A group of the Hamilton Amateur Astronomers got together for an evening of stargazing at the Binbrook Conservation Area, our “dark sky” site away from the lights of Hamilton. Observing at the park is available to all members of the club and offers a friendly atmosphere to observe the cosmos, chat with other club members and learn about astronomy.

I arrived at the park shortly after 9:30pm to see other members already setup and waiting for high-level clouds to pass. This evening we met at the boat launch area which provides a large level gravel parking lot with which to setup. We’re also right next to the reservoir which offers added photographic opportunities if taking a break from the telescope.

With Ontario going through hot daytime temperatures and low rainfall the evening hovered around a pleasant 26°C with no sign of mosquitoes or other pests. As I unpacked my gear heat-lightning put on a show over the southern horizon with fast sequences of flashes attracting excitement from the crowd of observers.

Despite weather forecasts, those high-level clouds were stubbornly remaining in place and as the evening moved on it was clear they weren’t going anywhere. Not to dampen spirits, telescopes were trained on objects and observations were made as clear spots moved overhead. Jupiter, Saturn and Mars were all available targets this evening and I trained my scope on Saturn to provide a first-ever view to a new guest who joined us this evening. Members are welcome to bring guests to Binbrook and share the sky with anyone interested in astronomy. Saturn is a great introduction and never disappoints, creating an almost guaranteed “wow” response from any first-time viewer.

The major telescope types were all represented with a few Dobsonian scopes, refractors and my own Schmidt-Cassegrain. For those just getting into astronomy or who want large aperture a Dobsonian type scope is an excellent instrument. They’re simple to setup, easy to learn and provide great views of the sky for low start-up costs. A manual push and pull Dobsonian telescope will also force its user to learn the night sky as there is no help from on-board electronics. However, armed with star charts, many available smartphone apps, or other helpful club members, finding objects to view is not difficult.

My own motorized Schmidt-Cassegrain on a CGEM mount and an EQ6 mount which was also present offer features to negate the effects of the Earth spin and track objects as they move overhead. This allows the scope to lock onto a target and keep it in the centre of view for extended periods of time. This configuration is more difficult than a non-motorized scope and required added setup time before observing can take place. However, tracking the cosmos then allows for astrophotography for amazing results!

Despite the clouds, observations were made, warm summer weather was enjoyed and good conversation took place amongst old friends and new ones. As a club member, if you’re just starting in amateur astronomy or would like to escape the city lights of your backyard, consider visiting us at the Binbrook Conservation Area. Keep an eye on your email for announcements of park openings.

Clear skies!

Schmidt–Cassegrain Telescope, CGEM 800HD

An EQ6 Mount, 12″ Dobsonian and a LightBridge Dobsonian.

Refractor Telescope

Meade Lightbridge Dobsonian Telescope