September 25th - 28th, 2008
The weather was perfect except for some dew at night. Attendance was up at over 250 people many of whom were first timers. The array of equipment was spectacular as usual. Observing ranged from naked eye, to a 28 inch dob, with everything in-between. Many astro-imagers also brought their equipment to capture the views from River Valley for everyone to enjoy long after the event was over.
Friday event chair Kevin Dehne and keynote speaker Michael Bakich of Astronomy Magazine welcomed everyone to really get the weekend events in full swing. Lisa, our food vendor, became the center of attention with her fabulous biscuits and gravy.
One of the highlights on Saturday was a great turnout for our childrens activites with over 20 kids participating this year. Norbert Vance of Eastern Michigan University treated the kids in all of us to some great rocket launches - thanks again Norb! Keynote speaker Michael Bakich once again wowed attendees with a wonderful talk. Michael "Scott" Foerster of NASA's JPL and Riders Hobby Shops own John Kirchhoff also gave presentations that were well received and informative. This all lead up to the highly anticipated door prize drawings. Our vendors and sponsors out did themselves once again and door prizes were awarded to all the children (under 14) who attended as well as many adults. Prizes ranged from planispheres to eyepieces. Vendors and sponsors, we can never say it enough - THANK YOU!
The final event before our last night of observing began was the raffle drawing. This year a 13mm Ethos eyepiece was the center of attention. Everyone was envious of the winner.