Azbec

1 hour ago, Mr Spock said:

Sunday night looks clear so the Variable Star workshop is looking good. Everyone welcome  You'll get guidance first hand on observing variables using the scope I use.
The morning session covers all the practical and science stuff. Do you know how many types of variables there are? Variables help us understand the science of stellar evolution from birth to grave  There'll be practical stuff like how to read variable star charts; how to record observations; making magnitude estimates; understanding Julian dates and all the other wibbly-wobbly timey-wimey stuff!

Sounds fascinating - I'll make sure to pack my pens!

Really can't wait for this now! I'll make sure to bake some banana bread to bring!

New glass arrived yesterday (Skyliner 200P)! I've spent a few hours today learning to collimate it (Astro Baby's guide has been super helpful for this) - didn't need to touch the secondary but all will be proven at first light. My only gripe I have so far is that the eyepiece storage is slightly too close to the mount for some of my fatter 1.25" EPs so I think some washers will be going on to space it away a little bit. Apologies for the cloudy skies!

13 hours ago, DRT said:

I think recommended rather than required. I have run my observation kit without one at the site three times without a problem but if you have a pile of imaging kit attached it is probably sensible to have an RCD in there somewhere.

26 minutes ago, cjdawson said:

You'd be extremely well adviced to have an RCD somewhere in the system when plugging into the EHU.

If you are camping then something like this would do the job....

https://www.leisureoutlet.com/mains-hook-ups-and-inverters/electric-and-power/camping-and-outdoors/36740-maypole-230v-mobile-mains-unit?gclid=Cj0KCQjwruPNBRCKARIsAEYNXIjcce1AjcMo10YKv-90kxumkc99NWyp_IGrhbKs8iKpSCqQx8gcggQaAooAEALw_wcB

If you have a caravan/motorhome, then then should already be one inside the van.

 

Personally I think anyone that doesn't have an RCD somewhere in their setup is asking for trouble.

Thanks both. I'll make sure to get ahold of one!

Is an RCD required for the electric hookups at the site?

Thanks Gav! While I can't vouch for the spectrum of my knowledge (I've only been observing for just over two years); I'm more than happy to have a punt!

Finally time to break my silence during 2 years of lurking on this forum.

It's going to be my first time attending a star party. Really looking forward to meeting you all and learning a lot!