[Launch Alert] Asteroid Observing Trip

[Brian Webb]

           ASTRONOMY/SPACE ALERT FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
				  
			 Brian Webb, KD6NRP
		     Ventura County, California
		    E-mail: kd6nrp@earthlink.net
	      Web Site: http://home.earthlink.net/~kd6nrp
				       
				           2002 August 17 (Saturday) 12:15 PDT
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                  ASTEROID OBSERVING TRIP UPDATE

As I mentioned in the previous issue of this newsletter, I'm planning
to observe tonight's asteroid flyby from the mountains north of
Santa Barbara.

I spoke with a weather forecaster at 11:30 this morning. He stated
since my observing site (the cement water cistern) is at 3,000 feet
above sea level, it will probably be just above the coastal clouds.

However, if you drive up to the water cistern tonight and it's socked
in by clouds, continue up the road to the alternate observing location
near the FAA communications site. The comm site is an unattended
structure with numerous antennas. It's several hundred feet higher
than the water cistern and has a greater probability of being any
clouds.

Although I'll be bringing along my venerable 8-inch telescope, if you
plan on joining us and own a telescope or tripod-mounted binoculars
please bring them. 

Also, please try to arrive before 8:30 p.m.