Visiting Down Under for First Time

[maclark (Michael)]

Hello from a fellow U.S. amateur astronomer,

I'm fortunate that my work is bringing me to Australia for the first time next month; unfortunately it is for only 5 days and I have to be back in the States.

We obviously have a tight schedule, but I do have a couple free nights: one in Canberra on 3 Nov and another one in Cairns on the 6th. I'll be bringing my (cheap) bino's and was wondering if any one has suggestions for special viewing opportunities? We do get to spend one night on a boat over the great barrier reef while in Carins...expect my bino's will get a lot of use there!

Does anyone know of a local club that is meeting on one of my free nights that might be willing to host a fellow astronomer for a quick tour?

Appreciate any recommendations. Many thanks!

Mike

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Hardin 6" DSH
Celestron 11" Nexstar GPS

[erick (Eric)]

Somewhere out of Canberra would be your best option, Mike. Further south than Cairns gives you the southern sky at a higher elevation. I'd be thinking the Carina nebula and 47 Tuc as highlights. Let's see if someone from that area can help you?

[The Mekon (John Briggs)]

I am unsure whether it is still operating, but the Downer Club in north Canberra had a C14 and the members of the local astronomy club used to operate it.

The Downer Club is open to the public and offers all the delights of the typical Aussie club - cold beer, good food, those horrible pokies, as well as an observatory. I take three of of the last four and enjoy the place.

[Greg Bock (Greg Bock)]

Guys, didn't the Downer Club and planetarium burn down recently?

http://the-riotact.com/?p=28509&cpage=1

and

http://the-riotact.com/?p=28541

[maclark (Michael)]

Wow, that's such a shame. I did a google search and found the "Planetarium and Observatory Association of Canbarra." I sent an email and hope I hear something.

Thanks!
Mike

[Jen]

hey Michael

Welcome to Oz buddy i hope you get to enjoy some awsome aussie skies while u are here im sure someone will help you out, good luck cheers