Weather & Climate Expectations at OzSky "Classic"

Historical Climate Data for the OzSky "Classic" Observing Site

The official source of weather & climatic data in Australia is the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM). Most of the useful data and statistics for the local region can be found at the following links to the nearest local BoM weather stations at:

• Showgrounds - Historical data (1879+)
• Airport - Recent data only (2001+)

If you can forecast how many clear or cloudy nights there are going to be, you're doing well, however historically speaking, we usually to get 5 to 6 clear nights out of 7 during most OzSky "Classic" Star Safaris.

Some years we have had a straight run of 7 clear nights in a row, resulting in a serious medical condition known as "Photon Fatigue", often found to be associated with extreme cases of "Aperture Fever" where even the hardiest of hard-core observers find themselves heading to bed quite early towards the end of the week, despite 10/10 observing conditions.

Your mileage may vary, so to speak, but don't be surprised if you also have serious a case of photon fatigue by the end of the week! A glass or two of a good Australian Shiraz or Traditional Mead is rumoured to assist in many cases!

Other Useful Weather Resources

Here are a few other weather resources which we frequently use which may offer additional insight into your weather expectations (in no particular order):

• Weather Forecasts
  • Cloud Free Night (click: Map > Region > NSW)
  • OzForecast - Coonabarabran
    
  • yr.no Forecast - Coonabarabran
    
  • SkippySky Astro Weather Forecast
    
  • MetCheck Astronomy Weather Forecast
    
  • 7-Timer Astro Forecast - Coonabarabran
    
  • Clear Sky Chart (equivalent) - Coonabarabran
    
  • Weather Underground Forecast - Coonabarabran
    
  • MeteoBlue Astronomy Seeing Conditions - Coonabarabran
    
  • MeteoBlue Astronomy Forecast (Coonabarabran)

• Current Conditions
  • WX Maps (Australia-wide)
  • Weather Underground Current Conditions - Coonabarabran
    

• Historical and Statistical Climate Data
  • Mean Solar Exposure - Coonabarabran Showground (BoM)
  • Mean Solar Exposure - Barina (BoM)
  • Monthly Climate Statistics - Coonabarabran Airport (Recent data only from 2001+)
    
  • Monthly Climate Statistics - Coonabarabran Showground (More historical data from 1879+)
    

What to Wear at OzSky "Classic"

Cooler temperatures will have started to creep in by April, so you'll certainly want to pack some extra items of clothing that you can layer together – and some polar fleece or similar for night-time observing.

Temperatures at Coonabarabran in March / April usually fall in the 7 - 24°C (45° - 75°F) range, however it has been known to drop as low as -3°C (26°F) overnight on rare occasions, so be sure to pack enough cold-weather gear to keep you toasty warm under the southern Milky Way as well as some warm-weather gear too.

There is a local store in Coonabarabran where you can buy an inexpensive pair of wool- or fleece-lined boots known as "Ugg Boots" if you want to wait to purchase these on arrival. Woollen hats or beanies and gloves are also essential on chilly nights, so don’t forget to pack yours.

And remember to pack suitable daytime clothing, including some good closed-toe shoes (required for some of the optional daytime tours you might take).

Of course, given the recent warmer-than average temperatures we've been experiencing across the globe, I guess no-one can accurately forecast what the climate will do in April, but hopefully the above information will provide at least a guide to what has happened historically.

As with any astronomical observing trip, I strongly suggest packing lots of warm clothes for observing as well as suitable clothing for daytime activities.

Spread the Word about OzSky

Please remember, these OzSky Star Safaris are enhanced by the group of wonderful folks who are present at each event.

If you have any experienced friends or colleagues who might be interested in joining us at the 2027 OzSky "Classic" Star Safari (or a future OzSky event), please let them know about this unique observing opportunity.

Previous Editions:
Overview, Trip Planning, Bookings & Logistics
Observing Expectations at OzSky "Classic"
"Eye Candy" and Suggested Observing List Resources

Next Edition: