Starfest Star Party– A MUST DO Astronomy Event
Starfest is rated one of the worlds top 10 Star Parties and it happens next week in Mount Forest, ON. Many of your fellow club members will be there and we love company.
What is a Star Party? Camping with your telescope! You and about 800 other astronomy enthusiasts spread out on a large field with your telescope and tent (or trailer).
Don't have a telescope yet? No problem, everyone is eager to show you their idea of astronomy utopia! You will see every shape and size and get to try them out. Some even require you to climb a 15' ladder just to get at the eyepiece! From tiny telescopes to monster size, you'll see them all.
You have more fun if you spend a few days, but you can also go for the day and leave after dark. If planning to leave after dark, you will need to park your car near the park entrance (stargazing and headlights don't mix). Just make sure you arrive well before dark, drive in to find folks you want to meet-up with, and then once you know where you're going, drive your car back to the main entrance.
A few tips for first timers:
1) Bring a Red Flashlight.
2) Bring a winter parka (yes, really). Even 20+ degrees can leave you shivering once your core temperature drops.
3) Insect repellant
4) Stay away from the guys using cameras. They're grumpy and swear a lot!
If you would like to meet-up, a bunch of us will be in the trailer area. Send me an email and I can give you coordinates.
Officially, Starfest does not start until next Thursday (Aug 4) but many folks will be there this weekend. A gaggle of us will be there on Wednesday.
For more info: http://www.nyaa.ca/index.php?page=/sf16/sf.home16 (http://www.nyaa.ca/index.php?page=/sf16/sf.home16)
Gary Bennett
gary@bendun.net
What a great Starfest, wow had so much fun!!
Martin, I agree with you. It was so wonderful to be among "like" minds and witness so many passionate people. And you represented the Hamilton Centre so well by winning imaging prizes...kudos to you!
Ed