Observing near coast - Good/Bad ?

[Bart]

Hello all

I wondered if observing near water is good or bad. I've been directed to a dark sky location but its close to the sea. Would observing near a body of water be bad for transparency or seeing ?

Thanks for any input !

Bart

[Grunthos]

The salt ain't going to do much for your optics (especially reflectors).

If you are talking about weather (esp. microclimates) then that is a long and complicated subject.

[umadog]

It should be good for the seeing since the water doesn't produce the sort of turbulence associated with warm land. I believe this is one reason why astronomers such as Patrick Moore have set up shop in Selsey, which is on the South Coast.

I don't know how far from the sea you need to be in order to avoid salt contamination. I would guess it's only going to be carried by spray and so only be a problem if you're very near the sea. Not sure, though.

I observe fairly near the sea and I don't believe it leads to particular problems regarding transparency or even humidity. Being surrounded by lots of greenery seems to be worse in that regard. So try out the spot: it may well be good.

[hes not well again]

I live by the sea in Dunoon and the only downside seems to be the fog that boils up on freezing nights. Has to be a still night tho.

[Bart]

thanks all, I'm dying to give it a go, so I'll give it a bash.

Bart