Sunset is 4:46 p.m. November 11. The drive from Monrovia is 216 miles,
so allow 3.5 hours. Weather is partly cloudy but we are hoping for some
decent stargazing. It will dip into the 40's overnight, so bring layers.
Directions on the Mojave National Preserve Conservancy Facebook event
page:
https://www.facebook.com/MojaveNationalPreserveConservancy/ Black
Canyon Group Campsite, 10 miles north of I-40 on Essex road, then 10
miles north of Essex Road on Black Canyon Road. You'll see signs for
both the Hole In The Wall Campsite/Visitor Center, and the Black Canyon
Group and equestrian campsites. We'll probably set up in the equestrian
campsite since we have an ultralight trailer, and save parking spaces
for the campers in the group area. Cell phone coverage is not good past
the turnoff to Essex Road from the I-40. Park Map:
https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/maps.htm
From the Mojave National Preserve Conservancy page: "For those joining
us for the Star Party on Saturday:
- We have over 150 RSVPs for the event. If there are no spaces to camp
when you arrive at the Black Canyon Group and Equestrian Campground,
consider setting up your tent at the Hole in the Wall campground about a
mile down the road.
-Dinner on Saturday is pot luck. We welcome any dishes or snacks that
you would like to bring and share.
-Weather: Currently, the forecast calls for highs in the 60s or lower
70s during the day. At night, temperatures could dip into the 40s.
Please bring layers. The forecast also suggests that the skies may be
partly cloudy. Keep an eye on the forecast and keep your fingers crossed
for as few clouds as possible so that we have a clear view of the stars."
See you Friday night for those arriving early, and Saturday night for
the potluck and star party. We'll share views Friday night, too!
--
Jane Houston Jones
@jhjones @otastro
What's Up Video November:
Planet pairs & moon passes stellar superstars!
https://youtu.be/7HPQAVFGrQ4