Star Party - Do's and Don'ts - Check List
                      *****************
                     (Star Party Etiquette)

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!