September 2019 St. Johns School Star Party

Star Party at St. John’s School Sept. 6, 2019

What: Star party for grade-school-age students at St. John’s School

Who: Students, their parents and BAS/BYA members

Where: St. John’s School playground, 8^th and Keeler in Bartlesville

When: Sept. 6, 2019, 9 pm-11:30 pm

Who coordinated: Rick Buck coordinated with the school to have this event. Had been scheduled for August 23 but cancelled due to weather. He arranged to get the keys to the playing ground fence.

Publicity used: From the Club side, announced originally at the August BAS meeting and again at the September meeting. For the school, Rick Buck made up an excellent flyer, which two teachers at the school made copies of for the students to take home. (This was done for the August 23 date, and the school handled the rescheduling publicity.)

Number of people who attended: Estimate about 35 people--12 BAS/BYA members and their families, 3 St. John’s teachers/administrators at least, about 15 youth plus several parents and friends of teachers. More guests than BAS/BYA members!

Number telescopes used: 6, with astrophotography. Also binoculars on tripod.

Other materials brought: Rick Buck brought his folding table and his two nice red lanterns, BAS banner, and our event handouts bin and small supply bin. He also brought his 3-step folding stool with hand rails. We had several small red lights around that people brought to mark telescope and binocular locations—this was very helpful! People also brought lawn chairs.

Materials of location site used: Keys to the playground

BAS expenditures: We made more copies of our various handouts.

What we observed: Moon, Jupiter with four moons, Saturn, Neptune

Comments: Great weather! The playground was surprisingly dark given the downtown location; it felt somewhat secluded. We also appreciated having the Sonic nearby! The Club should buy a 2-step folding stool with hand rails. Everyone who brings equipment should bring a small red light to mark where they are!