This year was, as usual, a great time. Every evening we were treated to a spectacular sunset

A few years ago I decided to rent a U-haul cargo van for star parties. It costs a bit more, but this way I save the wear and tear and mileage on my car. Gives new meaning to the phrase, "Living out of my van."

Sunset on Tuesday evening

Rod was my neighbor last year and had the pleasure to be neighbors again this year. The Dob is Rod's new baby.

Looking toward "The Valley of the Dobs." Al's RV is just at the left edge

Sunset on Wednesday evening with my Celestron 9.25"

Enjoying the expansive dark skies and quiet atmosphere at the observing field.

Beginning on Thursday evening, we got the added treat of a waxing crescent moon just after sunset.

Observing field view during the afternoon lull.

South end of "The Valley of the Dobs."

Fellow astronomers catching up between observing sessions.

The Big Top, where we enjoy our evening "feeds" and after dinner speakers

SCAC president, Jim.

Always have to get a picture of Bill. This is the first time I got a picture of him without him peering into his telescope, collimating.

Saturday afternoon. This was our last day for observing. Saturday night turned out to be the best night we had this year. As you can see from the picture, a lot of folks had already departed.

My neighbor on the other side from Rod, Steve with one of his many homemade telescopes. He ground the mirrors himself and they're excellent. His woodworking is first-rate as well. Here he's really excited to have just discovered the Moon. :)

Thursday I had Fred's old solar scope out and spent a lot more time in the Sun. Despite my big umbrella, I still got a good burn. The low Sun makes it look worse than it really was.

Thursday's sunset.

Ron with his rig. I spent the first three nights imaging M27, the Dumbbell Nebula. It was my first foray back into imaging since Covid. Unfortunately I must have done something wrong as they wouldn't combine into a color image. Hopefully, I'll have better luck at CalStar in the Fall.

What a great sunset!