Observing conditions were excellent at this year’s Staunton River Star Party. Many RAC members stayed for the entire event and even more stayed for several days of cool, clear observing weather. As usual, the facilities were very good and the skies dark with the Milky Way seen horizon to horizon
Of course dew on your optics is always a challenge in the Southeast this time of year, but there were several days where the dew was exceptional even for this region. If you ever wonder what it was like to observe in the rain, this was a chance to find out.
None of that stopped over 20 members and in some cases, their families, from participating in this years event. There were people doing astrophotography and some doing visual observing, and some doing both. This year the food service was very good with food being available 22 hours a day (you were out of luck between 4AM – 6AM). The club sandwich seemed to be the most popular, but the pancakes were excellent as well.
There were enough clear nights to satisfy all but the most demanding photon junkie. The transparency kept changing from good to average, but this was not an impediment to seeing a bunch of great fall objects.
The next event is in the spring. Let’s all hope for good weather again!
