You may have questions relating to what might be expected of you while attending one of our star parties.
For new and regular attendees to our star gazing events here are a few tips to help you out while
enjoying the views through many of our member operated telescopes.
Astronomers like the dark. We need it to see the stars. This means that many of the habits we are used to in our light-washed way of life
require adjustment at star parties.
Did you know that it can take upwards of twenty minutes for your eyes to become "dark-adapted" when you move from a bright place to a dark
one? Yet our eyes adjust much more quickly to sudden light: the pupil contracts swiftly to protect the retina.
As a result, even small amounts of light can create big problems when we are observing the night sky. You will notice at star parties that
astronomers do not use white light. Red flashlights are generally used when we need to check instruments or charts. The easiest way to get a
red light is to tape red cellophane over the front of an ordinary flashlight.
If you drive in early, in time for the lecture, headlights are not an issue. If you arrive after dark, try to park farther away from the
telescope activity. You may notice that some cars crawl in with only their parking lights on. This is done (carefully!) as a courtesy to
those who are observing.
While, to be sure, astronomers love talking about the objects they are showing in their telescopes, they may
not have time for lengthy conversations if several people are in line for the scope. Be aware of their need to help other folks get the
most out of their viewing. In particular, be careful around the equipment. Walk, do not run, from scope to scope, and do not touch any
telescope without permission. Respect the astronomers' equipment and remember that some of the telescopes can be bumped off target by a
gentle nudge from the brim of a baseball cap!
