The Winter Star Party 2023 “WSP” will be held in the Florida Keys at Camp Weesumkee from February 13th thru February 19th. The organizers note that they WSP event space was not severely damaged by the recent Florida hurricane and the event will again be in full swing.
The Winter Star Party 2023 is hosted by the Southern Cross Astronomical Society of Miami and is unique in that it occurs mid-winter during the height of the Florida Keys tourist season. The warm weather, coupled with dark skies, and possibly the steadiest skies in North America attracts attendees from all over the frozen United States, Canada, and Europe giving the event an international flavor.
The event has been held during a new moon week each February since 1984 and experiences more than 500 amateur astronomers who travel to the warm subtropics of the Florida Keys. During the event attendees experience nightly observing in 360 degrees of clear Borrtle 3 skies with an average SQM of 21.76, a treat for astrophotographers and observers alike.
In addition to the steady night skies, attendees can exchange information and advice, listen to distinguished guest speakers, shop for astronomical equipment from the finest vendors across the globe, participate in photo contests & workshops, go sightseeing in the “Conch Republic,” and record the awesome beauty sparkling in the southern night skies.
Along with the traditional Beachwalk and Laser Tour, this year the event hosts will be adding a new evening talk: An Introduction to Celestial Navigation. SCAS member and commercial pilot, Martin Caminos, will be demonstrating how to operate a sextant and its use in navigating the earth by the stars.
The WSP is also offering “Glam Tents” which provide air-conditioning and have electric service. Each Glam Tent has 1 main room with smaller sleeping quarters off to the side. The Glam Tent pricing will be $350 per person for the entire week of the star party with no additional camping fees.
More information about the Winter Star Party 2023 is available here.
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