GRASSA - General Information

Meetings of The Garden Route Centre of the Astronomical Society of Southern Africa take place every first Saturday of the month at 15:00 at the Library Hall in Sedgefield - it is opposite the Post office.

Once a month we have a guest speaker (a professional astronomer or other relevant expert). The other meetings take the form of talks by members, practical observing evenings, social events and occasional club outings. These offer opportunities for our members to exchange ideas and learn from one another.

We are a group of amateur astronomers, mainly from George, Sedgefield, Knysna and the surrounding environment. Our members range from beginners to experts and come from different backgrounds and ages. We welcome all who are interested in astronomy.

No, you do not need to own astronomical equipment to join - nor do you have to be a seasoned observer. All you need is an interest in the night sky and the universe out there. However, some of our members are very experienced observers and they are prepared to share their knowledge with newcomers.

Our members are fascinated by in many aspects of amateur astronomy, so whatever your special interest is, you are likely to encounter like-minded people at Garden Route Astronomical Centre.

For more information on joining GRASSA or attending one of our monthly meetings, please contact Case Rijsdijk on Tel: 044 877 1180 or by E-Mail: Particles@mweb.co.za

Southern Star Party

The Southern Star Party takes place at least twice a year. The site is on a farm near Bonnievale, in the Western Cape.

A Star Party is not a loud music, stage diving, disco ball (we actually try to avoid light) affair. It is the getting together of people with a common interest, the stars (or planets, or clusters – you get the picture), spending time sharing their experiences, their passion and looking up.

A Star Party is where everyone with a love of astronomy can have a great time exploring the skies. From the complete newbie with no equipment, to the experience stargazer with hi-tech ‘scopes. You do not have to own your own telescope to enjoy a weekend of skygazing with us, but if you do, come early (before dark), so that you can get a nice spot to set up your equipment.

The first SSP held was during the weekend of 4 - 6 March 2011 and it was a huge success. The second SSP was held more recently (October 2011) and I'm sure everyone that attended it is still catching up on some sleep.

During the day there where time to explore the area, attend astronomy related talks, or just relax and recharge to be ready for all night star gazing.

The next Southern Star Party in Bonnievale is planned for March 2012, but watch this space or visit the SSP site for more info closer to the time.

Upcoming Events

Astronomy Club Events

Title: GRASSA Monthly Centre Meeting
Start date: Saturday, 3 March 2012
Start time: 15:00 pm
End time: 16:30 pm
Organizer/Speaker: Case Rijsdijk
Location: Library Hall, Sedgefield.

Description / Subject:
"Supernovae, The 25th anniversary of 1987A Supernova"

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Star Party Events

Title:Autumn 2012
Who: All interested in Astronomy - All Levels
When: 23-25 March 2012
Time: Late Afternoon/Early evening (Friday)
Where: Bonnievale, Western Cape. (Maps)
Organizers: Auke Slotegraaf, Edward & Lynnette Foster (Apologies if I missed anyone)
S/P Website: http://southernstarparty.org
Cost: Fee/cost will be announced closer to the Deep Sky Event. It is dependant on how many people attend. The fee will include on-site accomodation, workshop materials, tea/coffee and light snacks. The fee does not include any meals. E&OE

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Live Broadcast Events - Night Skies Network

Title: To be Announced
Who: All Interested in Astronomy
When: To be Announced
Time: To be Announced
Host: Lucas Ferreira
Where: Only on NSN, Channel "LucAstronomy"
NSN Website: http://www.nightskiesnetwork.com
Cost: Free (Registration only Required)

Objects to be Observed / Streamed:
"To be Announced"