| Open Nights |
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Our Open Nights for 2010 are:
Hadleigh Country Park, Chapel Lane, Hadleigh, Benfleet, Essex |
Our first Astronomy Open Night of 2010 on Saturday 20th February was a success.
It started out with just a bit of promise but sadly in line with the early birds' arrival it got poorer and poorer. The odd glimpse of the Moon and Mars ceased.
However the steady stream of eager folk continued. Lots of them came and went leaving a donation but saw nothing.
Chris, our 'Meet & Greet' colleague, was ever hopeful and told me at least three times that there was a clearer bit coming. All I knew was that it was getting very difficult to say something encouraging to the punters. But about sevenish there was a clear bit and it got bigger and bigger until it actually was all over and we had a splendid hour and a half.
Many people said how pleased they were.
We had about 200 people through the gate.
Two bright satellites were seen and suggested to be the ISS and shuttle. However, these weren't actually due any passes at this time so it was probably actually Iridium flares.
The main field was very busy with the longest queues at the two big scopes of Jim and Ron.
Everybody worked well together particularly the teaming of Terry and Ian who managed the car parking and were busy with the dismantling together when I left.
Come and see the wonders of the night sky at our next Open Night on 20th March 2010 - 7.00pm to 9.00pm (weather permitting!)
ADMISSION FREE!
If you came to previous Open Nights when we are lucky to have CLEAR SKIES, then you will know that these nights can be great fun and very enjoyable!
Donations: The Open Nights are free. However, if you would like to make a donation, any monies raised go towards the Country Park, and CPAC funds, to enhance future events.
| A Special Note about the Weather: |
| We all hope that we will be gifted with totaly clear skies, but unfortunately, we cannot control nor are we responsible for the weather! |
| None of our telescopes are able to see through clouds. It will certainly be advisable to take a look at the sky before attending the Open Night to avoid disappointment. |
| If there are any clear patches in the clouds, then we will be observing what we can |
The Open Night is organised by the Southend Planetarium, the Castle Point Astronomy Club and Hadleigh Castle Country Park.
For further information about the Open night or the Castle Point Astronomy Club, please contact us.