Whither the Star Party?

[helicon]

Recently I joined W.A.C.O. - (the local astro club in these parts). The acronym stands for Whatcom Association of Celestial Observers. At about 5:30 p.m. yesterday there was an all hands message from an officer via google groups that the skies might be clear after 7:30 pm! What a momentous occasion! The members were summoned to go to the local dark sky spot with their gear if at all possible. The skies did not get completely dark until after 9:30, though. I passed because there still were some hazy clouds in the sky. I have had 1.5 sessions since March 12 when I arrived in the new environs from California. So, patience is indeed a virtue. Fortunately I have darker skies than most of the membership since I live out of town in the Cascade foothills.

[Butterfly Maiden]

Michael, you might get all the members travelling to your home location to get the benefit of the darker skies once they find out where you are

[helicon]

Michael, you might get all the members travelling to your home location to get the benefit of the darker skies once they find out where you are

Good idea Vanessa.

[Makuser]

Hi Michael. I know the feeling as amateur astronomers propose an event and the skies or health issues dispose. However, I too like the great idea that Vanessa posted in hosting some gatherings at your location. Your skies are probably better plus you're already there. Thanks for your report Michael and the very best of regards.

[Bigzmey]

Driving to a dark site is always a gamble. While most of my trips are successful there are always a few trips per year when I get clouds, rain or smoke. If you have dark sky at home I would capitalize on that as much as possible.

[pakarinen]

Driving to a dark site is always a gamble. While most of my trips are successful there are always a few trips per year when I get clouds, rain or smoke. If you have dark sky at home I would capitalize on that as much as possible.

My "best" dark site "adventure" was when I drove out once and was pretty much surrounded by giant harvesters roaming the fields around me with lights on that looked like aircraft landing lights. Oh well, I only wasted gas and time, right?