Star Party Etiquette

A STAR PARTY is scheduled when weather permits and when astronomers are available to set up their telescopes for the public to view night sky objects. Astronomers come from near and far and generously offer this opportunity to the public without charge. Different objects in the night sky appear best in different telescopes. It is a valuable experience to look through telescopes of varying magnitude. Ask questions: it is intended to be an educational experience.

Suggestions to enhance your experience:

* Star Parties are “family” events and children are welcomed. Because it is naturally dark, it is very important to keep your family members near you at all times. The Montauk County Park has a number of ponds which cannot be seen at night. Follow the paths and instructions provided.

* Smoking is prohibited anywhere on the property, as is alcohol, amplified music, and keep in mind that children are in attendance. Keep your pets at home. Dress warmly, even in summer since cool nights can be expected. Bring a thermos with a hot beverage to share.

* Aim flashlights only toward the ground and never outward toward the astronomers or into people’s faces. Night vision takes time to develop and is easily “lost” with bright lights. If you can beforehand, cover the lens of your flashlights with red cellophane or paint with red nail polish to retain night vision. Do not use “flash” cameras without warning everyone at the park to shut their eyes, and with permission.

* Keep in mind that no public bathroom facilities are available at the Park at night.

* When arriving and leaving, drive very slowly and keep car headlights on low and try not to aim your car toward the telescopes. Offer to “carpool” with your friends and neighbors to cut down on traffic.

* Keep a diary of the night sky objects that you see at each Party and the name of the astronomers whom you have met.

* Learn more about the night sky at your local library or on line: www.skyandtelescope.com

* Find out about scheduled Montauk Observatory events: www.montaukobservatory.com

* Montauk County Park has been designated an official “ Dark Sky Park” and will remain a location that will be suitable for astronomical observations into the future.

* East Hampton Town has instituted a “dark sky” policy and all night lighting is required to meet safety and energy conservation criteria. http://www.town.east-hampton.ny.us/