Tips for Attending a Star Party
·For ASTRA members, you do not need a telescope for attending a star party. Take this time to look up and learn about the night sky. Walk around and view through various telescopes of different styles. This will help you to decide what telescope may be best for you. Remember you can always use the loaner program before you decide.
Do not feel intimidated about going to a star party, even if you are unsure of yourself. Our members are a friendly bunch of people who are passionate about what they do and will share their knowledge. But try to not monopolize their time either, give them time to observe as well.
White flashlights are not permitted during private and public star parties. A white light will disrupt night vision and it will take time up, to twenty minutes, to restore. It is recommended to use red flashlights keeping them on low settings.
Car lights should be disabled. However, when driving into an unknown area it is best to at least use parking lights for safety reasons. When parking, most of the newer models can disable lights. If not, please refrain from opening car doors and trunks while observing. If someone in your party stays in the vehicle, the no white light rule pertains to them as well.
·Because of park rules, smoking/vaping and alcohol are not permitted. If caught it can cause us to lose our observing permit and to be banned from the park. This also means no walking away from the group to smoke, vape, or use alcohol.
·Dress comfortably, and have a sweater or jacket on hand for the cool night air.
Bring bug spray to use. We are at the mercy of mosquitoes and green flies. When applying do not spray near the telescopes and try to do it downwind from other members.
Always check for ticks when you get home.
It is not recommended to bring food. The foxes and raccoons are very brave. They will come right up to you looking for handouts, which is not permitted. They will also enter your vehicle to get to it if left unattended.
Have some water on hand if needed, but be aware bathrooms may not be available.
To find your way around the night sky, have sky maps or atlases with you along with a red flashlight. You can also use one of the many cell apps but make sure the app is red-screen ready.
Bringing your own chair for sitting is recommended. It is good to rest and sometimes just chat with other members waiting for the sky to clear or after setting up waiting for it to get dark.
Bring a small step ladder if you need one to reach your taller telescope’s eyepieces. Most members who own taller telescopes bring stepstools for people to use. It is recommended to have one with handles to hold on to. You do not want anyone using your telescope for balancing themselves.
During private sessions at Island Beach State Park, Astro-photographers and widefield imaging setups should be set up on the right side after pulling into the lot and observer setup on the left side. This will reduce the chances of disruption during imaging.