As Trevor mentioned, registrations for the SPSP 2011 are now open. You can register by going to www.asnsw.com/spsp/spsprego.asp
This year the speakers include Matthew Colless (AAO), John Webb (UNSW) and Rita Holland (ASNSW). We'll have all the usual workshops, the astroimaging and telescope maker's competitions, the Saturday prize draw, nightly sky tours if (when!) it is clear, the Saturday roast dinner, vendor displays, the swap meet and much more.
There will also be limited 240V power available at the House observing field for laptops and astroimagers. Generators are also permitted at the House for those who want to bring one. A battery charging station will also be available at the Main Hall.
Rules for the astroimaging competition are being finalised and 2011 rules will be available shortly from www.asnsw.com/spsp/imagingcomp.asp
If you have any questions please feel free to ask them here, PM me or refer to the attached PDF for other contact information.
I hope you can join us at Wiruna this 1st-3rd of April. We'd certainly love to see you there.
For those interested in utilising the "House" at Wiruna, yes, we have have 240v power. We have an off-grid solar power system.
We generally use a generator to top up the house batteries and run the power during the day, then go silent around 9-10pm at night and run the house batteries through the night. Last year we had about 10 scopes and laptops running off the system through the night with no issues.
If you are interested in utilising the House, drop myself or Barry (barrykgerdes) a PM for more info.
For newcomers to amateur astronomy, particularly those in the greater
Sydney region, the South Pacific Star Party is a golden opportunity to
meet fellow enthusiasts and also to look at a large range of telescopes
and observing gear. One of the most common recommendations for those who
have not purchased a scope yet or who are unsure of what type of scope to buy
is to come to an event such as this to have a look first hand and to chat with
the owners. Here is your chance! Don't be shy with simply introducing yourself.
You'll come away with having made some new friends and with Ilford's dark skies,
seen a whole lot of stuff that will have knocked your socks off!
A reminder for anyone going, dont forget that there is a dedicated astro-imaging field along the track to the rear of the property in the western observing field. As well there is a radio telescope that we hope to have working by then
Just ask for directions to "the house" from any of the onsite helpers. It is about 5-10min walk from the main field.
Hi Mike, it will be great to catch up, and the kids will be glad to see your smiling face! What a great night we had at Science at the Pub in Coona that time!
Has anyone had confirmation of there registration payment? I am wanting to make my van reservations and work leave notice and have no idea if I'm even going. Just would like know the organizers have recieved funds for regestration of family of four, site camping, shirt xl and dinner x 4.
Thanks
My apologies as I've given you some wrong information. The early registration cutoff is actually Midnight Friday 11th March and registrations close Midnight Friday 25th March.
Again, I apologise if anyone is inconvenienced by my previous posting.
Wildcard Innovations - SPSP 2011 sponsors - look forward to seeing you there
.
