Coonabarrabran, Siding Springs Observatory and Warrumbungles

Keeping to the theme of astronomy, we have made our way to Coonabarrabran. The motelier in Dubbo advised us of an alternate route, which we adopted and found the road to be almost deserted for the entire 140km trip.

The Sidings Springs Observatory, about 25km east of "Coona" is the home to about 10 astronomical instruments, the largest of which is the 4 metre reflecting Anglo Australian Telescope.

Another perfectly clear day, 20 deg C. Not a cloud in sight.

We had lunch in the cafe and then took the opportunity to inspect the telescope from the 4th floor "Visitors Gallery". The device was not in use at the time of the visit, since it was day time. The telescope is huge!

The observatory is set in the spectacular surrounds of the Warrumbungle National Park.

Some flowers that  Karen found.

There was quite a lichen problem on the bench.

 Karens purple flower fettish continues.

Some of the rock formations of the range.

The bizzare "Bread Knife" formation was apparently formed as a result molten volcanic rock having been forced through a fisure in a softer rock, and the soft rock having been eroded away over the millenia.

The flower fettish is not only for purple ones

Leaving the park and an glimpse back toward the Siding Springs Observatory in the fading light.