Star Party Etiquette, Safety and More

Star Party Etiquette

Star parties are fairly informal, but there are a few things we ask to make sure everyone has a fun and safe time. These guidelines are respected not only by ASET, but also by the majority of astronomy groups nationwide.

• Use red flashlights, and set screens and phones to their darkest setting. Don't shine bright, white lights during the star party. Phone flashlights, brightly lit screens, and car headlights can disrupt people's acclimation to the dark, affecting their view of the stars. Bright enough lights can even be painful to look at after several minutes in darkness. 

• When waiting to use a telescope, form a line. Avoid forming a crowd around a telescope.

• When using a telescope, make sure you only touch with permission from the owner. Avoid leaning on telescopes because they are not strong and will fall over (often with you!). 

• Ask questions! Astronomers love talking about space and will be happy to answer your questions. 

Astronomy Safety 

• Wear weather-appropriate clothing in layers. At night, temperatures can quickly drop. Additionally, sitting still while looking through a telescope can reduce body temperature even further. Likewise, during the summer, temperatures at night can remain in the 90s. 

• Never drive tired. If you feel yourself falling asleep at the wheel, pull over and take a nap. 

• Be aware of wildlife. 

  • Snakes like to be on warm pavement at night. 

  • Wasps and ants like to be near observatory structures. If nobody has been to an observatory in a while, bring wasp spray. 

  • Mosquitos like to come out at dusk, so insect repellent is wise. 

  • Don't try to interact with wildlife; even though armadillos are cute they should be left alone. 

• Wear close-toed shoes, and avoid running in the dark. Tripping and falling hurts, and can damage equipment. Watch your step when crossing cables and wires. 

• Bring a friend when observing somewhere remote. 

• Take plenty of water while observing. On hot nights, dehydration will make you more tired than you already are. 

• Keep an eye on weather conditions. Check the forecast before leaving, and if it looks like a storm is about to happen, don't try to do astronomy. 

• Be careful to not look deer-shaped during hunting season. Wearing brightly colored clothing can help identify you as human to hunters. Avoid wearing camouflage or dark colors.

• Always pack out what you pack in. Don't leave trash at your observing site. 

• Avoid alcohol for several reasons:

  • Alcohol reduces your visual response to dim light, making it harder to see things.

  • Alcohol makes it harder to drive. 

  • Alcohol reduces your body temperature.

  • Alcohol is not permitted at ASET star parties.

• Be aware of your dust and aerosols.

  • Cars create clouds of dust in dry conditions; drive slow if that is a risk.

  • Avoid spraying insect repellent near telescopes. 

  • Don't smoke near the telescopes; smoke clouds mirrors and lenses.