Final Astromeet of 2026 Mount Blackheath

Join Jay Evans for the final Astromeet of the year in the Blue Mountains — a twilight-to-midnight gathering at the spectacular Mount Blackheath Lookout.

As the Galactic Core makes its final descent over the western horizon, Mount Blackheath offers expansive views across the Kanimbla Valley, Shipley Plateau, and the layered ridgelines of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. This elevated vantage point provides an ideal setting to farewell the Milky Way season, with wide western skies and dramatic escarpment silhouettes.

This Astromeet is an opportunity to come together at the close of the astro season — to shoot, share, reflect on the year that was, and talk plans for the next season ahead — all while capturing the night sky as it fades behind distant ranges.

Throughout the evening, Jay will guide the group through practical night-shooting considerations including planning, safety, and working with the Milky Way, before moving into creative techniques such as star trails, panoramas, and timelapses.

Whether this is your first time photographing the night sky or another chapter in your astro journey, this relaxed end-of-season gathering is about learning, experimenting, and shooting alongside a supportive photography community.

🔥 End of Season BBQ

To properly farewell the 2025 Astro season, we’ll kick things off with a casual BBQ at the lookout.

There’s no better way to settle in for the evening than sharing a sausage sizzle cooked on the fire pits near the lookout, enjoying a drink, and watching the sun set as the sky transitions into night.

📍 Why Mount Blackheath Lookout?

• Elevated western-facing views ideal for late-season Milky Way shooting
• Expansive outlook across Kanimbla Valley and surrounding escarpments
• Minimal obstructions and open skies from a safe, accessible location
• Picnic areas and facilities well-suited to a relaxed twilight-to-night gathering

🗓 Event Details

🗓 Date: Saturday 10th October 2026

🕛 Time: 6:30PM – Midnight

🌌 Galactic Core Visible: 6:38PM – 5:27AM

📍 Location: Mount Blackheath Lookout, Blackheath

🚗 Parking: Park within the Mount Blackheath Lookout area. Please ensure access roads and turning loops remain clear.

📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RoGXbZHnnsVCLrq8A

⚠️ Drive with Care - Kangaroos and wombats are frequently active around Shipley Plateau and Mount Blackheath at night. Please drive slowly and remain alert.

🌦 Weather & Conditions

• This Astromeet is weather dependent

• Heavy rain or storm activity may result in cancellation

• In the event of cancellation, vouchers will be issued for future events

• Cloudy skies still allow for creative night shooting and light painting opportunities

🥾 Fitness & Terrain

🔹 Grade 1 – Easy

• Activity remains within the lookout, picnic area, and car park
• Mostly flat terrain with easy access
• A high level of personal awareness is required during night shooting

💡 Why Is There a Fee?

Your booking helps cover essential costs including:

✅ NSW National Parks Entry Fees

✅ NPWS Eco Pass Commercial Licensing

✅ Council / LGA activity permits (where required)

✅ Public Liability Insurance

✅ Accredited guide and event facilitation

✅ Administration, planning, and logistics

🌌 Join Us Under the Stars

Ready to capture the final Milky Way farewell of the season?

From first-time night shooters to seasoned astro photographers, this Mount Blackheath Astromeet offers expansive skies, shared experience, and a fitting close to the 2025 astro year.

📸 Big skies. Shared stories. One last night under the stars.

🔗 Book now — places are limited.

• 📅 Astro Planning - Using mobile apps to assess Milky Way position, timing, and conditions
• 📷 Camera Setup & Workflow - Tripod placement, stability, and remote shooting considerations
• 🌌 Milky Way Nightscapes - Capturing the final Milky Way alignments of the season
• 📷 Focusing in the Dark - Reliable techniques for achieving sharp stars
• ✨ Creative Night Techniques - Star trails, panoramas, long exposures, and timelapse preparation. Managing lens fog and working in cold night conditions

• Headlamp or torch (mandatory)
• DSLR or mirrorless camera
• Wide-angle lens
• Tripod
• Remote shutter release or intervalometer
• Warm layered clothing
• Water and snacks
• Insect Repellant