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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!
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