Orpington Astronomical Society

Society => Announcements, Meetings, Events => Topic started by: Mike on Jan 04, 2010, 10:53:49

Title: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010 (CANCELLED)
Post by: Mike on Jan 04, 2010, 10:53:49
Don't forget folks that the first DSC of 2010 is coming up soon from Friday 15th to Monday 18th Jan.

I have to check with Blacklands, but it will be there unless otherwise stated.
Title: Re: Deep Skay Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Carole on Jan 04, 2010, 11:10:27
It's bloody freezing, but might brave it.

Carole
Title: Re: Deep Skay Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Ian on Jan 04, 2010, 11:19:39
bring sledge hammer to knock the tent pegs into the ground...
Title: Re: Deep Skay Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 04, 2010, 11:40:04
No need, just soak the tent in water first and let it freeze in situ.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Simon E on Jan 04, 2010, 12:43:11
Just get a load of towels and stick them around the windows of the car and sleep in the car :o Sat night could be a goer for me, if I get the new laptop and mounting for the guide scope in time.

si
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 04, 2010, 15:55:48
OK have a green light from Phil at Blacklands Farm so Blacklands it is. Bring an extra pair of socks and a bobble hat it might be a tad chilly.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: mickw on Jan 04, 2010, 16:40:16
That's the last time I bribe Phil  :(
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mac on Jan 04, 2010, 17:10:11
QuoteOK have a green light from Phil at Blacklands Farm

you might want to get him to change it to a red light, dosent affect your night vision as much :lol:

Wont be able to make this one, Rhonda's booked James in for the local drowning session at the church, and invited all the family to watch.
Mac.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: mickw on Jan 04, 2010, 17:27:02
Quotedrowning session at the church

If the temperatures keep dropping it'll be more like a skating session  ;)
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: MarkS on Jan 04, 2010, 17:58:25

I'm planning to be there, at Deep Ski Camp.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: The Thing on Jan 04, 2010, 18:36:41
I'm going to be there as long as the roads are passable. I plan to fill the inner tent with duvets and put my feet by the gas stove. Anyone got a sledge?
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Rocket Pooch on Jan 04, 2010, 18:46:35
I should be there now, just need a tow hook on the car  :o
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Tony G on Jan 04, 2010, 22:40:42
I'll be there, hopefully for the Friday night and Saturday night, depending on work. :-?

Tony G
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Tony G on Jan 04, 2010, 23:08:59
I have just found our next project for DSC.  :twisted:

http://www.wimp.com/rcjet/ (http://www.wimp.com/rcjet/)

Tony G
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 04, 2010, 23:48:33
OK so that is at least 5 of us.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 05, 2010, 11:40:28
Quote from: Tony G on Jan 04, 2010, 23:08:59
I have just found our next project for DSC.  :twisted:....

Wow that is one serious RC Jet.

Though I think that standing behind it whilst it takes off is unbelievably stupid. Those engines are firing backwards whatever gets sucked into the front at several hundred miles an hour.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: MarkS on Jan 05, 2010, 13:27:27

Good project - useful for de-icing at Deep Freeze Camp.

Mark
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Fay on Jan 05, 2010, 14:55:05
Gosh, you would have to make sure you could control that one   :(
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mac on Jan 05, 2010, 16:40:25
QuoteI have just found our next project for DSC.  ....
easier one to handle.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ar2tNoF1Iyk&feature=related (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ar2tNoF1Iyk&feature=related)

or even these
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkmaByQrCTA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkmaByQrCTA)
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mac on Jan 11, 2010, 19:40:29
So how many are going to brave the weather?
I cant make it for the weekend, but im going to visit on Friday night, if people are there.

Mac.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Fay on Jan 11, 2010, 21:18:01
Not me, this time Mac, hopefully next time
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 11, 2010, 22:02:15
Unless it is dangerous to get there and back I will be going.

I have emailed Phil at the farm to let me know what the conditions are like and to ensure that all of the facilities are still working.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Carole on Jan 11, 2010, 22:39:56
Too cold for me I'm afraid. 

Carole
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Tony G on Jan 11, 2010, 22:51:41
I'll be there making snow angels......................after some of that weird french stuff, and a couple of brandies.   :-?

Anyway, I need to try out the 5 heaters in the tent, to see which one to use when the weather gets really bad.

Tony G
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: MarkS on Jan 11, 2010, 23:12:46
I'll be at deep freeze sky camp unless travelling is dangerous and I'll bring a bottle of weird French stuff.   Wunderground says it will be much warmer, with temperatures reaching an incredible 7C on Saturday.

Mark
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: The Thing on Jan 12, 2010, 07:44:13
I will be there if it looks like I can get there without writing off the car and there is a small chance of seeing stars without the aid of the 'weird french stuff'.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: RobertM on Jan 12, 2010, 11:33:53
Quotewith temperatures reaching an incredible 7C on Saturday

Nearly T-Shirt weather, do we need to bring any ice...

PS I'd like to turn up but it depends on the chance of a clear sky, will decide later in the week.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: MarkS on Jan 12, 2010, 13:29:18
Quote from: RobertM
Nearly T-Shirt weather, do we need to bring any ice...

No, but I'm sure Mick will bring extra beer ...
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Fay on Jan 12, 2010, 15:02:59
weather not looking promising, for the weekend,  so far
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: mickw on Jan 12, 2010, 15:24:15
QuoteI'm sure Mick will bring extra beer ...

Mick might have to stay at home and drink it all if the weather is pants  ;)

Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Tony G on Jan 12, 2010, 15:31:33
Why is everyone preoccupied with the weather???????????????????
I mean, it's not as if that is a deciding factor for a weekend of partying in the snow, building snow sheep, Steaming hot showers and then running into the snow and skinny dipping in the lake (well, I can't exactly 'skinny' dip) and DRINKING. ;)

Tony G
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mac on Jan 12, 2010, 17:06:10
Quotewell, I can't exactly 'skinny' dip

Tony, its the thought that counts.
we'll all be there in spirit for you whilst you skinny dip.
(http://www.eccentricamerica.com/images/redneckbelyflop1.jpg)
:lol:
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 12, 2010, 19:37:29
Forecast so far is for rain all weekend. I don't mind snow but if it is just going to rain then I won't bother going and will set a new official date for February.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: MarkS on Jan 13, 2010, 09:16:23
Quote from: Mike
Forecast so far is for rain all weekend. I don't mind snow but if it is just going to rain then I won't bother going and will set a new official date for February.

I tend to agree, if the forecast is cloudy skies and rain.  I'll wait and see if the forecast improves.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 13, 2010, 09:31:08
Woke up this morning to more snow. Can't tell where road and pavement ends. All of the footprints have disappeared.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: doug on Jan 13, 2010, 09:52:22

    Yet again we are snowed in.  I suppose that we shall have to get a 4x4 like Fay`s eventually.  Anyone know where I can get a cheap Jeep ?????  Or equivalent four wheel drive vehicle ?????

    Doug.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Ian on Jan 13, 2010, 10:56:16
Actually, I'm selling my Freelander...
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Rocket Pooch on Jan 13, 2010, 12:58:16
I just picked up a cheap jeep thing.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Ian on Jan 13, 2010, 13:29:07
you just can't help yourself...
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Rocket Pooch on Jan 13, 2010, 14:19:42
Well I allways wanted a Nissan Patrol.

Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Ian on Jan 13, 2010, 14:44:16
but not the job with the UN that goes with it?
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Rocket Pooch on Jan 13, 2010, 14:46:27
No but I could paint it white ?
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Ian on Jan 13, 2010, 14:53:09
*looks out of the window*

That'll make it stand out :)
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: JohnP on Jan 13, 2010, 15:53:55
gizza a picture then... Is this for caravan & dog purpose..... decided A6 is too good?
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Rocket Pooch on Jan 13, 2010, 17:48:16
Hi,

Couple of things;

The audi is just no good off road, but it was not really bought for that anyway :-(

This can will only be used for the dog, camping and DSC, unless we get more snow then it will be to wales.

Also I want to go off roading.

And it was too cheap, and LPG, very green.

Also it will make Mac's look tiny and Frodo will have room to walk around.

:-)
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 13, 2010, 18:10:02
It will have to be huge to make Mac's vehicle look tiny.

I can't wait to see this Monster Truck you've bought.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Rocket Pooch on Jan 13, 2010, 18:42:21
here you go, here is one with another small 4x4 next to it.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48VPMipK0DY&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HTjGnx9Wr8&feature=related
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Tony G on Jan 13, 2010, 22:36:37
Well it seems like the big thaw (and I don't mean John  ;)) and the rain, will be turning all that lovely fluffy stuff into that muddy stuff, so it going from cold and hard to soft and wet,  :lipsrsealed: and so was wondering was this DSC being re-scheduled, or was it still going ahead??????????

Tony G
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 13, 2010, 23:18:16
Personally I think we should scrap it and set another date for an official one in February.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: MarkS on Jan 14, 2010, 08:31:10
Quote from: Mike
Personally I think we should scrap it and set another date for an official one in February.

Reluctantly, I agree.  Valentine's weekend?

Mark
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 14, 2010, 08:36:00
Valentines weekend is when there is a New Moon so would be best. it would mean the Imaging Session on the 12th would need to be moved though.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Rocket Pooch on Jan 14, 2010, 08:49:04
Dam I'll have to go and play in the mud on my own.

Or, I could go and get the 4x4 and have a play?

Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: MarkS on Jan 14, 2010, 09:10:16
Given the rain and the melting snow, I'm certain there's no shortage of mud down there.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Tony G on Jan 14, 2010, 11:01:43
What about the weekend before or after the 12th Feb.
I know everyone prefers the DSO's, but it might be good to see the moon and have a little competition on one of the sky camps, and image this, and still have plenty of time to image DSO's.
Just a thought!
I think this is what we all started on. ;)

Tony G

PS..............................Plus I won't be in trouble as well for missing St Valentine's Day. ;) and I think a few others as well.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 14, 2010, 11:17:30
I'm fine with that.

The weekend of the 20/21 the moon is last quarter and goes below the horizon between 2300 and midnight.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: MarkS on Jan 14, 2010, 13:53:01
Quote from: Mike
The weekend of the 20/21 the moon is last quarter and goes below the horizon between 2300 and midnight.

Errr - that doesn't sound right.  The moon is last quarter, agreed, but surely that means it rises very late and gets ever higher until dawn?

Mark
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 14, 2010, 13:55:57
Nope. it is high in the sky during the day, getting lower and below the horizon close to midnight.

(http://www.amateur-astronomy.org/Images/stellarium1.png)
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: JohnP on Jan 14, 2010, 14:26:08
Actually night of 21st it passes right in front of Pleiades around 6-7pm so could be good photo opportunity eh TONY !!!!!


John :-)
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: Mike on Jan 14, 2010, 15:08:22
OK I am taking a decision...

The January DSC is officially cancelled. We will hold another one on the weekend of 19th to 21st February. If you still wish to go down that is up to you.

Rick can you please update the main site.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010
Post by: The Thing on Jan 14, 2010, 15:09:36
Looks like we are set for an early evening team moon in front of the seven sisters then. Could be one for the calendar!
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010 (CANCELLED)
Post by: MarkS on Jan 14, 2010, 15:16:44

Doh!  I'm really not thinking straight today!
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010 (CANCELLED)
Post by: JohnP on Jan 14, 2010, 16:25:22
Here you go - date & time bottom right...

(http://jpastronomy.co.uk/graphics/oas/moon1.jpg)
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010 (CANCELLED)
Post by: Mike on Jan 14, 2010, 16:35:41
Won't be able to get the nebulosity in a picture as the moon will be too bright but it should be an interesting shot if anyone attempts it.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010 (CANCELLED)
Post by: JohnP on Jan 14, 2010, 16:57:59
Agreed...

Probably get something similar to this...

(http://www.spaceweather.com/eclipses/01apr06/Printy2.jpg)

Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010 (CANCELLED)
Post by: Mike on Jan 14, 2010, 17:15:52
Indeed. Still would be a nice picture though.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010 (CANCELLED)
Post by: Mike on Jan 15, 2010, 08:08:08
Rick can you put on the main website that the DSC is cancelled please.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010 (CANCELLED)
Post by: Rocket Pooch on Jan 18, 2010, 09:01:55
im going to book off the friday and monday and take the caravan down there rain or shine. so ill be there.
Title: Re: Deep Sky Camp - 15th to 18th Jan 2010 (CANCELLED)
Post by: Mike on Jan 18, 2010, 09:58:44
For 20th Feb?