drive at Hamilton
3. Northshore Riverside Park

#2 and #3 are good, but the Moon will be too far to the 'right' of the city, and would require a wide lens to get the city and the Moon in the FOV. Ok for some shots but might not be revealing enough. The good thing is, we can see the Moon until lower on the horizon, and could get some nice reflections off the river.

#1 looks ok from the lookout, but we just lose the Moon a little earlier behind the buildings.

The only other spot we thought might be ok is at Bulimba, as it's high and faces the right direction but we didn't drive there to check it out. Will have a look on streetview.

For now, I think we'll go for #1 still.

[dreamdiver]

Hi i'm a UQ student who cant drive so am wondering if anyone going out to look at the eclipse will be able to pick me up from St Lucia.

I can help carry equipment, I can make a hot drink to bring along/pack sandwiches...and I also work part time at a massage place so I can offer a shoulder/neck massage if needed :)

as u can tell, I am really hoping I can get to see this eclipse, so if anyone can help please email me? thank you very much :)
- jen

[meg]

I was thinking that from Bribie Island across the Pumicestone Passage might be nice, but I have no idea how to work out whether the angle would mean the moon was in the right place or not?

[oosh]

http://photoephemeris.com/ - may your sun and moonrise/set never be in question again!

[StephenM]

Hi Jen,

If you're at UQ, I'd suggest walking over the Green Bridge to Dutton Park. You should get a nice view of the eclipsed Moon reflected in the river from there.

Good luck!

Cheers,
Stephen

[troypiggo]

What time you guys going to Wilson's? I'd be keen to do it in a group that time of night in that area.

[peter andre]

I live in Albany creek , ( a NW suburb of Brisbane), only 10kms from City. Have just about uninterupted views of Bunya mountains.
My horizon will be the contour of the mountain ridges in the background.
my viewing point will be from "the Jinker Track".
wish you all good luck and hopefully the skies will be clear!!
I am off to bed now.
Peter

[Octane]

I have something special planned for tomorrow morning, provided I wake up on time and can brave the cold... freezer suit!

Praying for /some/ cloud.

H

[spacezebra]

Yup looking good so far Al, just hope that I don't sleep through the alarm :)

Looks like Brisbane is also in the clear (good luck guys). :)

95736 Test shot ED 80 and 20D



Cheers Petra d.

[spacezebra]

Excellent Liz:D




Cheers Petra d.

[Dennis]

This is the view outside just now, (7:42pm AEST), with the 7D and the 400mm F5.6 lens. Looking good for the total eclipse in just 8-9 hours time…must get some sleep now, meeting Mike at (yawn!) 4:00am…zzzzzzz!

Cheers

Dennis

[Liz]

Have felt ill the last hour as couldnt find my cable release. Searched the houses many timnes, and have finally just found it in a box that I had searched MANY times.

Anyway, time to relax and go to bed.

Good luck all. :thumbsup:

[troypiggo]

Dennis/Mike - I'm picking up Jen from St Lucia 3am, hoping to be there for 3.25am.

[iceman]

See you guys in the morning. Gonna be a looong day.

[Dennis]

Just off to get my beauty sleep now….

Do not forget red light head torches, warm clothing & footwear, spare batteries, spare memory cards, cable releases, compass, iPod, iPad, etc.

Sleep well!:)

Cheers

Dennis

[jjjnettie]

Well we're hitting the sack now to get 2 hours kip before heading up to Witta to set up.
Good luck everyone, clear skies. !

[[1ponders]]

About the only cloud in the state is over my head atm. But I think it will clear. :D

[Dennis]

Is that an oblique reference to Sir H0ughy?:lol:

Have a great eclipse!:)

Cheers

Dennis

[Octane]

Looks like crap here.

Could do with the sleep. Not sure what to do!

H

[Analog6]

Beautiful clear skies here, but a low bank of cloud to the west - have to see how it shapes up.

[OICURMT]

High level clouds here....

We will be able to see it... but as for good shots... 50/50.

OIC!

[mozzie]

well iv'e awoke to heavy rain...!!!!!!! what else floods all week and still heavy rain!!!!!! i must be crazy..heading down the road to a westerly site hopefully there maybe a part in the rain to get a glimpse!!!!!! let's hope i don't get flooded out and can't get back...ooohhhh for the joy of astronomy.....
may also see a darkening of the clouds as it gets into it's eclipse

[asimov]

Clear as here, but I still rate my chances for any 'glorious pics' of this event as buckleys & none.

2/10 seeing at best, & with the low alt. of the moon already....Back to bed for me:lol:

I'll look forward to everyones shots later today:thumbsup:

[Brundah1]

G'day Liz,

Just setting up on our western balcony.

Beautiful stable sky here ATM, 11Deg & 10knot NW wind just sprang up, so a bit chilly outside, well it is for Queenslanders.

Shame about last night, but Locky will seal the deal at home in the classic Queenslander way!

I'm off to make a brew. Hope you get some good shots.

David :thumbsup:

[bartman]

Grrr just had to pull my camera in side!
I was attempting to take a series of shots-timelapse ( every 5 mins) and had rigged up a plastic bag around the camera, but it started to drizzel and then a few bigger drops. Did'nt want to risk it!
It seemed also that every time the camera was taking the shots the clouds were in front of the moon!!!!!
maybe a bit later.....
Bartman

[Liz]

Yaaaaaaaaawwnn.

Making coffee, then heading off in 5 min, only have 5 min to get there.

Hi David :hi: - hope the views OK from the balcony. :thumbsup:

10 dg here inm Townsville. :help:

[supernova1965]

I am sitting comfortable in my computer chair right next to the window perfect view of the moon just noticing the begining now 10 outside and 16 inside agh nice and comfortable:D

[Red Nine]

Took an hour long drive up to Mount Tamborine, found a lovely lookout west. Just waiting for a little bit of high cloud to pass and we'll be a go. Really looking forward to this!

[bartman]

just bucketed down.......still not happy....
bartman
ps just realised this thread is for Queensland views..... :)

[DavidTrap]

Clear as a bell here! Boys down by the river will be cold!

DT

[spacezebra]

Albury - clear as a bell:D

Cheers Petra d.

[bartman]

Nice one DT, first off the rank!!!!!!
Cheers
Bartman

[Bobj]

From NW of Mackay, it's nice to see the moon going into shadow and an iridium flare then to be able to see Andromeda in one sweep of the binos...:thumbsup:

Cheers, Bobj.

[mozzie]

had a 10 second view through lightish cloud with shadow half across the moon ...then heavy rain again no chance of seeing anymore :shrug::mad2:...

well there's always december :thumbsup:better position in the sky too....

[glenc]

Great image David. I just looked at the eclipse with 12x60 binos, the bit from the 3pm to the 6pm position in your image was yellowish and it was orange from the 6pm to the 9pm position. It was hard to pick the edge of the Moon at the darkest part.

[Octane]

Up a mountain. Clouds cleared as totality began. Looking beautiful. Just shooting with 200mm with 1.4x extender to give 280mm. Really windy and cold. I'm just hoping for cloud to clear the horizon for twilight/dawn/sunrise.

H

[Brundah1]

Fantastic sight from NW BNE clear sky - right until prior sunrise then Moon just became a faint reddish glow, but down in the treetops.

BTW beautiful sunrise deep red ATM.

Cheers to all early risers,

David

[Liz]

Just got back .... all I can say is stunning, stunning, stunning!! The highlight from my dark site was when the Milky Way popped out above the Moon. Sky was clear, a early morning to remember, and a wonderful start to the day.
Think I got some great images, as long as they are focused properly. :question:

[Liz]

Just a quick one from the camera - look at that Milky Way!! A little meteor too. :D

[iceman]

Beautiful morning, but damn cold by the river.

We ended up with about 5-6 people and about 10 cameras all clicking away :)

Looked lovely - very deep and very dark, much darker than what I remember from 2007.

[glenc]

Nice image Liz.

[supernova1965]

Show off OH its just a quick one from the camera.

Nice one

[callingrohit]

What a fantastic morning and a beautiful clear sky showing off the lunar eclipse. Just amazing.

Awesome pic Liz. What location were you at, was this from Sunshine coast ? Could you share your camera settings ?

I had major issues with dew setting on my lenses causing blurry images. Hopefully some are good.

[DavidTrap]

Very impressive Liz

DT

[spacezebra]

Stunning pic Liz

What were your settings?



Skies in Albury were crystal clear, up since 3am and - brilliant views.

Cheers Petra d.

[Liz]

Many thanks. :) I am hopeless at the beautiful close up images like David, did give it a bit of a go, but deleted them. This one was much easier.
I was about 30 km north of Townsville, and a fairly dark spot.
From memory, I pushed this image to ISO 1600, 17mm, f 3.6, for 35 sec at least. ;)
Shame about the dew, I was worried took but air was pretty dry luckily.

[callingrohit]

One of my snaps after full eclipse (no post processing)

[mozzie]

lovely image liz...nice meteor to the bottom left :thumbsup:

[M54]

What a great photo Liz!:eyepop:

Eclipse, Milky Way AND a Meteor!

[Dennis]

Yawn – good morning all!

Here is a sample of my efforts from a rather cool morning by the Brisbane River, tagging along with Mike (Iceman), Troy (Troypiggo), a couple of new friends that Troy found, plus a plethora of itinerant photographers that turned up at regular intervals. Needless to say, we astronomers had already bagged the best spots!:P

I felt sorry for Mike and Troy as we bade farewell, as both have a full days work ahead of them, not to mention the return flight home for Mike.

Oh the joys of a 3-day week!:)

It was great meeting up with Mike, our first face-to-face encounter since I joined IIS several years ago. I was glad to be able to show him some Qld hospitality, acknowledging the time, energy and effort he has poured into creating such a vibrant on-line and real-world community that is today’s Ice In Space.:thumbsup:

The only rather unsavoury event that marred an otherwise perfect morning was those rotten cockroaches winning Origin 2! I am so glad that Sir H0ughy wasn’t there in person to gloat!:lol:

Cheers

Dennis

[scagman]

Great shots people.
I'm glad I posted my shots in another thread before I saw these shots, I wouldn't have bothered:lol:, these look really good.
Well done all.

[callingrohit]

Awesome pics Dennis.

Would you kindly share your camera settings for the second pic ?

Also, how did you avoid the dew issue ? Or it wasn't a issue at all in the city.

I dont think I got a good focussed total eclipse snap. Will have to hunt through the shoot.

[firstlight]

Great shots Dennis, I posted a few shots on a thread in the Solar System forum. If the position I chose from Google Earth didn't prove suitable I was going to gate-crash your party... I did alright... happy with my results.

Here's a couple I didn't post on the other thread.

[callingrohit]

Fantastic pictures Tony esp the second one.

Could you kindly tell me your settings on getting such a great focussed shot ?

Do let me know the camera type and lens aswell.

I had miserable time focussing on the eclipse shots.

[Dennis]

Thanks for the nice words.

To slow down the onset of the inevitable dew, I used the deep lens hoods of the telephoto lenses and the shallower lens hood of the wide-angle lens. In addition, I placed a thin, stiff foam mat over the top of the wide-angle lens to “shield” the lens from the sky above.

I used this device, Flare Buster (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/150798-REG/Granview_FB98XL_Flare_Buster_Kit_Ex tra.html), which fits in the camera hot shoe and provides you with a spring clip at the end of a flexible arm. Also, I used Live View x10 to manually focus the lens.

Photo details for #2 provided in the screen capture.

Cheers

Dennis

[firstlight]

I was going to hook the camera to th elaptop and use Focus Assist or EOS Utility via Live View to focus... walked back to the car once already to get the laptop... forgot the cable!

I did what Dennis did, that is I used Live View at 10x to get focus on the spokes of the wheel... effective infinity. Modded Canon 450D, 70 to 300 mm lens @ 300 mm, ISO 800, f5.6, 0.6 sec.

[Liz]

Focus can be very tricky and frustrating. I was so glad when 'most' of mine cam out Ok. IN the past I have pics which I thought would be fabulous, only to get them home and find them blurred. :sad:
The liveview makes it a bit easier on the Canon, but still not foolproof.
I sometimes cant even find a bright star to zoom in to focus, rrrgh, and can take me ages.
Some do it on the laptop, but not sure how thats done.
Good luck though, and keep trying, youir images were good. :thumbsup:

[h0ughy]

beautiful shots Dennis

[callingrohit]

Thank you Dennis. The dew buster techniques certainly sounds attractive. The lens hood didn't even occur to me but yes, will be using it.

Could you explain more on lines of what you meant by x10 in Live View ?

Live view was introduced I think from 450D onwards and doesn't exist on 400D. So I'm stuck with shoot and learn.



Thanks Firstlight. Does Focus Assist work on non-modded Canon's ? Will hunt on this, so thanks for pointing me in the right direction.



Thank you for the encouragement Liz. I wish to capture the milky way too on my 400D, someday when I have time to just go to country side away from urban light pollution.

Saying that I was pretty surpised that with ISO 1600 and a 35 sec exposure, there was no star tracks. Did you photograph via a tracked telescope ?

[callingrohit]

I was just wondering if the moderators of this forum would agree on creating a database for metropolitans and surrounding areas (country side) to view the dark skies and also may be good lookouts.

Don't get me wrong it was very exciting to scout for a place to view today's eclipse but the database might just help amateurs and beginners to quickly get into the car even if they came to know, just 2 hours before an event was about to occur.

This thread itself has a lot of locations for viewing a west facing lunar eclipse in Brisbane.

One of the members also mentioned Witta, but where exactly. One can also attach a sample view from that spot.

What are your opinions ?

[Dennis]

Here is a collage of 25 photos taken at 5-minute intervals.

Cheers

Dennis

[Liz]

Saying that I was pretty surpised that with ISO 1600 and a 35 sec exposure, there was no star tracks. Did you photograph via a tracked telescope ?[/QUOTE]

Ah, no, its amazing what you can get away with. ;) Depends on what part of the sky it is, I must check this officially. I had some images over 1 min (answering phoe calls) which were waaay too long.

[Liz]

OH Dennis, that is magnificent. :thumbsup:

[callingrohit]

Dennis, just one thing --- :prey2:

And I just realised Mike hasn't shown off his snaps yet...oh boy !!!!

more :eyepop: and :jawdrop:to follow !!!

[StephenM]

Great stuff Dennis! Looks like you guys had a great spot.

Cheers,
Stephen

[firstlight]

You know, when I left i nthe morning I was a bit concerned about dew and it was only when I was reading this thread that I realised the I had NO problem with dew. Of course I had a metre of concrete above my head in the form of the Riverside Expressway :lol:

[Dennis]

And here is one more from the Brisbane Branch of the Ice In Space eclipse chasing team!

Are you with AAMI?;)

Cheers

Dennis

[iceman]

Everyone's shots are brilliant!

Love yours Dennis, but there's some real jpeg compression going on. Are you sure your images are under 200kb when you upload them? Even if they're a single byte over 200kb, the forum will squish them some more.

It was just great catching up with Dennis, who showed real hospitality picking me up, dropping me off, taking me on a tour to try and find the best spot to photograph the eclipse. I really appreciated it and it was so great to meet him after all these years.

It was also great to meet Troy and have our eclipse photography team on the edge of the river yesterday morning. Much better than being there on my own!

My shots will probably be very similar to Dennis', and like I said to him, my problem at the moment is finding time to PROCESS images! I get them off the camera quickly, but putting together montages etc, I just find it difficult to get the time.

Hopefully I can start posting some in the next few days.

But they will be similar to Troy's, and Dennis' and likely not as good :)

Great seeing so many images.

[Dennis]

Hi Mike

Good to see you made it back home and thanks for the guided tour of all your portable digital devices!:P

I’ve just checked the file sizes and they are mostly under 150KB so the Forum upload is probably not the cause of this.:shrug:

Look forward to seeing your results when you catch up on some sleep and family time. Didn’t Troy look dashing in his dressing gown!:lol:

Cheers

Dennis

[troypiggo]

Great shots everyone! Just posted my take here (http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?p=733423#post733423) .

Good to catch up with you again, Dennis, and finally meet Mike! An honour.

:lol: re: the dressing gown. It was the only thing I could put my hands on as I walked out the door. You'll recall I didn't put it on until that other guy and his girlfriend turned up in their dressing gowns and pajamas! :D

[Dennis]

We took a walk today, along the pedestrian walkway on the new Sir Leo Hielscher Bridge (2nd Gateway Bridge) and I grabbed a couple of shots from the top, looking back (West) towards the CBD. For astronomical event purposes, the views are severely obstructed by the tall railings, so not a good vantage point for astro-CBD related events.

One is a wide view, the other a telephoto view with the 3rd shot being a heavily distorted pano of the two bridges from their undersides.

The railings that lead up to the bridge are not obscured but as soon as you reach the bridge proper, it is impossible to look out as the railings tower some 2 metres over your head. At each of the 4 lookout bays along the bridge span, there is a token glass window where arguably, you “could” take a photo looking East towards the river mouth and airport.

Cheers

Dennis