Spring Star Party

The Spring Star Party was held this weekend at Leeuwenboschfontein, up on the plateau between Touws River and Montagu further down, at a height of nearly 1 000m above sea level. We were a little earlier than last year, and September has seen a good deal of snow, much of which fell in the nearby Matroosberg just before the event. I camped in a very insubstantial tent last time, and readers may remember that I wore four layers of clothing in my sleeping bag, with two blankets on top, but still froze at 2 degrees C. Sensibly, I booked a chalet this time and was impervious to the 0 and -2 that we experienced! Not only was it freezing cold, it was also wet, with unseasonal and unusual rain from the west and south-east, so pity the poor campers. However, feedback was that they still had a good time, so perhaps seasoned campers are made of sterner stuff. Or their sense of adventure knows no bounds.
Despite the weather, we enjoyed two nights of intermittently clear skies and saw celestial objects that were both awe-inspiring and interesting. The many very knowledgeable and in some cases, brilliant minds that attend these star parties expanded our insight of the known universe and left us curious to know more. A large display of homemade and 'rescued' telescopes showed us that bits of old washing machine and pot lids can produce the same results as the expensive commercial telescopes - good to know that there are so many inventive and innovative people around. A number of talks were given to ensure that we received mental as well as visual stimulation, and these were thoroughly enjoyed by all.
A domesticated lynx frequented the campsite, rubbing itself against our legs like a large cat, but always alert for danger and slightly jumpy. Apparently reared by a local farmer and causing havoc with chickens and some domestic cats - one can only hope it doesn't suffer the fate of many other
'problem' animals. It was very special to be in its presence.
As always, the last morning dawned still and clear, promising to be a stunning day, but work beckoned and it was time to hit the road back to Cape Town, once the layer of ice had thawed on the car! As I crested the last hill out of the valley, I was greeted by a breathtaking view of brilliant white, snow-capped mountains along the horizon, at a perfect level for appreciation, before descending the escarpment once again and watching the car temperature indicator rise from 1 degree to 17 by the time I exited the Huguenot Tunnel, returning to the bustle of city life after a most welcome four days literally away from it all.
Thanks to all concerned in the mammoth task of organisation and execution!

Snow, sun and a burst of heavy rain in one photo!