California's Golden State Star Party 2009

2009-06-20T21:04:00.000-07:00

Come Enjoy An All-Star Sky!

"Howdy Star Buckaroos!
Treat yourself to an easy and fun
ultimate astronomy round-up.

Old timers or First-Timers, beginners or kids... mount up, head out, and rope in some fun!"

- Death Valley Randy
celestial prospector

Location: Frosty Acres Ranch near Adin in northeast California at an elevation of 4400 feet. You'll feel home on the range, out in wide open spaces, views of Mount Shasta rising in the west; on-site amenities, nearby towns - all at true dark sky distance from city lights. Check our photos for the flavor! Set your GPS for the entrance gate at N41° 7' 34", W 120° 58' 26

Site: The surface is heritage grass, safe for driving, and provides a comfortable camping surface. The area is enormous. In 2008, amid California's early "fluke" worst fire season, GSSP had over 300 attendees and did not fill 1/8th the available space. DUST - The driving road has been moved east of the camping field, so traffic dust blows away from us.

Testimonials:

"I haven't seen skies like that since my childhood. Even familiar objects seemed almost brand new..."

Bert Seltzer

"A dazzling "bowl of the sky" feeling from zenith to horizon in every direction".

Richard Navarrete

"This is the darkest sky left in the US ... It doesn't get any better than this!"

Tony Hallas
Astrophoto.com

GSSP Clear Sky Chart

For something truly special, treat yourself to Saturday and Sunday evening BBQ dinners served on site. Frosty Acres Ranch raises gourmet range-grass fed beef. Ring the dinner bell cookie!

Also, enjoy our free pancake breakfast Tuesday morning.

Contact GSSP

GSSP 2009 Organizing Committee

Paul Alsing, Rich Girard, Jeffrey Gortatowsky, Richard Ozer, Bill Porte, Marsha Robinson, Pete Santangeli, Jane Smith, Mark Wagner, Charlie Wicks, Susan Wicks.

Thank you to our host...

and the support of

FIRELINE SUPPORT SYSTEMS
PORTABLE SHOWER FACILITY

High Desert Online
Internet Services

Registration

2009-06-19T16:30:00.000-07:00

After June 12, 2009 - $75 at the gate.
1 day pass at the gate is $35.

Registration fees are per adult.
Under 18 years of age, registration is free.

GSSP 2009 open 10 a.m. June 20th to noon June 24th.
Above information subject to change without notice.

By registering you agree to the rules for GSSP.

GSSP 2009 is an LCO, Inc. production.

Make This Your First Time!

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If you've never been out to a sky beyond your backyard or local astronomy sites, you're in for an amazing treat.

Have you seen a dark sky, or only remember them from childhood? For you, that first view at GSSP will be truly incredible. The views are what keep us going back each year. Although you may become familiar with it, it is always an amazing sight.

Do you need a telescope to attend? No! But if you have one, bring it (nothing is too small). If not, binoculars, or just your eyes will do. There will be plenty of telescopes to look through.

Do you think you're too much of a beginner? Its a friendly and helpful group - you'll fit right in and make new friends under under an amazing sky. Whether you're an observer or imager, you'll have lots of company, get plenty of help, and see lots of new equipment and sights.

Need advice on camping at this type of event? This group has been doing it for 15 years, we can answer your questions and concerns by e-mail or on our one of our social networks. We assure you, it is much easier than you might imagine.

Three things make a great Star Party
The Sky, The Site and The People.

The Sky - words cannot do it justice, come and see for yourself. The Site - this is about as good as it can get; great horizons, huge, flat, with minimal dust, no rocks, and is a natural surface - all great for camping and setting up equipment. The People - we're friends who have been getting together at these events for years. You are most welcome to attend and meet new friends.

If you've ever considered a dark sky trip
you owe it to yourself, and you're invited.

Would you like to ask past attendees questions?
Join the GSSP Yahoo E-Group or GSSP Facebook
See the Social Networks menu to the right.

General Rules and Guidelines

2009-06-17T15:37:00.000-07:00

Welcome to GSSP 2009. In order to make everyone’s time here safe and comfortable, we ask you to review and respect the rules for this event.

Fire

If you read only one section of this document, read this one!!! Fire safety is our #1 concern and everyone must adhere to the following:

Only propane camp stoves and propane BBQ’s are allowed. All of these stoves must be set upon a sturdy table or tailgate. No open fires!
Smokers must be aware of safety while disposing their cigarettes. Small containers are being handed out at the gate. These can be filled with an inch of water and used to extinguish cigarette butts. A soda can will work equally as well.
Park only in designated areas and not in any area with tall grass which could potentially spark fires.
Anyone disregarding our fire safety rules will have their registration refunded and will be asked to leave.

General Astro Guidelines

¨ Quiet hours at the campsites are from 10 p.m. until 10 a.m. Please respect your neighbors’ sleeping habits. Many people stay up all night observing and could use some quiet in the morning.

¨ Flashlights should only be used with red filters.

¨ Laptop screens must be shielded with red plastic.

¨ No white light after sundown, except for emergencies;

¨ The use of green laser pointers is prohibited.

Driving

¨ Speed limit on site is 5 mph!

¨ All types of vehicles are welcome at the observing site.

¨ Vehicles may drive in and out of the observing area during daylight hours only.

¨ NO VEHICLE TRAFFIC AT NIGHT (except for emergencies).

Generators

¨ “Quiet” generators, under 60db, are allowed for imaging rigs at night. Please locate them at the periphery of the imaging area at the north end of the star party site, and preferably away from other campers. Bring a 50-100 foot extension cord in order to locate the generator as far away as possible from other observers. Make sure you clear the ground of any grass or burnable material before starting the generator. See the site map and note the area for imagers with generators.

¨ RV owners may run their generators and AC during the day, but not at night. We really wish to maintain a quiet atmosphere for our attendees. Noise control has always been a challenge, so we ask for your cooperation. Individuals may use their portable generators during the day for charging batteries. GSSP will also provide a battery charging station.

Public Night

There will be a modest public night on Saturday night. Please extend your usual courtesy to our visitors and please refrain from using green laser pointers.

Trash

¨ All attendees are responsible for policing their own trash. We ask that everyone be responsible by cleaning up after meals and after tearing down the campsite. Volunteers will have plenty of trash bags on hand.

¨ Hopefully, we will have recycle bins for your glass and tins.

FAQ

2009-06-16T13:16:00.000-07:00

I've registered for GSSP. May I decide to bring another adult later?
Yes you may. We have no space limitations. Feel free to bring others along. Onsite registration fees for additional adults will apply when you arrive.

Will it be safe to leave telescopes set up at all times?
Absolutely. The observing site is on private property and is completely safe. Except during a modest public night on Sunday, only registered attendees and our vendors will be allowed on the telescope field.

What time can we arrive and set up our equipment?
The gate will open at 9:00 on Saturday morning. No one will be allowed onto the property until then.

How far is the telescope setup area from the campground?
You may camp or park next to your equipment. There is plenty of space.

Can RV's park in the observing areas?
Yes. RV’s are welcome, and will be parked along the perimeter of the observing area in an RV section.

Can I have lights on in my RV at night?
Yes, dim ones, with proper shielding to prevent light from being visible outside the RV. One method of shielding light is with Reflectix carefully taped over the windows using Gaffers Tape. Both are available at Orchard Supply Hardware. Care should also be taken to turn off interior lights before going in or out of the RV after dark.

Can I use my laptop computer at night?
Yes, with proper shielding. Many people place the laptop in a cardboard box, with the opening to the side toward their telescope. This helps prevent others "off-axis" from your computer seeing it. Even more important is to shield the laptop screen with a layer or two of dark red or gray plastic, held on with Gaffers Tape. Plastic is inexpensive and easy to have cut to size at companies such as Tap Plastics. The key is to prevent any light "leaking" out the sides - which is done with the Gaffers Tape, and to have the red plastic dark enough.

Can I bring my pet?
Pets are allowed at GSSP as long as they do not cause any threat to others or interfere with quiet hours. Pets must be on a leash and under owner control when outside at all times. Pets cannot be left unattended outside, even when on a leash. Pet owners are responsible for the behavior and actions of their pets at all times. Pet owners must pick up after their pet in all locations at GSSP.

Can I bring a BBQ?
Please bring only camping type stoves or grills. There are no open fires allowed, including BBQs.

Can I bring a generator?
We will have a battery charging station running each day. You may also bring a personal “whisper” generator. We ask that night-time generator users set up at the periphery (this will be designated) and have the generator located 50 – 100 feet away from the campsites. You will need a long extension cord.

I’m staying at a local motel. Can I drive in and out at night?
There is no driving in and out of the event at night. This is a dark sky event and we wish to avoid unnecessary exposure to nearby headlights. Also, it’s not safe to drive on this property at night and for that reason alone, all observers must be onsite by twilight and may not leave till dawn.

Can I use a Green Laser pointer?
No green lasers will be allowed at GSSP. There are no exceptions.

Driving Directions

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From the San Francisco Bay Area, GSSP is a shorter drive than attending RTMC.

From central Calfornia, drive up highway 5 to Redding. Turn east on highway 299 and drive approximately 100 miles. When you reach the town of Bieber, watch for the Red Barn (gas station and store) as you are leaving town, and turn right there onto the A2 (Susanville Road). Continue approximately 9 miles before turning left onto Bassett Road (road 424). GSSP will be on the left shortly. If you reach highway 139, you've driven too far and missed Bassett Road.

Coming from another direction? Click on the "B" in this map to get driving instructions:

View Larger Map

Please note - found on a local web-site for the star party area:

"One warning for your trip. The roads are all very good and you may be able to get away with speeding on Interstate 5, but you won't here. We have very little traffic, and that makes you an easy target for the Highway Patrol. Drive carefully and enjoy the scenery."

Attending Vendors and Supporters

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Vendors will be located centrally near GSSP's big community shade tent. Admission for vendors is the same as general attendees. Vendors bringing goods for sale must provide proof of liability insurance, and sign a liability waiver, which may be done upon arrival at GSSP.

Click logos to visit web-sites.

Attending vendors & Door Prize Donors

FaintFuzzies.com

Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory

Door Prize Donors

Rick's Astronomy Jewelry

innovative astronomical software

Supporters

GotGrit.com
ATM Supplies at reasonable prices

Space Art & Astronaut Autographs

San Jose Astronomical Association

Observing Lists

2009-06-13T15:33:00.000-07:00

GSSP is pleased to announce
Paul Alsing
Observing Chairperson

Paul is very knowledgeable and a wonderful mentor to all levels of observers. If you have questions or suggestions, programs to offer, just about anything pertaining to observing for GSSP, please contact him at PNALSING.at.GMAIL.dot.COM and make sure to meet him at the event.

Here are some observing lists and projects:

Campsite Preparation

2009-06-12T17:48:00.000-07:00

Groundcover recommendations
The observing field and camping area consists of hard clay ground covered with dry rooted cut grass. Although the type of grass in the field is not the type that sticks to clothing and works its way into your socks, there is, nonetheless, a tendency for the cut pieces to blow around and get into your belongings.

We recommend bringing three tarps, or two tarps plus a sizable piece of astro-turf. Use the tarps under your tent and as a "front porch" and the astro-turf as groundcover for your equipment. You'll find that this arrangement is comfortable and will keep the grass out of your stuff.

Please note, what the land-owners consider "cut" grass is different than what city-folk (with trimmed lawns) think. GSSP will ask to have the grasses cut, but you may wish to do some manicuring of your campsite. What is not allowed is uprooting the grasses, since the area is a private preserve and the grass is a perennial grass. But you may bring a scissor or shears and trim it down in and around your campsite. A little off the top, please!

Wind and Stakes
In the afternoon, particularly on hot days, the northern Nevada desert cools off, and causes a westerly wind to pass over the cascades and down through Big Valley and Adin. When this happens, the wind picks up at about 3:00 pm and dies down at around 6:00 pm. By sunset, the air is still.

During the windy periods, tents, tarps and easy-ups can easily turn into kites. For this reason we will require that all of the above be secured with 1/4 inch diameter, or better, "nail-stakes". Standard tent stakes (the flimsy kind that probably came with your tent) will not suffice. We also recommend that you open a top corner of your easy-ups in the afternoon to prevent them from becoming airborne. At past star parties, we've have some incidents involving flying easy-ups; and we'd like to avoid any recurrence.

We also strongly suggest that you plan for securing your equipment. If you have a big dob, a piece of rope staked to the ground can be used to tie down the cage, pointing downwind. Dob's make great weather vanes; so protect your investment with a piece of rope and a nail stake.

Would more recommendations help?
We've been making trips like this, camping together at star parties for a long time. If you need any help, suggestions, pointers, etc., please write GSSP or ask questions in the GSSP Yahoo E-Group, linked to the right of this posting.

EZ-Up Canopies

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Here are two 10'x10' EZ-Up canopies secured to each other with Bungee Cords. These are strong and provide plenty of shade. Many attendees will have these.

2009-06-10T12:54:00.000-07:00

The question was once asked...

"Where Are The Young Astronomers?"

Look at these photos, and you'll know where...

Bring your children to GSSP. They'll never forget it.

Don't leave them home.

- Even if you do not own a telescope -
(See the First Timers / Beginners link to the right)

Here are some happy young faces from 2008....

( Remember.... under 18, their admission is free... )

Where are the young astronomers?

At GSSP, with you...

Some may actually take up the hobby!

Mimi... "The Messier Monster"
GSSP 2009 attendee.

S&T Cover Photo by Marsha Robinson - GSSP committee member

Shading Tents

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Front and back of Greg LaFlamme's sun protected tent. Material was purchased from TeleGizmos.

Peter McKone (L) and Bob Jardine (R) under collapsed EZ-Up. Great way to shade your tent. put a sheet or some aluminet on the south and east sides, and you'll sleep comfortably in the morning. Photo by Dan Wright

Have a photo of your solution? Send it to us for posting here. Include a description.

Shower Truck Photos

2009-06-08T09:41:00.000-07:00

Use of the shower truck is included
in the price of your registration!

It is modern and clean, with 9 private stalls.

Each stall has a private changing area.

The shower truck is one of the star
party's most appreciated amenities.
Being clean and refreshed is indeed
key to being truly a happy camper!

Thank you to

FIRELINE SUPPORT SYSTEMS
OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
PORTABLE SHOWER FACILITY

for their wonderful support of the GSSP!

Comparing dark skies...

2009-06-07T12:14:00.000-07:00

These light pollution maps show several star parties. Oregon Star Party's location is approximately 20 miles into the "black" (darkest) and may be the most pristine skies. GSSP and Texas Star Party are both on the gray/black border and probably share similarly dark skies.

Click maps for interpretation.

Golden State Star Party

Mount Bachelor Star Party

Oregon Star Party

Table Mountain Star Party

Texas Star Party

These light pollution maps are 173mi east to west, by 230mi north-to-south.

Activities

2009-06-06T21:07:00.000-07:00

Out and About Adin

Biking	Boating	Camping	Drives
Fishing	Golfing	Hiking	Libraries
Lodging	Museums	Parks	Rafting
Shopping	Swimming	Wildlife	Wineries

Up-to-date News: http://www.bigvalleynews.net/

About Modoc County
About Lassen County
About Eastern Lassen County

Adin (population 500) lies 100 miles east of Redding, 100 miles south of Klamath Falls, OR, and 40 miles southeast of Alturas on SR 299. It sits on the Modoc Plateau, elevation 4200’.

Bieber and Lookout, approximately 12 miles away each, form a triangle with Adin called Big Valley. The Big Valley Ranger District office is located in Adin.

Adin has one:

Restaurant
Grocery store
Supply store
Library—with Internet access
Service station
Community park
Visitor information services (Big Valley Ranger District)
Motel
Mobile home park (with overnight hookups)
Fire Department
Church (six in the area)

Bieber has:

Schools
Bank
Medical center
Hardware store
Grocery store
Nursery
Flower/gift shop
Museum
Swimming pool

History and Historical Landmarks
Adin was named after one of its early settlers, Adin McDowell, in 1869, and contains an assortment of historic buildings and sites.

Adin Community Church was built in 1888 and is located on Main Street
Adin Supply was built in 1899 as a general store and it is still operated as such today.
Two historic cemeteries: (1) an Indian site near the old primary school in Adin, and (2) and the old pioneer cemetery located on CR 89.

Food / Supplies

2009-06-05T21:02:00.000-07:00

Food
Many attendees bring their own food, but for those cooking on-site please use only gas powered camping stoves. Open fires will NOT be allowed.

There are a few places to eat and buy supplies in Adin, Bieber and other nearby towns.

Water
Potable water will be available free, on site from the shower vendor.

Ice
We've arranged for plenty of ice to be available for purchase at the
Adin Supply Company a few miles away in town.

The Elements

2009-06-04T20:33:00.000-07:00

These are most important points!!!

Bring your own shade. There is no shade on site other than the community tent. Your campsite will need a large umbrella or sturdy EZ-Up canopy. Tent campers need to shade tents from the morning sun.
Typical afternoon breezes occur at most large star parties due to the openness of their terrain. Stake your tent and canopy, and your telescope if it is lightweight or "windmills". These same breezes make for great kite flying - your kids (and you) will love it - but bring a strong kite!

Sun protection - make certain during the day you are prepared. Sun block and a hat are highly recommended.
Temperatures can be chilly at night, even in the middle of summer. Prepare by having multiple layers you can put on. The best advice is to keep adding layers before you get chilled.
Bugs? We did not have a problem in 2008, but it is best to be prepared with some repellent.

Here is the National Weather Service page for Adin,
and historical data for temperature and precipitation.

Other Amenities

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Community Shade Tent / Imagers Kitchen
GSSP doubles the size of its community tent in 2009. It is available for daytime shade, with a portion darkened and power provided for imagers to process their prior night's catches. The community tent will certainly be a fun place to meet old and new friends.

Porta-Potties
Plenty of them, along with wash basins. Disabled access will also be available. Porta-Potties will be frequently serviced.

Trash containers
Will be interspersed throughout the site.

Cell Phones Service
Some cell phones work at the observing site, but service is spotty. Cell towers are nearby.

Aluminet

2009-06-02T16:48:00.000-07:00

From Paul Alsing:

When you attend any star party you see many different ideas for
keeping cool and creating shade, especially morning shade. The big
challenge is usually to make your tent stay cool enough to allow you to sleep until noon, since you didn't go to bed until 4 or 5 AM.

I myself have tried several methods of staying cool in the mornings, with varying degrees of success.

Over the years I had noticed an unusual material that was being used by a couple of fellow campers, a metallic, knitted-looking material, which was usually draped over a standard-looking tent, or over an additional
superstructure over a standard tent. This material turned out to be called Aluminet. Its original application is as a greenhouse shade cloth, used to protect young plants from the heat in summer and to retain heat in the winter. Read all about it here;

http://tinyurl.com/225njn

This web page contains many other useful links.

To read an informative blog about using Aluminet, see;

http://tinyurl.com/yvut97

I bought mine right from Polysack, I got a piece about 20 X 20 for 23
cents a sq ft, without any hems (stays stretchy). I did not get any permanent grommets installed, instead I got some of the snap-on grommets that are made for Aluminet. They can be taken off and moved around, allowing you to experiment with your creation. Call them directly, they are very nice on the phone and easy to deal with.

Polysack USA, Inc.
7590 Britannia Ct. Suite C
San Diego, CA 92154
Tel: +1 619-661-9601
Fax: +1 619 6619603
Email: usa@polysack.com

I'm sure that there are other good methods of keeping cool, perhaps you could share your favorite method with the rest of us.

from Dan Wright

A good source of information on Aluminet is:
http://www.ae-zone.org/dokuwiki/doku.php?id=aluminetfaq

The stuff is elastic, so it stretches and conforms to frame-shapes. When installed with some tension at its corners, for example when using bungee cords, it holds its shape nicely without flapping in the wind. It is also less vulnerable to the wind than a solid sheet of fabric, because the wind leaks through its weave, and it flexes and springs back into shape.

The best way to install it is to use "tarp clips" or "snap-on grommets" (see a link to one variety of these on the above page), and to use bungee cords to provide tension when fastening it to a frame or to anchor points. The bungee cords can be of the "tarp" or "tent" variety, basically a short loop with a plastic ball at one end.

It is possible to order Aluminet with a taped edge or a hem, and grommets installed all around, but this costs more money, takes more delivery time, and creates a non-stretchy edge that reduces the material's elastic usefulness. Also, a hem is not necessary because (unlike many fabrics), Aluminet is not in danger of unraveling, not even along edges cut by hand with scissors -- not even when cut diagonal to the weave. When my Aluminet was new, I could not tear or rip the fabric, not even using all my strength, but now that it's six years old, it has apparently weakened, because I can rip it now (if I try hard).

To provide walls for a 10x10 pop-up canopy, I use two panels of it, each 8' tall and 22' long. To save money I originally ordered a single long strip of 8' width, then cut the panels myself with scissors. I wrap these panels around the pop-up's perimeter and secure them to each other using tarp clips and bungees. They are not actually attached to the pop-up, instead they stretch like a pair of pants around a person's waist, and stay up by friction. This allows them to be pulled down to any level. I like the ability to quickly pull the "pants" walls down a bit to let out bees or insects that have blundered into the canopy.

To cover the top, I use a panel 12' x 12'. I toss this over the canopy and secure it to the four corners using some elastic tension. But this may not be necessary with modern canopies, because many now have canopy tops with a silvery IR and UV reflective layer (my old canopy's top is just white).

To cover a tent from the morning sun, you already have a good idea: anchor two corners on the east side using stakes in the ground, tarp clips, and bungee cords, then attach the other edge to the peak of the tent. You may need guy ropes on the opposite side of the tent to counteract the tension. For more complete shade, you can use a double thickness of the material.

The web page above shows many uses and shapes people have invented for Aluminet at Burning Man. The page also includes links to suppliers. It may be too late to order Aluminet to arrive prior to GSSP 2008. You might call around and find some in stock at a northern California greenhouse supply store or garden center.

Lacking Aluminet, you can find garden shade cloth in local stores, and purchase it by the yard and cut panels to fit your canopy or tent. Although this material doesn't have the IR-reflective metalic properties of Aluminet, it still provides good shade, and most varieties of it are elastic and can be installed in a similar way to Aluminet.

Camping / RVs and Motels

2009-06-01T16:34:00.000-07:00

Camping, RVs and Off Site Accommodations

GSSP Panorama from the center of the event.

RVs are welcome, but there are no hookups. There is plenty of room, good highway all the way there, and easy drive-in access. It is recommended you read the Campsite Preparation section below, as some of it will still apply to RV attendees.

Off-site accommodations are available in the nearby towns.

If you are camping, read the section on Campsite Preparation.

You will need to keep the sun off your tent in order to be comfortable. Make sure to read our page on Shading Tents.

Aluminet is a great lightweight and easy to transport product for providing shade.

An EZ-Up Canopy by itself or in combination with Aluminet provides good shade when you are outside your tent. Make certain to not by flimsy canopies. Cheap canopies do not stand up to wind, and our observing site is know for its gusty afternoon breezes.

GSSP 2008 Images

2009-05-31T12:41:00.000-07:00

Click the links for more GSSP images from each contributor.

GSSP 2008 Group Photo

Ivor Barker
astro-imaging

Craig Bobchin
mixed

Jing Chao
mixed

Jeff Crilly Cygnus Milky Way
astro-imaging

Mike Delaney
candid

Rob Enns
candid

Jeff Gortatowski
candid

Jeff Heikkinen slideshow
mixed

Wade Hilmo
astro-imaging

Al Howard
astro-imaging

Alvin Huey
candid

Mark Johnston's GSSP panorama
candid

Peter McKone
candid

Randy Muller
candid

Rich Patak (Big Valley News)
candid

John Pierce
candid

Marsha Robinson
candid

Pete Santangeli
astro-imaging

Pete Santangeli
candid

Stellarvue
candid

Kristina Sterling
candid

Charlie Wicks
candid

Dan Wright
candid

GSSP Yahoo Group photo folders
Pete Santangeli's 2008 Imaging Presentation
TAC Flickr photos

2008 T-Shirt and Mug

2009-05-30T10:41:00.000-07:00

We have had many requests for t-shirts and mugs.
All proceeds go to support the star party.
Order here from CafePress.

Click images for full size view

Original GSSP's 2008 T-shirt

Bob Jardine wearing the GSSP 2008 t-shirt. Photo by Randy Muller

GSSP 2008 Mug

Photo by Dan Wright

Here is the actual artwork
Suggested by Mark Wagner, design by Charlie Wicks

Testimonials

2009-05-29T17:04:00.000-07:00

Thank you, Thank you, Thanks you all.....
Bert Seltzer

I just wanted to express my sincerest gratitude to everyone involved
in the organization and execution of GSSP 2008. This was the very
first time I've ever attended an astronomical event of such magnitude,
and I have to say all the planning and hard work that went into making
it happen made it an experience I will cherish for a life time.

I haven't seen skies like that since my childhood. Even familiar
objects seemed almost brand new, and I was able to observe in detail
DSO's that were, under lesser skies, either barely discernable or flat
out impossible.

And every bit as amazing was the camaraderie of all the attendees. It
truly seems that amongst amateur astronomers, there really are no
"total" strangers.

I can only imagine the effort that had to have gone into GSSP 2008,
and I just wanted to say a great big "THANK YOU" to both the
organizers and our gracious hosts, the Albaughs.

Sincerely,
Bert

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thank you GSSP
Bill Faatz

Just got back from GSSP and would like to extend a big "job well done"
to The Committee and volunteers for doing an outstanding job of
organizing this starparty.

In spite of no shower trucks, they were able to secure showers at the
Beiber HS...THANK YOU.

The BBQ on Friday night was a real treat after camp food for two days.

Throughly enjoyed myself and definitely will be back next year.

Mr. Bill ;>}

ps measured typically SQM 21.85 skies, so the potential is there if we
get conditions with no smoke next year....got my fingers crossed.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Returned richer and better for it
Paul Romero

Hi all,

Thanks for the great environment at the GSSP 2008! I went, conguered
the night sky, and returned safely. I think it was a wonderful star
party, with only some smoke to deal with. I hope that the organizing
committee keeps camping by the trees available as an limited option as
well as allowing people with pets! I hope that the website reports the
temperatures (min/max) and site conditions for future star parties, as
this will help attendees plan. I uploaded a half-assed movie I made of
the event...see files section.

thanks!

Paul

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

GSSP 2008 - Thank You!
Christopher Kerry

This was my first GSSP. In fact, it was my first over-night star
party. My thanks to everyone who helped make it happen. I eagerly
await GSSP 2009. (And not just because I want more Frosty Acres Ranch
beef nor tasty Adin Supply Co. biscuits & gravy!)

The views were beyond anything I've seen, despite the sometimes
troublesome weather & smoke. Each night there were some mighty fine
viewing opportunities, especially Saturday night, when I got to see Io
(and its shadow) transit Jupiter.

The organization was exceptional and, except for the showers being
commandeered for the fire fighting crews, made the whole trip pleasant
and without incident. Our hosts, the Albaughs of Frosty Acres Ranch,
were a fun bunch and some of the most genuinely friendly people I've
ever met.

I didn't mind the heat during the days, nor the winds since they died
down just around dusk. The cool to chilly nights were refreshing and
made staying up until the wee hours enjoyable after the hot days.

Next year I'm taking a dip in Ash Creek during the days though :)

Clear Skies,

Christopher

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Thank you for GSSP!
Curt Wittenburg

I want to log my thanks to all the organizers and other volunteers. I
think the site is fantastic, the organization was great, and I am
confident it will only get better as this was the first. I was one of
the unfortunate ones who only came for the first two nights. Looks
like I missed some great skies and also a great barbeque. However, I
did have an excellent time seeing old friends and making new ones as
well as getting in a few hours at the eyepiece (mine and others).
Loved the area. Special thanks to Paul Alsing for carting my scope
and observing gear up from San Diego. I really look forward to future
parties at this site.

Thanks to all of you,

Curt

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Just one more night !!
Dennis Recla

First - Thanks to all who organized the GSSP, it was great even with
the minor problems from the California fires. Thursday wasn't too bad,
and a chance to get a good nights sleep.

But!! Sunday morning looked fantastic, if we could have stayed one
more night, no telling what Sunday would have been like.

Already anticipating next years activities in Adin.

Hope to see some of you again at the Mt. Bachelor Star Party - August 6-
10 on the slopes of Mt. Bachelor West of Bend, OR.

Dennis & Diann Recla

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Great Event
Jeremy Schmit

I would also like to thank the organizers for putting together an
outstanding event. The location was wonderful, and we were a few lousy
fires away from having three perfect nights--plus a night to catch up on
sleep :).

I came up with the goal of getting to know the NorCal astronomy
community, and this task proved even more fun that the observing. I had
wonderful conversations with everyone I met over the five days, and I
look forward to cementing those friendships at CalStar and beyond. I
would also like to thank everyone for their patience with my 3-year-old
son Nathan, and doing their best to hide their terror as he inspected
all the "biiig telescopes".

Finally, a big thank you to the Albaughs and the people of Adin for
their hospitality.

Jeremy

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Great Event
Susan Wicks

Seeing a little bit of the Albaugh family history and their ideas for
the future was an experience I'll never forget. The ranch was one of
the cleanest, most well-kept ones that I have ever seen in my lifetime
and it shows how much pride they take in the care of this vital part
of their family's heritage. As you walk into the older barn, you can
see the horse stables and massive post & beam structure that houses
the hay for the animals. Everything was done with hand-hewn broad-axe
work & pegs. By the front entrance, you can see the hand-carved
inscription made by some of the wood-workers that had come through the
area, building barns for the ranches in the region. Two signature
dates carved by those builders during 1912 & 1914 could be easily
seen. The craftsmanship looked very similar to that found in early New
England schooners & public buildings that are still around.

I especially enjoyed seeing the "scare-eagle" that was being used to
keep the snow geese off the wild rice in the lower pond and the wild/
real bald eagle on the next pond. They also have managed to keep one
snow goose mom very happy by leaving her & "her" bales of hay in the
shelter alone so that she and her goslings can have some peace.

Later at the other barn... Getting up in the cab and tooting the horn
of the large tractor was a such a hit with so many of the kids. The
two girls, handling the sheep were experts at getting them clean after
their mid-day leap into the creek. Meaghan was so kind to teach this
city-gal how to rope that "steer". So what, if I was 2 feet off to
either direction and only five feet in front of it and missed? And,
yes... I did use the cross-cut saw to try my hand at branding. I put
the GSSP star brand (how creative!) on one side of the log slice and
the Frosty Acres "snowman smiley-face" brand on the other.

I asked our local wildlife expert & local "guru", Zoe, what birds were
doing their throaty vocalizations in the morning and she told me they
were the Sandhill Cranes. I'd heard that they were in the Tule Lake
region, but didn't know that I'd have the good fortune to hear them on
this trip. If you're a birder, there's lots of surprises to be found
at this spot. (Thanks Zoe, for everything! Ralph, another great person
from the area came by to say hi, disappeared for a while, came back
and surprised us... I just want to say for all of us "thanks for all
the fish"! Tastiest trout that I've ever had in my whole life & what a
complete surprise!!! We all enjoyed them.

Personally, I enjoyed watching all the kites flying in the western
field during the winds and breezes that predictably would cool us down
during the afternoon. You could say it felt like our northern
California version of "The Kite Flyer". I know I'll be sure to bring a
box kite next time. I especially liked the duck windsock and space
shuttle kites. After all the kite play, that wind dies down during
sunset. Great afternoon air-conditioning! It also served to drive a
lot of the smoke away by nightfall. People seemed to do a really good
job of staking their equipment, tents, & shelters down in our area.
The 9" steel nails seemed to do a great job. We nailed them into the
ground using a regular hammer.

What a unique site! I had no idea how much that area of California has
to offer and look forward to future adventures.

Susan

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GSSP 2008
Ivor Barker

Being on a grass site rather than TARMAC made a great difference in keeping
the heat down.

Kudos to the folks who found the site, and many thanks to all you organizers!

Is the registration list up for GSSP 2009 yet ? :-)

Cheers

--Ivor

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Gee Ess Ess Pea - Two Thousand Eight
Jeff Gortatowski

There are sooo many great memories. Honestly that is all that REALLY matters to me. Hundreds and 100s of great memories of the Golden State Star Party 2008. How does the committee do it!?? The first year and it is literally a walk off home run. Outta here. See ya. Jane, Marsha, Paul, Pete, Jo Bob, Mark, Rich G., Charlie, Susan, Bill, and the AMAZING cat herder himself, the apparently indefatigable Richard Ozer, well done. Just 'fantabulous'. Are there more superlatives I can add? Richard, as usual you rock.

I only just stuck the pictures on my computer so I have to sort through them and I'll get them uploaded to fototime soon. Nice thing about fototime is you can get access to the full resolution image should you so wish to.

Sunday Paul Alsing and I travel from deep in Southern California, up the I-5, over the Grapevine and on in the central valley. Forking off on to CA-99 we jammed on music until we stopped in Visalia. Paul has a cousin living there. Gloria is a fun, smart, energetic, naturally curious, and a gracious hostess. And did I mention fun? She would join us at GSSP in a few days.

Funny story - sort of. We ordered pizza to pickup. When we got there they had no record of the XL pizza being ordered by a 'Gloria'. We checked twice and even tried calling another store thinking we used the wrong number to phone it in. Nope. No pizza order by anyone called Gloria... fine. So we ordered a large pizza under the name of 'Paul'. 'bout 10 minutes later we heard from the counter 'Pizza for Gloria'. A slightly miffed and more than slightly surprised we quick stole away shaking our heads. An XL for the price of a L. They had *insisted* there was no order for 'Gloria'. Anyway we ate pizza and drank wine until Gloria offered us the use of her pool an hour or two later. We dialed the colored light in the pool to a suitable star party muted red color and spent the rest of a wonderful evening in the pool, looking up at Jupiter, and sipping wine until something like 1am. Her hospitality made our trip up a real pleasure.

By 11am Monday we were on our way to Redding. Paul has the most varied collection of music I have ever seen or heard. I honestly doubt ANYONE at GSSP has a more varied collection. And he had only a fraction on hand. I listened to more types of music from more artists than I have ever listened to in the rest of 49.5 years of life combined! Only he can tell you all the genres we listened to. There had to be 15 or more. And some really 'interesting' things as well, like 30+ variations of "Orange Blossom Special", and amazingly over 100 variations / renditions of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow". No, we did not listen to each and every variation... but still... he has a delightfully eclectic and amazing music collection. We pulled into Redding about 6:30pm, got our rooms and headed over to the foretold GSSP Committee meeting place at near the appointed hour. I had maybe 5 or 6 margaritas (by means nowhere even close to my 'limit') and proceed to partake in all manner of jokes and good cheer. So far... GSSP had started off very well indeed.

By 8:30am or so Tuesday Paul and I were 'On the Road to GSSP'. As we traveled up the 299 it was amazing how quickly it turns to rural America. We knew we were not in Kansas any more when at the Safeway in Burney I was asked twice in the first 5 minutes if I needed any help in finding an item and was personal guided over to whatever item was being sought. Then we were thanked at least twice at the cashier checkout. If someone knows the manager, pass on the kudos to the team!

We crested into the Big Valley and headed through Nubeiber (not so nu), Bieber, and along the "A-whatever it was (25??)" to Basset Rd. After turning around past the GSSP entrance, - more signage please - we turned into the site and got to work. First up: Helping to unload and raise two large covers for the hospitality tent. Once that was done, it was time to walk up and down the field several times to pace out the final layout which was, by exective order, made into 2 x 3 array of rectangles instead of the original 3 x 3. That turned out to be the Goldilocks size as any width smaller would have made for a far more cramped inner observing area. With corners and roads having been given 'the vampire trreatment', myself, Paul, and Bob Jardine set about the task of marking the road and rectangle corners with some caution tape. I gathered from some feedback that worked out fairly well. Beyond those six roughly rectangular regions of the universe, chaos was allowed to reign to the North. Valid comments written in the past 24 hours notwithstanding, the sense I had gotten walking around 'The North Chaotic Pole' was that chaos seemed to suit those there just fine.

Paul and I straightened away our camp and then, on (or about) the seventh second, of the seventh minute, of the seventh hour or so after arrival, we rested. Later that evening we were treated to something I'll never forget. Dinner over at Mo's Pizza... BTW: Mo's makes pretty fine pizza... now the pizza and beer joint over in Shingletown might be a tad better, but without my good friend and pizza aficionado Bill Dean to judge, I have no second opinion to go on. Oh yes... back to the amazing part... so we all sat down to a pizza dinner. I settled in next to the wonderful and always gracious Marsha Robinson and we all talked and had ice tea... I remember thinking the service seemed very friendly. I figured they generally don't get parties or 10 or 14 and what with the committee there, and Aaron Albaugh and his parents... well maybe they would get a bit behind or overwhelmed. But no... the service was excellent as they seem to have a few Waitresses on staff and able to keep up. There was one attractive 'waitress' who was constantly making sure everyone had anything they needed. The natives are indeed very friendly. Eventually after... oh maybe 20 minutes or so, and noticing the conspicuously empty chair next to Aaron Albaugh, I turn my chair and asked him, "Where is your wife? Will she be joining us?" I was embarrassed and a bit dumbfounded when he pointed to the friendly attractive 'waitress' and said, "Becky is right there..."

'Becky', or 'Red', or Rebecca was serving us! Apparently she knew where everything was in the back, knew the people working there, and AFAIK took it upon herself to help them out. We had to almost beg her to sit down and have dinner! Well almost! :) Oh and did I mention *we* were supposed to be taking the Albaugh's to dinner! Well everyone in that valley seems way more frien and helpful than you could imagine. Over the next few days I got to talk with Becky and she is an amazing, funny, charming, and very energetic person. And she is one whale of a host! (And I am not just saying that because of the cup cake!) If everyone treated everyone as good as we were... Aaron's father told me all about the old road that I could see from the overlooked miles away on the 299 as well as much of the valley history. It was all fascinating. I could have had a few more beers and pizza and talked with the Albaughs for a few more hours. Alas it ended too soon. Oh and speaking of Big Valley people... then there is 'Z'. Wow. What and amazing person. Bright, intelligent, easy to talk with (cat lover!). Basically told us if we needed something ask. Observed every night with us. Virtually a kindred sprit. Hope to see her many more times in the future. And Chris who brought water. And the guy who brought us fresh fish to grill!!
(Albert???)

Later that night another treat. My best buddies from San Jose and organizing committee regulars Susan and Charlie Wicks rolled in and setup next door. The Star Party can begin!

What a spot I had!!! In one rectangle I had
* Reigning "Observing Idol" Steve Gottlieb
* "Observing Idol" heir-apparent Alvin Huey
* "Observing Idol" Mark Wagner
* "Observing Idol" Paul Alsing
* My Starparty Guardian Angel Susan Wicks
* Maker of "Manly" telescopes extraordinaire Charlie Wicks and late night observing buddy
* My very good friend and telescope maker extraordinaire Eric Shrader
* Familiar friendly face from LBV and purveyor of Pilaga Piss John Hoey and his observing friend Ted Hupper.

Folks this is an observers heaven! I could not figure out who to impose myself on and observe with! :) Why did I bring my scope? Really good question. Oh sure! I was gonna 'observe by myself' under really dark skies... Get REAL! Look at the people I just mentioned! No friggin way! I mooched photons (and more) fast and hard. I made no apologies for 'inviting' myself. There is so much to learn and see with these folks... I knew I was on my way when the first night Mark Wagner let me buddy up with him and we teased out 4 members of Hickson 85 in Draco in his 45cm scope. Three without looking at the chart, then the last knowing where to look.

Jeff

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GSSP 2008 - An incredible week
Pete Santangeli

First off, I want to thank all the other committee members for making
working on GSSP a true joy. The results speak for themselves - we
built what will no doubt turn out to be on of the premier star parties
in North America. An event that successfully mixed families,
beginners, imagers and serious visual amateurs.

I also want to thank any people from the Adin area that are reading.
It was an amazingly welcoming experience. Going in to this, I had no
idea what was in that part of California. I had vague impressions of
lots of trees and valleys. The beautiful land and wonderful people
were a real revelation.

Most of the details of the week have been covered by others.
Highlights for me? Setup day that went so very smoothly. Trepidation
turning to joy when it became clear the smoke would not skunk us.
Working the gate and meeting so many new people. Afternoon winds that
cut the heat down. Flying Dan's kite. Afternoon hours whiled away in
great company. Presenting an imaging talk to a large and interested
audience that asked excellent questions. Conditions that seemed for
the most part to improve by the day. A great farm tour. Fabulous food.
An outstanding Saturday night.

Thanks to everyone for making the event a huge success!

Pete

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Thanks to the Albaughs and the GSSP Organizers
Craig Bobchin

Well I'm back home after a week away, and approx 1500 mile round trip
to some of the darkest (I'd add clearest, but the smoke took that
option away this year) skies i've seen in a long long time.

I had a great 4 days at GSSP 2008 (and I have to give special thanks
for accepting us SSP refugees in).

I had a blast and have to say that I'll be back next year. I learned a
few things about doing these multi-day star parties (quite a bit
different from RTMC) that I'll take into account for next year.

I have a lot of thoughts to put down, but will save them for after
I've had a bit of sleep.

Craig Bobchin

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GSSP: 4 nights of peace and stars...
Jeff Crilly

Ok.. Since I was only there Friday and Saturday night, I suppose it was
"_Two_ nights of peace and stars"** for me.

** see the t-shirt for the reference.

My #1 complaint:  Too short of a trip!

Hats off to the organizers... When I think of the effort and _time_ put in,
it is appreciated.
Excellent catering .. The Frosty Acres beef catered dinner was fantastic.
The Friday dinner was also great.

Btw, for my two nights... Friday night was good, Saturday was even better.
Saturday was amazing.. Total cloud out in the afternoon.. Then total
_clearing_ at night... That is the best weather.. Natural shade.

Jeff Crilly

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GSSP 2008
David Cooper

I arrived on Wednesday at around 11:30 AM and observed
all 4 nights with my son Nathaniel.  I observed with
my AP155 and Nathaniel used my old and reliable C8.
We set up near Rob Hawley and Rob Enns as well as
several others observing with large Dobs.  We almost
bailed on Saturday, but sure glad we decided to ride
out the clouds!  Saturday night was great and I think
showed what dark skies this site can deliver.  Since I
observe with a relatively small instrument, dark
transparent skies are important and seem to add inches
of aperture.

One thing that impressed me about this site is the
consistently steady seeing - observing M57 directly
overhead at 355x on Saturday revealed at least 3 stars
embedded in the nebula itself - something I have
glimpsed only on rare occasions before. Likewise M27
revealed ~ 6 stars embedded in the nebula (in addition
to the central star itself). Never saw this level of
detail on the runway at Sizzletown. Impressive!

Even though the skies were not always cooperative,
this was a great event - this site is superb and a
very promising one for the future.  I want to thank
all of those who volunteered their valuable time to
make this event possible.  Thank you Richard, Jane,
Mark, Kevin...as well as the Albaugh family who
graciously hosted us!  I am looking forward to GSSP
2009!!

David Cooper

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Peace and Starlight in Adin
Eric Shrader

Just wanted to say thanks to the organizers of this fantastic star party. It is always extra tough to do something like this for the first time in a new location, I know there are a zillion details to work out, but you made it look easy. You couldn't have chosen a friendlier spot and even with the smoke, the observing was great. I'm still trying to figure out how you got control of the wind switch to turn it off each evening so we could observe. :-) This was a well run operation from beginning to end.

I set up my puny 14.5 at the end of the row of big boys so I'd also like to thank Ted and John for sharing their hard-fought homemade shade. I'd especially like to thank Paul, Jeff, Charlie and Susan, for being so inclusive and letting me (and anyone else who wandered by) mooch some of their shade, put some of the party in star party and share so much of their observing talent, maybe you will make a decent observer out of me yet.

It's the people who make this event.

Cheers, Eric

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Home On The Range

2009-05-28T08:04:00.000-07:00

How this traditional American song seems to fit GSSP!

Oh, give me a home where the buffalo roam
And the deer and the antelope play
Where seldom is heard a discouraging word
And the skies are not cloudy all day

Home, home on the range
Where the deer and the antelope play
Where seldom is heard a discouraging word
And the skies are not cloudy all day

How often at night when the heavens are bright
With the light from the glittering stars
Have I stood there amazed and asked as I gazed
If their glory exceeds that of ours

Home, home on the range
Where the deer and the antelope play
Where seldom is heard a discouraging word
And the skies are not cloudy all day

Where the air is so pure, the zephyrs so free
The breezes so balmy and light
That I would not exchange my home on the range
For all of the cities so bright

Home, home on the range
Where the deer and the antelope play
Where seldom is heard a discouraging word
And the skies are not cloudy all day

Oh, I love those wild flow'rs in this dear land of ours
The curlew, I love to hear scream
And I love the white rocks and the antelope flocks
That graze on the mountaintops green

Home, home on the range
Where the deer and the antelope play
Where seldom is heard a discouraging word
And the skies are not cloudy all day

Food and Supplies

2009-05-27T16:33:00.000-07:00

Dinners and breakfast will be available on-site at the star party:

Friday a local community organization will host BBQ dinners on site.
Saturday morning plans are for a pancake breakfast available on site.
Saturday evening, Frosty Acres Ranch will offer a farm fresh BBQ of grass fed beef and corn-on-the-cob.

Additionally, the towns of Adin and Bieber offer:

Adin Supply Company
Groceries, Deli & Wine

NELSONS FROSTY
302 S Main
Adin, CA 96006
(530) 299-3316