Astronomy Event Etiquette

Etiquette for Star Parties and Other Astronomy Events

Star parties and other astronomy events at dark locations can be safe and enjoyable for everyone if we all follow "star party etiquette". The guidelines detailed below can be summarized as: plan ahead, avoid using bright lights or white lights, and be considerate of others.

1. Arrival:

• Arrive before dark, if possible, to allow time to become familiar with the observing area and set up your equipment.

• If you must arrive after dark, park away from the main observing area so your vehicle’s lights will disturb others as little as possible. Safety is paramount, but if you can safely do so, try to use only your parking lights, not your headlights, near the observing area.

• If possible, back into your parking space upon arrival so you will not activate your vehicle’s backup lights when you leave.

• Before you get out of your vehicle, manually switch off the headlights, disable the interior lights, and put your key fob in a safe place to avoid inadvertently activating your vehicle’s lights.

• You are not required to bring observing equipment, but feel free to bring a telescope or binoculars. If you are a first-timer, someone will probably be willing to help you set up your equipment if you like.

• If you are not bringing your own equipment, park further away from the observing area so others with equipment can park more closely.

• If you plan to leave early, park away from the observing area and close to the exit.

2. Restrictions on White Lights and Bright Lights:

• Do not use a regular flashlight to find your way around after dark. Observing objects in the night sky requires dark-adapted vision and it takes at least 20 to 30 minutes for our eyes to fully adjust. A split-second of white light can undo night-vision adaptation. Once your eyes adapt to the darkness, you should be able to find your way around and avoid obstructions without a flashlight.

• If necessary, use only a dim red light, pointed at your feet.

• A regular flashlight can easily be modified into an astronomy-friendly red light by using a rubber band to attach one of the following over the bulb of the flashlight: red cellophane, red brake-light tape, a small piece of red cloth, or a printed page of solid red paper from an inkjet printer.

• If you will be using a laptop, phone, digital camera, or any other device with a screen, set the screen brightness to the dimmest setting and set the display to night mode. Consider using a screen filter or hood. Cardboard or other light-blocking material can be used to make a screen hood. If your screen is too bright, you may be asked to turn it off or move to another area.

• If you must use your phone for non-astronomy purposes, move a considerable distance away from the observing area, adjust the screen brightness to the dimmest setting, and shield your screen.

• Flash photography is not allowed after observing has started.

• Be especially careful, even with dim red light, near astrophotographers.

• Depending on the purpose of the event, the on-site Event Coordinator may designate separate observing areas, including an area for more casual observing with more tolerance for light, and another observing area with more light restrictions.

• Some events may be designated by the Event Coordinator as being specifically for deep-sky/dark-site observing only, with heightened light restrictions announced in advance.

Exception: In an emergency, use of any necessary light is acceptable. Try to give a verbal warning to those around you before turning on a light.

3. General Safety and Courtesy:

• BAS/BYA assumes no responsibility for injury, damage or loss. Participate at your own risk.

• Alcoholic beverages and all other impairing substances are prohibited.

• Smoking and vaping are prohibited.

• Refrain from loud and boisterous behavior.

• Switch your phone to vibrate mode.

• Music is prohibited.

• Pets are prohibited. Well-controlled service animals specifically trained to aid a person with a disability are permitted.

• Do not use aerosol sprays, including insect repellent, near the observing area.

• No running or playing near the observing area.

• Feel free to bring your own snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, folding chairs and blankets.

• Pick up after yourself.

• Dress appropriately and be prepared for weather that is cooler than expected, even in summer.

• Children are welcome, but they must always be directly supervised by an adult. While we don't want to discourage potential young astronomers, be aware that most children younger than approximately age seven are developmentally unable to observe well through telescopes, resulting in frustration and boredom on their part.

• Ask permission before observing with someone else’s equipment.

• Approach observing equipment carefully. Be aware of tripping hazards such as cables, tripod legs, chairs, tables, etc.

• Observing equipment must be carefully aligned and precisely aimed, so do not touch or adjust observing equipment that does not belong to you. Avoid the temptation to grab the eyepiece and pull it toward your eye, and avoid touching the eyepiece glass.

• Be considerate of others, wait your turn, and allow everyone to participate. Do not monopolize another person’s time or equipment.

• You may need to use one of the provided step-stools to reach the eyepiece of larger scopes. Do not hold on to the observing equipment. Ask for assistance if needed.

• Children should be physically assisted in observing only by their parent/guardian. Children shall not be physically assisted or touched by anyone other than their parent/guardian.

• If you bring your own observing equipment, mark tripod legs, cables, etc., with glow-in-the-dark tape, dim red tripod lights, or something similar, to keep them from being a tripping hazard.

• Keep clutter away from observing equipment. Leave adequate distance between your equipment and your neighbor’s so there is space for people to walk around.

• If you witness someone not adhering to Astronomy Event Etiquette, speak with them about it pleasantly and constructively. If necessary, discuss any inappropriate behavior with the on-site Event Coordinator or a BAS officer.

4. Special Notes about Public Events:

• Remember the primary goal of public astronomy events is to share knowledge of and appreciation for the night sky.

• Public astronomy events are not private observing opportunities.

• At public events, do not expect complete adherence to light restrictions.

• Look forward to answering questions and sharing views through a telescope with a lot of people.

• Consider leaving your most expensive or delicate equipment at home.

• Do not leave your equipment unattended.

5. Observing Tips:

• After observing has started, feel free to go from scope to scope and talk with other observers. However, keep in mind that at members-only events, some observers may want time alone to work on endeavors which require their full attention.

• Allow your eye a few seconds to adjust to the view through the eyepiece. If you can't see anything through the eyepiece or if the view is blurry, tell the equipment operator. Sometimes objects drift out of view or the equipment needs to be adjusted slightly.

• Visit a variety of scopes. Each one can offer a different view even though they may be pointing at the same object.

6. Departure:

• Notify those around you before you depart in your vehicle so others can shield their eyes.

• Try to minimize light from your vehicle. If necessary, ask someone with an astronomy-friendly light to lead you out.

• Drive slowly to minimize dust and be careful if passing by observing equipment on your way out.