I've been speaking to the manager of Katoomba Airfield about the Blue Mountains situation over the last couple of weeks. Things were have started winding down at the Airfield. Last night they had just 6 aircraft stay overnight, well down from the upto 13 they were having last week. Only one sky crane was there last night when last week they had two.
Our regular astro session at the Airfield had been a very fluid one for this coming Saturday. The Airfield manager has given us the OK for our session for this Saturday! While the fires will burn for many weeks still, there is no current threat to the Airfield or surrounds. And while there are still many fire fighters up on the 'Mountains, we have offered these brave folks an astro viewing session at the start of the night as a little way of saying Thank You, and as a small distraction from their labours.
If you feel you could come along with a scope, please do. This is just an informal thank you from us astronomers. More details on the Firies astro night and on the Airfield can be found on the current
Katoomba Airfield thread. Post No. 1 has the Airfield details. Post No.23 has the Firies Night details.
Fingers crossed that the wind blows from the south to keep the smoke away.
Alex.