Astro Camps

The Flinders Ranges are splendid. It's ideal for bushwalking, and coupled with the amazingly clear air and dark skies makes the Flinders a perfect destination for an astronomy camp. Explore the historic town of Blinman, take a walk to the Blinman Pools, see the spectacular Parachilna and Brachina gorges and drive through the scenic Aroona Valley. But don't forget that the real purpose of going to the Flinders Ranges is to enjoy the star-studded skies.

Our camp will be held at Alpana Station, just south of Blinman on the Wilpena-Blinman Road. The distance from Adelaide is 505 kilometres, so allow at least six hours for the journey.

Plan to arrive at Alpana by mid-afternoon to allow time to set yourself up in your accommodation, before a late afternoon stroll around the property. After dinner, get ready for some serious observing. We'll provide you with a target list of interesting objects, some will be familiar celestial showpieces, others will test your telescope and your observing prowess.

Saturday and Sunday we can explore the historic town of Blinman, take a walk to the Blinman Pools, see the spectacular Parachilna and Brachina gorges, and drive through the scenic Aroona Valley. But don't forget, the real purpose for you driving to the Flinders Ranges is to enjoy the starstudded skies!

Monday we pack-up to drive back home. If time permits, you may want to take a detour into Wilpena Pound.

These camps do not feature lectures or workshops. They are purely aimed at deep-sky observing into the early hours of the morning. Sightseeing and bushwalking during the daylight hours is encouraged.

What you need:

• All meals, drinks & snacks. We may go to the Blinman Hotel or Parachilna Pub for dinner on Sunday evening. There is a BBQ outside, and the fully equipped kitchen will provide all the facilities you need. Make sure you bring all provisions, as there is nowhere to purchase foodstuffs. I recommend you plan your meals as a means of deciding what you need to bring with you.
• Swag, bedroll and/or sleeping bag and pillow for the onsite accommodation. Each room comprises two single beds with mattress. Clothing appropriate for the forecast conditions and sturdy footwear, as well as a hat, sunscreen and sunnies. Make sure you bring warm clothing for observing. It gets bloody cold at night!
• TELESCOPE, cameras/videos, binoculars, charts, torch, etc.

Where to stay:

Accommodation is provided in the shearers quarters. There are 7 rooms, each with two single beds. There are now 4 sites for caravans/campervans also available.

Cost:

• $25 per person per night for shearer's quarters
• $11 per persn for night for campers

Bookings:

If you intend to come, you must book. Contact Joe Grida via e-mail or on (08) 8388 5980 after hours. Because numbers are restricted, bookings will be taken on a first come basis.

Alpana Station, Flinders Ranges