Climate and clothes
The namibian winter (May to September) is characterised by extreme differences between daytime and night-time temperatures. Temperatures may exceed 25 degrees centigrade by day and yet fall below zero at night.

Sun and humidity
The cloudless skies and low humidity (20-30%) so ideal for astronomy are also highly conducive to sunburn, dehydration and the shivers. Sun-cream, lip balm, T-shirts and shorts should be snuggling up against the woolly hat, sweatshirts and padded jacket in your luggage. None of this need worry the European astronomer - just be prepared to dress as you would for winter at home.

Checklist

• fleece sweater
• down jacket
• warm, long legged underwear
• hiking shoes
• liners
• knitted cap
• t-shirt
• sun shade
• sunglasses
• sunscreen
• lip balm
• moisturizer for your skin
• rich cream for your hands