BIGJUP! Star Party - A Celebration with Jupiter!

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Let's come together to celebrate the Opposition of Jupiter!!!

Be awed with the views of the biggest planet in our solar system, Big Jupiter, at one of the best times this year! Newbies, veterans, enthusiasts, all are welcomed! Please bring your biggest and newest gear, family and friends, and have an absolutely awesome experience under the stars, here in Singapore!

BIGJUP! Star Party
Venue - Angsana Green big field, East Coast Park (near the Lagoon Hawker Centre)
Date/Time - 4th November 2023 Saturday 6:30PM onwards

See you there! Feel free to share the news!!



General Information about the event:

1) What is the Opposition of Jupiter?
During the period of 3/4th November, our famous gas giant planet - Jupiter will be at opposition. From the viewpoint of our Earth's surface, opposition happens when an astronomical object rises in the east as the Sun sets in the west, placing the object and the Sun on opposite sides of Earth. Jupiter's opposition occurs every 13 months, making the planet appear larger and brighter than any other time of the year.

2) What can we expect to see?
If you have access to a pair of binoculars, you will be able to make out at least the central banding (of Jupiter), and three or four of the Galilean satellites (moons) that look like star-like points of light.

However, during the BigJup! event at the East Coast Park, where there will be several telescope instruments available for the public to enjoy view of Jupiter, one can expect to see more bands on the Jovian surface, and many other details like belts, festoons, ovals, etc. And you will certainly be able to see at least all four Galilean moons.


3) Where can we expect to see Jupiter?
On BigJup! event evening, Jupiter will be very obvious to the naked eye, as a very bright "not twinkling star" in the east.


4) What else can we expect at the BigJup! event?
As there will be several members of the amateur astronomy community, attendees can expect to interact with fellow avid enthusiasts, admire and gain insights on various astronomical equipment present, be able to see other celestial sights in the skies (check them out with the fellow telescope owners).


5) What should we not expect?
Clouds and rain! They need to go away! Oh, the haze too. Fingers crossed!

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Update: location will likely be at the big field next to the Lagoon hawker centre at ecp (also next to the big carpark).

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Update: Poster revised with exact ECP location details. Encouraged to bring your instruments if available! Do come early too!

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Update: Included site picture in original post (at the bottom). Looking good!

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updated original post with more information. see you next Saturday!

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The event is tomorrow!

Few key reminders if you are attending:

[Key Points to Note]

- Be there Early: Although the event formerly starts at 6:30pm, you are encouraged to be there earlier, you could have dinner at the nearby hawker centre, have ample time to not just set up but interact with fellow enthusiasts, etc. After all, during the day, it is easier to see one another too, make new friends, etc.

- Telescope Owners: Please bring along your telescope covers just in case. Ensure batteries are charged adequately prior to coming (if your setup requires power). Note also there is no electricity provisioning on-site.

- Those who are planning to Drive: if you are driving, being early may be a wise choice, since you will be able to get lots just immediately adjacent to the field, and won't have to walk a distance.

- Weather: like last public event, even if it is cloudy, most of us will be there. however, if it is raining, maybe wait a while, or if you are already there, the nearest shelter will be the bicycle kiosk shop next to the field.

- Belongings: You are responsible for your own belongings. As we may have a sizable crowd in attendance, please make sure you look after your instruments and belongings. Have someone look after your setup for you, if you need to be away. Recommended: For each setup, try to have another person to help you.

- Contingency - Likelihood of Incidents: Should there be any mishaps, incidents, complications arising at the field on that day, please direct them to Remus.

Also, please be mindful of the following:

- No littering. All trash generated from your should be bagged, and disposed of responsibly.
- No tying/ attaching of objects/ articles/structures on any tree/plant/ park property;
- No causing of disamenity/ obstruction of pavement/ access to any member of public;
- No open fire/cooking;
- No vehicular access all times, unless otherwise permitted;
- No tapping of electrical and water supply;
- No religious-related activities; and
- To keep noise level to a minimum (no loud hailers are to be used - applicable from evening onwards - which applies to our context).


We are looking forward to seeing you tomorrow, and enjoy a great time with Jupiter and celestial treats!