SE Newsletter March 1999

Eclipse plans for 99

From: B Yen byen@ix.netcom.com To: Multiple recipients of list eclipse@hydra.carleton.ca Subject: eclipse plans for '99 Date: Monday, February 22, 1999 5:00

Hi, I am planning for '99 eclipse (late as usual, bogged with work). My 3 main requirements are:

- Location (clear skies)

- Location (clear skies),

- Location (clear skies).

I would also like to find a scenic site out in the boonies (away from civilization), so I can get wide-angle shots against a nice foreground/background. However, this latter constraint may be "relaxed" due to various stuff I've heard in some countries (Re: security being by myself with lots of $$ equipment). I managed to pull off my previuos eclipses ('91, '92, '94, '97, '98) by being by myself in the deserts.

http://www.comet-track.com/eclipse/secl.html

(The '98 was risky, since someone offerred me a cell-phone & rifle, in case drug-dropoff activity at night on the Caribbean island might have been "problematic". My local contacts all were concerned about my "extremism". But, I had a good time & got some nice results. Whew)

I was careful in making sure I didn't get into trouble, but I think maybe for '99 I should attach myself to a scientific expedition (be around a group for safety). Anyone know of any groups? I already know some people, so maybe I can "complement" their program. Or, maybe some of the observatories along the eclipse path. I am not interested in these eclipse tours. Maybe just a small group of hard-core eclipse chasers. Best thing is on my own, with a reliable local contact, & hookup with a scientific-expedition.

I will travel with 2 large cases (check in), & carryons. I believe in carrying as much as I can (vs being as less as one can, i.e. portable). I don't mind the "hassle", since tourism is not a priority for me. I am looking for some GOOD,RELIABLE local contacts in some countries (to assist me in my project).

What is the situation for Turkey? Recently, there was that Turkish rebel leader which got "turned in" by the Greek govt (?), which resulted in some heated reaction/demonstration in Europe. A former Turkish resident told me NOT to run around SE Turkey (revolutionary activity) by myself, that is surely asking for trouble. Out in the boonies in Romania is also not advised (bandits running around). Someone told me Iraq is upset with Turkey, for allowing US aircraft to fly from bases (unconfirmed), so ... What is the latest on the political situation, & its impact on travel to Turkey? My sister was there many yrs ago, & had a good time. One of my old grad student officemates is from there, so I suppose I could get a good contact to be a reliable host. BY