If you like to gaze into the sky at night but have no idea what you’re looking at, then you need to head to the next star party.

A star party is a time when local astronomers, both amateur and professional, travel to a dark location far away from city lights and view the night sky.

You don’t need to bring anything to come, but if you do have a telescope or a pair of binoculars, we encourage you to share with the group.

Upcoming Events Adventure Science Center and the Barnard-Seyfert Astronomical Society Star Party

Location: Ridgefield at Edwin Warner Park
When: Saturday, April 12, 2008
How: Free and open to the public

Helpful Hints

If you ’ve never been to a star party before, here’s what you should know!

1. If the skies are cloudy, or if it’s raining, the star party will be cancelled. If you’re not sure, call Sudekum Planetarium's Astroline at 615-401-5092 to confirm if the party’s been canceled. Announcements may also be made on our home page.
2. Download and print out a copy of Sudekum Planetarium's monthly star chart to bring with you. Copies are also available at the Planetarium.
3. Using red cellophane or cloth, make a red flashlight so you can see your star chart without ruining your night vision. Cover the light with the red material and make sure only red light comes from the flashlight.
4. Upon arrival to the star party location, please turn off your car headlights as soon as you can safely do so.
5. Be sure to dress in warm clothes for the winter! Since stargazing isn't a very physical activity, you won't be moving around very much. You may get cold sooner than you think!
6. If you need to use bug spray or insect repellant, please apply it away from the telescopes. The chemicals can damage telescope optics on contact.
7. If you're interested in buying a telescope, but don't know what to look for, star parties are the perfect place to try out many different kinds of telescopes, and ask questions to the people who own them.