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Any Astronomers on the island??

Posted: Tue Jun 21, 2016 10:27 pm
by bryan h
Hello We will be on the island from 7-24 to 7-27 . Is there a good place to set up my astronomy binoculars. to observe the sky??? Wish I could bring my 12 inch scope but not enough room in the car to pack it. It would be great if I could share a scope if anyone has one on the island

Thanks
Bryan

dark skies

Posted: Wed Jun 22, 2016 3:26 pm
by wmarkey
Yes Beaver island has exceptional dark skies, but finding an open area with a full 360 degree view is difficult. The best, I think, is Gull Harbor. It is on the water facing NE around to the SW. The NW horizon is blocked by the treeline and that helps minimize the light from St. James village. Other places include Donegal bay's parking area, Welke airport near PJ's hangar and any open field or big yard you might come across.

Stars!

Posted: Wed Jun 22, 2016 5:09 pm
by megsing3
Hi Bryan, we can share!
Plan for the Meade 4000 ETX, 12 in.
Send a private message or reply post to find me as the date gets closer. Enjoy till then :)

Posted: Thu Jun 23, 2016 8:34 am
by robertg
For a North view, I like the Back Beach, perhaps up the trail off Pine Street 100m East of Gallagher.

Posted: Thu Jun 23, 2016 9:35 pm
by bryan h
Thanks for the info , as i get closer to the date i will be comeing I will let you know

location

Posted: Fri Jul 22, 2016 2:45 pm
by wmarkey
Hi Bryan
As I mentioned above Gull Harbor is one of the better locations, but due to the high Lake Michigan water level it is flooded (carwash) and impractical. A search for another site has been ongoing with some success, but can you tell me which side of the Island you are staying. If you're close to town there is a very good all around view location with a 100 yd or so trail to it. Parking is iffy with room for just a few cars, but it is far enough away to protect night vision. Let me know, I would really like to look thru that 12"

Posted: Fri Jul 22, 2016 4:35 pm
by BradG
I've used the township airport. It's a nice big open area.

Posted: Fri Jul 22, 2016 5:02 pm
by Frank Solle
Bryan, as it stands now Monday evening looks to be your best bet - clear and calm. While the moon rises late, there's still quite a bit of it visible so that could be an issue. I do some astrophotography and have a few locations that might work for you. You're welcome to call once you've arrived. 2162.

Posted: Sun Jul 24, 2016 8:18 pm
by bryan h
Just got on the island Frank no observing tonight to many clouds. Staying at Harbor Veiw. Will try contacting you tomorrow
Thanks

location

Posted: Mon Jul 25, 2016 1:54 pm
by wmarkey
Would it be possible to meet up at the Socrates Café at the library. 7:00pm?
discuss a location and include anyone

Posted: Mon Jul 25, 2016 5:29 pm
by bryan h
Ok where is this cafe at ????? Never heard of this placd

Posted: Mon Jul 25, 2016 5:48 pm
by wmarkey
Beaver Island Library holds a discussion thing called Socrates Café
Donagal road. In town 7:00 pm

Posted: Mon Jul 25, 2016 6:43 pm
by bryan h
Wmarkey do you ha d a telescope? All i could bring on the boat was my 20X80 binoculars

Posted: Mon Jul 25, 2016 7:36 pm
by megsing3
Check pm's :) if you still aren't finding

Posted: Mon Jul 25, 2016 9:11 pm
by wmarkey
Yes, a 4and1/2" Bushnell eguitorial, but I was hoping to set up next to the 12" and check that out. As I mentioned earlier I was at the Library to meet up with you to discuss location but I must have missed you.
If you are here another night perhaps we can get together tomorrow and figure a good spot. Meanwhile tonight, enjoy