Observing

Our outdoor observing sessions are referred to as "Star Parties," but there's always more "star" than "party" involved.  These are great experiences for novices and veterans alike. 

If you're going to attend one, there are some precautions you should know to maximize the experience for everyone.

• It'll be dark. Very dark. Eyes can take ten minutes or longer to become accustomed to the low light. Step carefully and watch out for curbs, tripod legs, and other people moving about in the dark.

• Know where you're going.  If traveling alone, let someone know where you'll be going.  Download and print a map for our venues HERE.

• Check the weather outlook. Clear, Dark Sky has several good links. If you are registered to attend, you'll get any last minute updates by email.

• Dress for cool weather. Even a warm day can turn chilly at night, especially out in the open desert where radiative cooling is enhanced by the clear skies we cherish.

• Don't wear sandals or other open footwear. There are critters in the desert that don't like being stepped upon.

• Bring a source of light, preferably RED light. Red plastic taped over a regular flashlight works fine.  Red light preserves night vision. (It can take 20 minutes to recover your night vision after a flash of bright white light.)

• Bring food and water for nourishment, but don't handle any astronomical equipment with greasy or sticky fingers.

• Bring a chair, cushion, sleeping bag, or whatever works best for you.  You will be staying up later than usual at these type of events.

• Arrive early and well before sunset to provide time for setting up your equipment. It's tough finding level ground in the dark, and you don't want to find out later that you set up your scope on a fire ant mound (this has happened!).

• If you must arrive after sunset, use your low-beam headlights near the observing area (or better yet a flashlight) when arriving and leaving in your car. Turn off your dome light, and avoid turning on your headlights while pointed at observers. Drive slowly near the observing site. (Dust is bad for telescopes.)

• Everyone is happy to share their celestial views. Just walk up to any telescope and ask the person in charge. (If there is a line, please respect other viewers.)

• If you bring young children, please control them. Rambunctious behavior is hazardous to all, and electrical cords, tripods, and portable tables with expensive equipment are hard to see in the dark.