Information posted by Bob Baikauskas

 

For those who would like to capture a beautiful Milky Way Galaxy Photo this coming July and August will provide an opportunity.  Loon Lake in the El Dorado National Forest provides a beautiful setting.

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Last July a group of five Club Members made the trip and came back with some very nice images.  The group consisted of Allen Adler, Bob Baikauskas, Pete Henshaw, Dale Petersen and Brad Senn.  You can see their photos in the Gallery below, and read the trip report  HERE 

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This year the Nights of July 24, 25, & 26 and August 21, 22, 23 will be virtually moonless when the Galaxy becomes visible.  July will be the preferred month as the Galaxy will be more directly in a Southern position whereas in August it will be in a slightly Southwestern position.  This will move it more in the direction of Placerville so the horizon may be brighter than in July.

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The Galaxy will be visible from approximately 10:00 PM to 2:30 AM in July and from 9:30 PM to 1:00 AM in August.  Given the remoteness of Loon Lake, you will most likely want to make camping arrangements.

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Below is some initial information to help you make plans if you decide to make the trip.  If you want to go in July move quickly to reserve your campsite reservations as sites are getting  scarce. Here are links to the Government Site where you can make reservations:

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https://www.recreation.gov/camping/loon-lake/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=NRSO&parkId=70293

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The site also provides detailed information regarding camping in the Loon Lake are.  There are also a number of campsites available on a "First-come, First-served" basis.

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More detailed information will be published in the June website update.