I have chosen seven (7) words to describe SPSP14:
(drum roll please.......)
1. FREEZING
This year was far colder than last. I have come home with wind burn and dry lips. On the first night, it was managable, particularly with the assistance of late night port and Wee-Willems (thanks RB). Last night, notwithstanding an amazing selection of Victorian wine and cheeses (thanks Xstream & Anna), it was so cold that I ended up wearing a pair of Bonds Y-front undies on my head (under my cap of course for modesty) to keep out the cold. By about 11.20pm, notwithstanding all manner of body movements to keep warm, I was almost frozen to the core (felt like being stuck in an industrial freezer) that I had to go to bed for my health's sake! According to HOughy, it reached 0.5 degrees at about 3am when he went to bed. A heavy frost greeted us in the morning.
2. BEAUTIFUL
I witnessed some of absolutely stunning treasures in the heavens. On the Friday night, much of the sky was shrouded in heavy drapes, and yet at one incredible stage, for about 15 minutes, a column opened up tracing the line of the Milky Way. Normally under suburban or even semi-rural skies, if the Milky Way is visible it is a haze. But at Ilford, the MW shone through, flashing like a sword. It was a sight I will never forget. On the second night, the sky was clear and dark, sparkling like a newly set crown of jewels. There was so much to see and do, and I felt like a kid in a candy store. Some highlights were the many galaxies in Leo, but special mention for M83 (Southen Pinwheel) and NGC1365 (barred galaxy in Fornax). I saw structure in those objects like never before. Very special indeed.
3. CARED-FOR
We have some great people in the IIS community. I felt very much looked after. Special mention to Xstream and Anna and Spacezebra and David, for their incredible hospitality and warmth, providing us with yummy breakfast this morning, cups of tea and coffee, a friendly place to sit and chat, and fine friendship. Rocket Boy was his usual kind and giving self, supplying cool drinks and Suimins (inter alia), and always with something positive to say. Itchy and his lovely wife Sharon gave me air two nights running (in my mattress, that is!), and were very patient with their neighbours (Mike and I). It was good to share a (large) tent with Mike, who was ever-thoughtful in suffering my silliness (and giving me great company on the various trips we made throughout the weekend). It was great to have the company of a number of others too, especially good to have the company of Chris (33South) and HOughy. Wavelandscott graciously allowed me to use his wife's ticket so I could have a spit roast on the Saturday (thank Scott- I really appreciate that gesture). Also good to spend some time with Alan, Ken and Ian. Nice to meet Gary Bryant, too.
4. CHALLENGING
I had some challenges this year. On arrival I was advised that I was not allowed to participate in the big Lucky Door Prize competition because I had not booked in advance. News to me. I was really looking forward to that event on the Saturday. I was also advised that I was not allowed to participate in the Spit Roast on Saturday. Let's just say I felt like I had Persona Non Grata status, not welcome at all, and rather puzzled with the whole thing. Then the clouds of the first night, a windy bleak night, followed by an air mattress that had a hole in it that left me sleeping (at least trying to) on hard terra firma for the first night. Then, there was the cold! The good cheer of others around me helped me not to allow these set backs from throwing me too much, and I was determined to have a great time and enjoy the stars and my friends. I was really glad for a trip out to Kandos on Saturday morning for a hearty breakfast with some of the IIS gang. That really bouyed my spirits!
5. CREEPY
We had spider issues this year. Funnel webs to be exact. They were littered all around the observing field in their burrows, often no more than 2 or 3 metres apart at a time. It was important to wear closed shoes at all times, and check clothes before putting them on. Still, over time I got used to our arachnid friends. It was a rather interesting co-existence.
6. REVEALING
Apart from a taudry belly dance (which shall never be mentioned again), by this I mean that at various times I had the chance to share at a deeper level with a few of the IIS folk, and that was really good to get better known, and to be known better. I very much enjoyed learning more about everyone in our group, of all ages. It is great to know why we are each interested in astronomy, and to learn from each other in person. As more than 70% of communication is non-verbal, I felt I knew some people a lot better in one weekend than from one year of chatting on the forum.
7. EXHAUSTING
What on earth am I doing sitting here typing this? I should be in bed. I estimate that I had about 4 hours real sleep over the weekend, and being out in the elements over an extended period away from creature comforts takes its toll. Mike and I had a detour on the way home, after a serious MVA on the Bells Line of Road blocked our passage through that part of the Blue Mountains. It was extraordinary, as we watched a rescue helicopter land on the road to come to the urgent rescue of the injured. Living in close community with others can also be tiring after a while. Thank the good Lord for hot showers!
SUMMARY
I am very glad I went to SPSP14. Overall, the highlights were the dark skies and grouse company. May we spend many more star parties together!
Now, off to bed.....