Quote:
Originally Posted by Rodstar
My wife has remarked that it is a risky business driving 6 or 7 hours in the hope that the sky is clear. This star party is testimony to the fact that it doesn't really matter whether the sky is clear....we amateur astronomers will always find something to amuse us.
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Um Rod
7 hours drive is a minimalist effort. As you know Gary K, Andrew and I travelled over 20,000 miles to Texas to get clouded out.
Having said that, the observing to me at such events is a secondary attraction. As you know I have ready access to premium equipment, good observing buddies and dark skies. I go to "public" star parties to meet people, make new friends and be a part of the whole social scene. The TSP was the best astronomy experience of my life despite only 1.5 clear nights from 7. To me these things are about the social side of astronomy and in this respect both TSP and BSG excelled in every respect.
The Texas Star party which Gary, Andrew and I attended is probably the best run and organised Star party on the planet. So it should be considering the length of time it has been going, the huge number of vounteer workers involved, its access to the massive Prude Ranch, the number of attendees, and the budget they have. BSG in its inaugural year excelled in every respect IMO. The organisation and co-ordination of the entire event from start to finish was superb. The venue, facilities and accomodation were excellent. I think it is a tremendous event that can only grow to be a huge success in the coming years.
A job well done to all involved in the organisation of BSG.
Cheers-John B