This article is based on the “Star Party Preparation and Etiquette” post on Cloudy Nights by DAS Member and Trustee, Joe Gafford.

What’s a Star Party?

A star party is a gathering of astronomy enthusiasts who come together to observe the night sky, share knowledge, and enjoy celestial sights through telescopes and binoculars. These events are attended by a mix of amateur and professional astronomers, astrophotographers, and casual stargazers of all experience levels. The larger regional star parties take place in remote dark-sky locations or national parks. Activities often include guided stargazing sessions, telescope viewing, astrophotography workshops, and educational presentations. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a newcomer, star parties provide an incredible opportunity to learn, observe, and connect with others who share a passion for the night sky. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all, it’s important to follow proper etiquette, safety guidelines, and preparation tips. This guide covers the key aspects of attending a star party, from what to bring to how to navigate the event respectfully.

Star Party Etiquette

Dark Sky Courtesy

• Follow dark sky etiquette when the skies are clear. Use only red lights and keep them dim.
• In overcast conditions or during storms, white lights may be permissible, but be mindful of neighbors who may be resting.
• If you need to leave in an emergency at night, notify nearby attendees and event organizers so they can help guide you off the site safely.
• Use caution with headlamps, as they move with your head and can easily blind others. When adjusting gear, ensure your light is directed away from fellow observers.

Respecting Other Observers

• Feel free to explore and observe through others’ telescopes, but always ask before looking through an eyepiece.
• During the day, take advantage of solar observing opportunities.
• If a telescope is unattended and has blinking lights, it likely belongs to an astrophotographer—avoid touching it.
• Some attendees are working through observation lists for awards; be respectful of their focus and observing time.

Managing Light Pollution

• Astrophotographers: Be mindful of bright screens, even with red filters. Consider using a laptop shroud or a portable dome to minimize light leakage.
• Cover or dim bright LED lights on power supplies and other equipment using black or red tape.
• Keep all flashlight beams pointed downward. Turn off headlamps when not actively using them.
• Ensure your vehicle’s interior and exterior lights are off when opening doors. Check your vehicle’s manual or research online how to disable these lights.

Safety Guidelines

• Familiarize yourself with the specific safety rules of the star party you’re attending.
• Be aware of wildlife, especially at remote locations. Secure food properly and keep pets leashed.
• Respect property boundaries—many star parties take place near private land.
• Arrive before sunset whenever possible. Most events do not allow vehicle movement at night to protect the observing experience.

Preparing for a Star Party

General Preparation

• Bring appropriate camping gear: sleeping bags, tents, warm clothing for chilly nights, portable tables, and chairs.
• Pack enough food and water for the duration of the event. Store food securely at night.
• Cooking: Only use Coleman-style stoves during daylight hours. Open flames, charcoal grills, and gas-powered grills are generally prohibited.
• Use only red lights at night. Avoid bright red headlamps or unshielded laptop screens, as these can still be disruptive.
• Pets: Check the event rules, as some sites have restrictions.
• Vehicle Light Management: Test at home how your vehicle’s lights behave when doors are opened. Some cars may require fuse removal or red gels over interior lights.
• Generators: Use only during designated hours (typically from late morning until dusk).

Weather Considerations

• Check the weather forecast before departing and prepare for sudden changes in conditions.
• Bring layered clothing, including warm jackets, gloves, and hats for chilly nights.
• If rain is expected, pack waterproof covers for your telescope, camera equipment, and other electronics.
• Wind can be a factor at some locations—bring tent stakes and extra weights to secure your setup.
• High-altitude locations may have thinner air and cooler temperatures, so be prepared for these conditions.
• Be mindful of extreme heat in summer events—bring extra water and sun protection, such as hats and sunscreen.

RV-Specific Considerations

• Block windows to prevent interior light from spilling out.
• Use red battery-powered lights inside the RV.
• Park in designated RV areas or along the edges of observing fields to avoid obstructing views.

Notable Star Parties

Keep Looking Up!

Attending a star party is an incredible experience, but being prepared and following proper etiquette ensures an enjoyable event for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned astronomer, understanding the dos and don’ts will help you make the most of your time under the stars. So pack your gear, dim your lights, and get ready to enjoy some of the best skies astronomy has to offer!

Clear skies and happy star-partying!