Tianjara is located 47 km south west of Nowra, it is a class two dark sky, and 768 metres above sea level. Tianjara’s only attraction is a large waterfall, a viewing platform is located off the visitors car park. I discovered this platform driving back from Canberra last year and noted it would also favour as an equipment platform .  The greatest drawbacks of Tianjara are its remoteness, there is no mobile reception and if you are by yourself your nerves might spike.

In August I decided to spend two separate nights conducting deep field astrophotography. The first night proved rather difficult as high winds kept moving the tripod and camera setup.  I could only shoot at a focal length of 70mm on the Milky Way rather than the targeted 200mm  at Rho Ophiuchi. Regardless the imaging session proved effective capturing some detailed features of the centre of the milky way.

 

The following week, low winds meant I attempt imaging Rou Ophiuchi at 200mm focal length. I also set up a DSLR for a long exposure star trail. A total of three hours was done before letting the images process overnight back at home.

So will I go back to Tianjara? Most likely.  I consider it an excellent spot for decent dark sky in close proximity to home. I would however plan the trip to ensure it is safe and time efficient. I myself would travel there with at least one other person, pack a large battery to power my instruments and car fridge. Also check the weather. There are frequent high winds which makes it quite difficult especially in winter.