UPDATE 11/1 : We are a GO!!!! The current weather forecast is calling for clear skies and temperatures in the upper 50’s at sunset, with light winds and temperatures falling to around 40 by the end of the event.
It should also be noted that construction on Hwy 77 and recent traffic pattern changes in the Jonesville/Elkin can lead to heavy traffic backups. The suggested route is going Hwy 67 West (Reynolda Rd) to Boonville, right on Hwy 601 (for 1.6 miles past the Yadkin River), to left on Mt. Herman Church Rd. to its end at Hwy 268 (1.8 miles), then left on Hwy 268 for 2.7 miles, then right on CC Camp Rd, to Hwy 21 north in Elkin (then proceed as normal to Stone Mountain SP).
Saturday November 2nd the Forsyth Astronomical Society will host an observation at Stone Mountain State Park in the family camping area. This is primarily an event for the campers of the park but the public is welcome to attend. The sun will set at around 6:30 pm and we will start showing objects as they become visible in dusk. With the moon being in waxing crescent, The Moon, Saturn, Jupiter and other bright objects will be our primary targets until it sets behind the mountains. Then we can show you some deeper more faint objects such as galaxies and nebula.
This IS a weather dependent event. This post and the club’s Facebook page will be updated to reflect a final weather call on Friday November 1st. As of this posting the current weather forecast is calling for mostly sunny skies and temperatures in the upper 50’s at sunset, with clearing skies, light winds, and temperatures falling to around 40 by the end of the event. This forecast looks reasonably certain. However, you will want to double check that final weather decision before coming out.
Please note the observation site on the campsite map below. Access to the site can be gained via a grassy path marked by traffic cones between sites 33 and 34. If you are a non camping attendee, please park at the bathhouse near the observation site or along the grassy median away from campsites along the main road. Please refrain from using flashlights or cell phones in the observation area. If you feel you need a flashlight to get you to the observation site, please point them downward on your approach and turn them off when you reach the field. Your eyes will dark adapt in 10-15 minuets and I promise you, you will be able to see fine to navigate around. If you find you have need for lighting to find something, ask a member and they can provide a red light flashlight to help you. Please be respectful and do not walk through other’s campsites.
You must be logged in to post a comment.