Meanwhile……… a small contingent of HAA members made the trek to Cherry Springs for their Second Annual Astronomy Festival. Like at ?Twisterfest? the inclement weather played its part at Cherry Springs as well.
Although attendance was not as anticipated the weather didn’t dampen the spirits or the comradery of the astronomers who attended.
It was great to meet and spend time with Dave and Guy, members from the Aurora Astronomical Society based in Ohio. Dave had his new handmade 13 inch Dob at the ready. Dave said it was a labour of love that took him all last winter. Its a beautifully crafted scope and gave some really nice views. Guy set up his two Dobs and kept everyone laughing with all his adventures.
By late Saturday afternoon the public starting arriving for some planned activites at the pavillion. The most popular by far was the bottle rocket launch. The shrieks and laughter could be heard throughout the park. Onlookers gathered to cheer them on.
As darkness fell the clouds started to roll in, but there was still plenty of opportunity for a sky tour through the sucker holes.
Optimism had led to setting up the scopes. Although sporadic, several opportunities presented itself to view the outstanding night skies Cherry Springs is known to provide. At the close of the park activites passerbyes stopped for a Galileo Moment or two.
Bino observing of the Milky Way gave stellar views.
It was great to see Maxine Harrison as she made the rounds as usual, to say hello, have a visit and give us an update on park news.
As all things must come to an end, Sunday afternoon arrived. With that, a reluctant departure, knowing in our hearts the absolute best clear sky of the weekend would be…….Sunday night………why is that?