Mt Kobau Star Party registration opens

The 39th annual Mt. Kobau Star Party will commence on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at dusk, welcoming astronomers and stargazing enthusiasts to a week of celestial observations and camaraderie. Typically, around 80 participants gather for this event, enjoying both the stunning night skies and the company of fellow astronomy lovers. The cost for attending varies, with single-night rates starting at $25 for one person and multiple-night packages available for both individuals and groups. This year's star party promises another unforgettable experience on the majestic slopes of Mt. Kobau.

Mt Kobau Star Party registration information

Pre-registration is preferred for the 2024 Mt. Kobau Star Party. Unfortunately, it is not possible to reserve space at the mountain top.

Pre-registrations can be mailed with payment by cheque or money order. On-site registration is also available.

The rates for 2024 remain the same as last year, as shown in the table below.

To register, click the "Reg. Form" button below to obtain/print a copy.

Payments should be made by cheque or money order in Canadian funds, payable to Mount Kobau Astronomical Society. Mail to: MKSP Registrar, 1069 Calmels Crescent, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 4L6.

One person

• One night: $25.00
• Two nights: $50.00
• More than two nights: $75.00

Two or more persons

• One night: $35.00
• Two nights: $70.00
• More than two nights: $100.00

MKSP 2024 schedule of events

Talks may be postponed in the event of bad weather. Times here are tentative. Check at the Registration Desk for the most current information.

Saturday, Aug. 3

• MKSP begins at dusk. Arrivals in the afternoon.
   

Sunday, Aug. 4

• 2:00 - 4:00 pm – Registration/Reception
• 4:14 am New Moon
   

Monday, Aug. 5

• 2:00 - 4:00 pm – Registration/Reception
• 9:25 pm Moonset 2% illuminated
   

Tuesday, Aug. 6

• 2:00 - 4:00 pm – Registration/Reception

Wednesday, Aug. 7

• New Moon - 2:39 am
• 2:00 - 4:00 pm – Registration/Reception
• 3:00 pm @ The Flats – Speaker: Ken Hewitt-White
• 9:51 pm Moonset 10% illuminated
• 8:27 pm Sunset
   

Thursday, Aug. 8

• 2:00 - 4:00 pm – Registration/Reception
• 7:00 pm @ The Flats – Speaker: Murray Paulson
   

Friday, Aug. 9

• 2:00 - 4:00 pm – Registration/Reception
• 7:00 pm The Flats – Speaker: Peter Ceravolo
• 9:30 pm @ The Flats – Binocular Star Walk
• 10:15 pm Moonset 24% illuminated
   

Saturday, Aug. 10

• 2:00 - 3:00 pm – Registration/Reception
• Morning - ATM Contest Judging Walkabout
• Noon - Deadline for Photo Contest Submissions
• 3:00 pm @ The Flats: Closing Ceremonies
• 7:00 pm @ The Flats – Speaker: Tony Puerzer
   

Sunday, Aug. 11

• MKSP ends at dawn. Departures by mid-day.
   

Lectures and topics

MKSP 2024 is excited to present the following guest speakers during the event from August 3-11.

On August 8, veteran eclipse chaser Murray Paulson will share stories of three total solar eclipses.

On August 9, optics expert Peter Ceravolo will discuss the construction of a very large amateur telescope.

On August 10, Tony Puerzer will provide a simple recipe for astro-imaging success.

Additionally, Murray Paulson will lead a Binocular Starwalk on August 9, weather permitting.

2024 Mt. Kobau Skies

Contests, pins, and awards

MKSP traditionally offers awards in various categories. For more information on participation, inquire upon arrival. Judging occurs on Saturday morning, so it is necessary to express interest beforehand.

Imaging categories

• Prime Focus
• Piggyback
• Camera On Tripod
• Novice Astrophoto
• Daytime Photo
• Nature
   

Equipment making categories

• Mechanical Excellence
• Most Innovative Design
• First Time Telescope
• Dobsonian Telescope
• Astronomical Equipment
   

Sketching or drawing categories

• Sketching and Drawing from the Telescope
   

Observing lists

MKSP provides observing suggestions aimed at offering a sense of accomplishment. Experience levels range from beginner to seasoned amateur. Completed lists earn a pin and recognition on the MKSP website.

Observing lists include:

• UnAided Eye List: For beginners using only their eyes.
• Bright Objects List: Suitable for beginners with binoculars or small telescopes.
• Intermediate Objects List: Requires at least a small to medium-sized telescope.
• Challenge List: For experienced astronomers with large aperture telescopes.

Download and print the lists from their website and bring them to the star party. Completed forms should be submitted to the registration desk during operating hours.

About the MKSP Star Party

Mt. Kobau is a unique location, featuring a great rampart that separates two ancient river valleys. The mountain's grassland slopes ascend rapidly on either side, transitioning from scattered pines to dense forests of fir.

Approximately a mile above the rivers, the forest opens up to a sub-alpine ridge.

Here, wildflowers flourish among resilient conifers and sagebrush. The daytime offers an expansive view, while nighttime reveals an equally vast starlit sky.

The Mt. Kobau Star Party attracts those with a passion for stargazing, offering an experience that challenges both equipment and personal endurance. The rugged road to the summit can disrupt telescope alignment, and the cold nighttime temperatures test the observer's determination.

Participants often find that the effort is worthwhile, with the reward being a sense of exhilaration when packing up their equipment at dawn as the last stars fade.

Known as a gathering for dedicated astronomers, the Mt. Kobau Star Party welcomes all enthusiasts, from seasoned veterans to eager beginners. Attendees should be prepared for the challenges posed by the location to fully enjoy the event.

View the video below of Trevor Jones's (AstroBackyard) experience at the Mt. Kobau Star Party 2 years prior.

Register here

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