The Astronomy Society group at Pierce College went to the bi-annual camping trip at McGrath State Beach in Oxnard from Oct. 3 to Oct. 5.
Debbie Testa, the Astronomy Society camping director, has been taking students on camping trips every semester for the past four years.
The main purpose of the trip was the nighttime viewing of planets and stars through telescopes.
Friday night’s viewing was canceled due to rain, but the weather cleared Saturday and the students were able to use their telescopes and observe the heavens.
“We really lucked out,” Testa said. “Even though it was raining Friday, we made the best of it.”
According to Testa, the best part of the camping trip is the camaraderie among the group and the chance to be around other people who appreciate astronomy.
The group gathers around the campfire before dinner to unwind after a day of hiking. ()
Astronomy society camping director Debbie Testa climbs a drift wood structure found on the beach during a day hike. ()