The 4th Kielder Forest Star Camp enjoyed (and at time endured) a real mixed bag of weather.  Although the rain arrived, it mainly confined itself to daylight hours, leaving the stars visible on no less than four nights. At times transparency was decent, but mist was never far away.  What we would have given for sub-zero temperatures!

Even so, doing the frequent good slots, the Milky Way arched overhead and binoculars enjoyed a revival on the observing ground.  Objects like NGC891 and the Pinwheel strutted their stuff, while the Orionid meteor shower put in a really strong show, with good activity rates and some spectacular trails.

By the weekend, the campsite was packed, making it the best turnout since the event's inception back in 2003. We estimate 200 people attended.

Star Campers enjoyed free talks on Arizona's Meteor Crater, the new Kielder Observatory Project, binocular astronomy and the colourful career of Lord Rosse. 

A walk to the site of Kielder's new observatory (altitude 1,300 feet), where work is set to start shortly, was undertaken by 50 or so brave souls, braving the rain and murk.

Thanks to everyone who attended and to regular star campers, who donned high visibility yellow jackets and helped out with the organisation.

Also a note of gratitude to the following vendors for their support: Rother Valley Optics, Widescreen Centre, Epsilon, Astronomica, Aurora Books, Astronomiser, Ambermile, Astro-Parts and Astrodevelopments.