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Packing for a Star Party
By Warren Bracewell
I haven't been to many star parties and am in no way an expert on what to bring. I joined BVAC in October, and it is the first astronomy club that I have belonged to. I have owned my 10" Dobsonian scope for over 25 years, but have always struggled with viewing when living in the Houston area. Most of my viewing existed in taking my scope camping or to the dear lease. There, I was always assured a warm bed to crawl in when I got tired or the weather turned. The only time I have done a multi-night star party was at a Texas Star Party about 12 years ago. I stayed in a tent for that one, and trying to sleep in the heat of the day was brutal. I made bunkhouse arrangements for this year's party and will see how that works out. Anyway, back to the list.
- Of course, number one is the scope. I have a 10" F5 Z-Scope. When I purchased it, it came with a Telrad and three lenses, a 7.4 mm, a 10.5 mm, and a 26 mm.
- I added an 8X50 spotting scope to the telescope to help with star hopping and a solar filter.
- I bought a pistol case and cut out the foam to fit my accessories into. I made room for the Telrad and the spotting scope in the case. I have added a 2X Barlow and a 45 degree diagonal. I also keep my red LED lights and lens cleaning supplies in the case.
- Some of the other items that I bring are an adjustable chair, a notebook and pen, a folding charts table, my star charts, Astro cards, my 10X50 binoculars, a pair of 7X50 binoculars, and another reclining chair that I can use with the binoculars and a hand truck for hauling the scope around.
- I bought a large tote on wheels a few years ago and that gives me something to put everything in to make sure I don't forget anything. It also fits nicely in the back of my truck and is weather proof and lockable. This case also contains rain gear, a weather proof cover for the scope, my books and charts, rain gear (just in case), and a few tools.
Warren Bracewell participated in the BVAC Messier Marathon.
- Recently, with using computers, cell phones, and IPads, I started taking a small lead-acid battery with connections to power up and charge these devices. I put it in a small bucket for ease of transport and it seems to last forever.
- The only other thing I could add would be items for overnight or multi-night viewing. I would bring the normal gear one would take camping: clothes, toiletries, sleeping bag, pillow, etc.
Like I said before, I am no expert and would greatly welcome any advice from members who have done this many times. Thanks for reading and I look forward to hearing from you.
Download Warren's packing list and modify it for your personal checklist when you are packing for your star party.
