Some of you haven't been to
many star parties before so we thought it would be good
to go over some of the 'etiquette' that makes you a
welcome guest at any star party. We've borrowed the
guidelines from Rose City Astronomers
rather than try to rewrite them!
When you read these you'll see that they are just common
courtesy, but since many of us don't spend a lot of time
out in truly dark situations you might not have thought
about how some actions could affect others.
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Star Party - Do's and
Don'ts - Check List
click here for
simple, printable version of check list
Most amateur observers
really like sharing their telescopes with anyone who
happens along. They are sensitive creatures, though, and
react very strongly to the presence of even small amounts
of white light. So...
* Park
away from the viewing field if you arrive after dark or
expect to leave before dawn. Remember, your vehicle
back-up lights are bright white. A good idea is to back
your vehicle in at the start of the evening so that when
you leave, you can pull straight out rather than having
to back up.
* If
you park near the viewing field, either disconnect the overhead light in your vehicle or cover it with red tape.
Also be careful that your vehicle does not block the view
of a nearby observer.
* Each
person should have a red flashlight for use at the site.
It is easy to modify a regular flashlight by covering the
lens with a red filter. Red construction paper, red
fabric, red cellophane (thick layers), or red tail-light
repair tape works great to make filters.
* Bring
your kids. Many kids get cold and tired early, so you may
want to bring a sleeping bag for them.
* Bring
warm clothes Even on a warm summer night, you will be
more comfortable wearing a warm jacket and long pants.
* Bring
warm drinks and food.
* It's
better to leave your dog at home, or at least keep it on
a leash.
* If
you want to listen to music, either keep the volume down
or check with the folks near you to see if they share
your taste. Some people's idea of space music is silence.
* Bring
your binoculars. It's amazing how much you can see with
them if you know where to look.
* Bring
a folding chair of chaise lounge. It's nice to sit under
the stars, listening the quiet sound of voices in the
night.
* If
you set up a telescope, be sure to put it several yards
away from your closest neighbor. Many people need room
for star chart tables, chairs, power supplies, cables...
and especially for long lines at the eyepiece.
*
Astrophotography/CCD imaging is an increasingly popular
hobby of club members, and many will set up their
equipment at star parties. If you are planning on taking
pictures, let those around you know that you have a
camera set up so they can be careful about their red
lights.
* On
the other hand, be sure to check around you before
flashing your red lights, opening car doors, or using any
running lights on your car when leaving so you don't
inadvertently ruin someone's once-in-a-lifetime 45-minute
exposure at the 42-minute mark!
Thank you!
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