Mark your Calendars!
March 07-08, 2008
Temple Bar Messier Marathon
Plan Now For the Annual Messier Marathon
Join us for the astronomical game show of the year, the 2008 Temple Bar Messier Marathon at Temple Bar, AZ. The challenge is to view all 110 Messier Objects in one night, do you have the stamina? Add to that the comradely of the “Midnight Breakfast - now conveniently held just before dark” and you have all the makings of a very fun weekend. Of course there are rooms available to those who choose not to camp, but either way, you’ll have a great time.
DATES: March 07 and 08, 2008
LOCATIONS: Temple Bar Campground, Temple Bar AZ. In the Lake Mead National Recreation Area We will be setting up in the south end of the campground as marked on the map. The National Park Service has granted us special use of this part of the park that is normally closed during the off season, so disregard the “area closed” signs and carry on to our designated sites. (See Directions Below)
COST: $15 per Campsite / Night (Not paid by LVAS. You are responsible for your own camping fees.) “Midnight” breakfast will take place just before dark on Saturday Night, this is a potluck event so please bring a breakfast food and everything necessary to prepare it. This was a great success last year and the perfect way to bring everyone together.
LODGING: For those of you who do not wish to pitch a tent or drive in the camper, there is a small motel located at the marina at Temple Bar. Call 928-767-3211 for reservations and information. Rates will vary with accommodations but be sure to ask for the LV Astronomy Club Group Rate.
DINING: Tired roasting hot dogs and marshmallows over the campfire? There is a restaurant at the marina. It is open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. It closes at 6:00 pm so be prepared to dine early.
EMERGENCIES: In the event of a medical emergency or an accident call (702) 293-8932 or (800) 680-5851
GAS AND GROCERIES: There is a general store with a small selection of necessities, but and plan ahead and bring just about everything you can imagine needing. Be sure that you have enough gas for the return trip before leaving Boulder City. It would probably be best to stop in Boulder City and fill up your tank.
MESSIER MARATHON LINKS: The following websites are great resources for information about Messier Marathons in general. They are not part of the LVAS site and we are not responsible for their content.
DIRECTIONS: It’s about 80 miles from Las Vegas strip to Temple Bar. Go southeast via 515, then 93 through Boulder city and on the Hoover Dam. Continue across the dam down Hwy 93 to CR 143. Turn left and go about 18 miles to Temple Bar. Expect the drive from LV to be between 2 to 2.5 hours depending on the traffic flow across the dam.
Information and planned activities are subject to change. Check back often.