The SDAA is just one mile north of the border and we were entertained by Border Patrol helicopters trying to track down illegal aliens trying to come across the border. Their site is well thought out. It is about 5 acres of land and is basically divided into three sections; (1) the public observing area; (2) the private observing pads; and (3) seven observatories in a row.
RAS members got several good ideas for our potential site. First, we really liked the way they set up their public observing site. Basically, it has two long concrete pads, with power for people to set up on. Also, right there was a 'two holer' bathroom complete with shower facility in the back.
Also, looking at some of the private pads, we like how they had blocks set on top of sand; a cheep and easy way to construct the pads.
At the east end of the property are seven observatories in a row. One is owned by the club, and the others are leased by members. Typically, two or three people share an observatory. We were told many of the pit falls they experienced over the years in constructing these observatories.
The night was cool, but not cold. it was also dark, particularly to the south. We looked through Smokey's, Bill Lennartz's, Glenn's and Alson's dobsonians until about midnight. One hit of the evening with Bruce Lakin's new 80mm Vixen Binoculars from Orion. We put my 26mm Plossels in them and enjoyed great views of many galaxies and open clusters. The Beehive was particularly impressive. Well done Bruce.
Smokey debuted the new club mascot, Pluto. At eight months old, he is very energetic and almost as well behaved as his master.
 A private observatory |
 A private observing pad |
 Public observing pad |
 SDAA's 22" Ritchey-Chrétien |
 Smoke and Pluto check out a private observatory |
 Alex demonstrates the fine art of collimating |
