Skywatch Parties

Observers on the main field at the Saskatchewan Summer Star Party in the dark sky preserve of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park in late August 2019 in the deep twilight. (Photo by: Alan Dyer/VWPics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

A skywatch party is gathering of local astronomy enthusiasts who typically aim to set up telescopes and specialized cameras for watching the sky, often to capture astronomical events.  While summer in Alaska might seem like the low-point for a skywatch party, due to the long sunlight hours, it doesn’t mean that things cannot be seen.  Skywatch parties may have specific goals to watch for, such as: passing asteroid or comet, meteor shower, constellations, aurora borealis, lunar or solar event, visible satellite constellations (like Starlink), planets, and more.

It’s all about location with these parties.  A good location will be away from the light pollution of city lights, open for people to park and set up, open sky access (no tree coverage), and possibly with a bathroom.

General etiquette does exist for skywatch parties.

1. No bright lights or fires in the viewing area.  There can be a designated area set up for use of lights, such as a screened canopy tent, but set apart from the viewing area.

2. Do not mess with other people’s setups.

3. Most skywatch parties last about 2-hours.  If someone lingers, don’t disturb them with bright lights.

4. Bring your own equipment.

5. Bring your own food and drink.

6. Use the designated bathroom area; don’t just go in random spots.

7. Light discussions are encouraged, as long as they don’t detract from watching the sky.

Skywatch parties are often put on by local astronomy clubs.  If there is no local astronomy club in your area, one can be formed.  Often, after a skywatch party, a meeting will be held by the astronomy club to discuss what was seen, what people would like to try during the next skywatch, what they would like to learn about, etc.

Planning on hosting a skywatch party?

Make sure you have good location, designate a time frame for the event, and have a bathroom area indicated (if its not apparent). Don't forget to bring the following items:

• Telescope or binoculars

• Camp chair

• Small flashlight, to help with set up

• Book light and journal, to make notes on things you see

• Food and drink, if you want them

  
  

Know of a local skywatch party within the state of Alaska? Please let Alaska Space know and we will get it listed under Events.