Update 8/31: As it stands we are a GO for tomorrow nights observation. The conditions aren’t ideal. We’ll definitely be playing peek a boo between clouds. The coordinator is going to revisit the forecast tomorrow at around 1 pm and has reserved the option to cancel last-minute. You’ll want to double-check this post or our Face Book page for that last-minute call.
Saturday September First, the Forsyth Astronomical Society will host an observation at Stone Mountain State Park in the family camping area. This is primarily an event for the campers of the park but the public is welcome to attend. This event used to be a lock in style event but changes to park regulations allow for visitors entrance and egress as they please. If weather cooperates and the clouds stay away, Jupiter, Saturn and Venus will be visible early in the evening and as darkness progresses we will be able show you various star clusters, binary star systems, several different nebulae and even a galaxy or two in the larger scopes. Mars will be visible over the mountain tops shortly after dusk. The massive planet wide dust storm that ruined getting detailed views during the opposition has started subsiding. Mars is still pretty close. Hopefully we can get some better views of it as well. The moon won’t rise until after midnight, so, it shouldn’t be to much of a nuisance.
This IS a weather dependent event. This post and the club’s Facebook page will be updated to reflect a final weather call on Friday August 31st. As of this posting the forecast is for clouds and thunder storms, then partly cloudy during the early evening, giving way to a possible clearing during our typical observation time. With all the rain we have had as of late, you will most definitely want insect repellent, mosquitoes will be in full force. Please refrain from spraying repellent near scopes or other optical devices. Repellents are typically sticky and the chemicals can damage the precision optical surfaces. Please refrain from using flashlights or cell phones in the observation area. Once your eyes dark adapt, I promise you, you will be able to see fine to navigate around. If you have need to find something, ask a member and they can provide a red light flashlight to help you. Please note the observation site on the campsite map below. Access to the site can be gained via a grassy path marked by traffic cones between sites 33 and 34. If you are a non camping attendee please park at the bathhouse near the observation site or along the grassy median away from campsites along the main road. Please be respectful and do not walk through other’s campsites.
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