Cherry Springs State Park

Dark Sky Observing Recommendations

A group of 15 amateur astronomers that regularly use Cherry Springs State Park for observing, astrophotography and CCD astro-imaging on New Moon weekends, had a discussion of dark sky protocol and etiquette polices that would address concerns specific to New Moon weekend observing at the park. The group reached consensus on the following:

Concerns:

• Loss of dark adaptation from ambient light sources such as vehicle lights.

Dark adaptation of the human eye for low light sensitivity can take as long as one hour to recompose completely. Night sky observers need to be protected from light sources to avoid loss of dark adaptation.

· Astrophotography and CCD astro-imaging can be ruined by errant ambient light sources.

Astrophotography may require exposures of over one hour in length, and along with CCD imaging, can be spoiled by any instance of bright light during the period of exposure.

Recommendations:

All visitors to the park at night during Dark Sky Periods (defined below), should be subject to the same rules. We are proposing that the attached Dark Sky Protocol and Dark Sky Etiquette guidelines be followed. No headlights or other white light sources should be allowed to be directed onto the observing fields designated as the Dark Sky Area. Vehicles should be directed to an appropriate parking area that will not interfere with the observing fields upon ingress or egress. Signs should be posted to instruct nighttime visitors where to park and where to assemble for public observing sessions, along with warnings about directing light from headlights onto the observing fields. Dark Sky observing etiquette needs to be taught to any novice group that will be going near telescopes that are set up for public observing. There should be a special area designated as the Deep Sky Area on the observing field to be used for astrophotography and CCD astro-imaging, since these activities can be severely affected by any ambient light or local vibrations. Smoking restrictions would apply in this area. Telescope users who do not want public access to their personal equipment could also set up in a designated section of this area, and would be required to adhere to restrictions needed to protect the work of astrophotographers and CCD astro-imagers. It is recommended that the most isolated section of the observing field, the upper Southwest section, be used for this purpose.

Telescope observers that locate outside of the Deep Sky Area would do so as an indication that they may be approached by visitors to the park’s Dark Sky Area.

It is recommended that an area near the entrance of the park be designated for the initial instruction of nighttime visitors on public education nights. Such initial instruction should cover dark sky park rules and observing courtesy (etiquette) with an explanation of why the rules are required.

An area should also be designated for those wishing to directly assist with the public educational program. A public viewing area in the field near the pavilion is recommended which has close access to the parking area and restrooms. Red film for shielding flashlights should be provided. Members of the public could later be escorted on foot to the main observing area (Dark Sky Area), where observers willing to share views through their personal telescopes, would allow the public to observe. A specific time should be set for the end of the public observing session, so that astrophotographers and CCD astro-imagers could coordinate the end of their image to coincide with departure times when vehicle lights present a problem. Public educational sessions should be scheduled so that vehicles arrive before dark with consideration given to the vehicle orientation when it comes time to depart. A sign should be posted that directs late arrivers where to park along with a list of do’s and don’ts. Laser lights of any color or other illumination into the night sky should be strictly forbidden.

It is recommended that consideration be given to the scheduling of public educational sessions on weekends before the last quarter Moon. An example is Saturday, June 29, 2002, when skies are dark and Moon-free until midnight, allowing ample deep sky observing time for the general public.

The recommended Dark Sky Protocol and Dark Sky Etiquette guidelines as compiled from other dark sky observing rules are as follows:

NOTE: THIS IS NOT AN OFFICIAL DOCUMENT

DRAFT

Cherry Springs State Park - Dark Sky Protocol

Background:
In order to allow the maximum benefit of this dark sky observing site, it is necessary for all users to take steps to eliminate unnecessary light. Adaptation for best night vision is a gradual process that requires from approximately 20 minutes to nearly an hour for some people. The majority of individuals don't reach their best night vision for about 30 minutes.

Unfortunately, dark adaptation is easily lost with exposure to any level of white light. Each event of exposure to white light (or bright light of any color) will restart the period of dark adaptation. Small amounts of red light may be tolerated without significantly degrading vision provided that the light source is not bright and does not shine into the eyes.

Special considerations are required to protect the activities of astrophotographers and CCD imagers from ambient light and vibrations. Long exposure film photography and CCD images can be ruined by even momentary occurrences of light in the field being captured. A separate area for these activities will be conducted in an area known as the Deep Sky Area.

Area of Control:
The area controlled by the Dark Sky Protocol will be known as the Dark Sky Area. The Dark Sky Area is defined as all observing fields designated by Cherry Springs State Park. Within the Dark Sky Area there is a section designated as the Deep Sky Area for the purpose of deep sky observing, astrophotography and CCD astro-imaging. All requirements of the Dark Sky Area also apply to the Deep Sky Area.

Persons/Entities Affected:
All persons present in the Dark Sky Area during nighttime hours are bound by the Dark Sky Protocol, including park employees, contractors, and visitors.

Periods of Dark Sky Area Control:
This time shall be called the Dark Sky Period. Every night, when 10% or more of the sky is not overcast and at least one observer is present, shall require adherence to the Dark Sky Protocol. The Dark Sky Period extends from the end of nautical twilight through the start of nautical twilight the following morning.

If it is raining, the Dark Sky Area Protocol will be lifted.

If it is more than 90% cloudy but with the potential for clearing, all persons in the Dark Sky Area shall be asked to voluntarily comply with the Dark Sky Protocol to minimize dark adaptation time when conditions permit observing.

During a medical emergency or other bona fide emergency situation, the Dark Sky Protocol will be lifted to ensure safety and prompt appropriate response to the emergency.

Dark Sky Rules:
The rules in this section shall apply in the Dark Sky Area during the Dark Sky Period. All white lights shall remain extinguished. All bright lights of any color shall remain extinguished. No light of any kind shall be emitted from vehicles except for amber parking lights and red brake lights. Parking lights and brake lights are permitted only while the vehicle is in motion. Vehicle lights specifically prohibited are headlights, daytime running lights, fog lights, search lights, backup lights, dome and trunk lights, and entry and courtesy lights. Vehicles shall be parked such that the reverse gear (backup lights) will not be needed upon entry or exit. Only red lights of minimal brightness may be used in the Dark Sky Area. Lights shall be directed downward at all times. Laser lights of any color shall not be directed into the night sky at any time. Lighting for charts or accessories must be by red light and shielded and confined only to the target area. Computers of any kind must be shielded with red foil or confined, to eliminate all light visibility beyond the actual user.

Campfires, cookstoves, lanterns, and other devices with open flames are prohibited.

Trailers, tents, RV's and other equipment must not emit any non-red or bright light visible from the outside.

No vehicle may be moved to or from the section designated as the Deep Sky Area during the Dark Sky Period. Special safeguards should be taken in the Deep Sky Area to minimize all sources of ambient light that may effect long exposure photography and CCD imaging; including reading lights, display screens and from smoking.

Cherry Springs State Park - Dark Sky Etiquette

Etiquette is not something that we are born knowing - it is something that has to be learned. To ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience, these simple guidelines should be followed:  

White Light: Don't use white lights. Use red lights sparingly. White light ruins the dark adaptation that your eyes develop after about 20 or 30 minutes in the dark. You will need this dark adaptation to see faint deep sky objects. When a white light is used after dark anywhere in the vicinity of the observing field (flashlights, car headlights, even a match) it may take up to one hour to regain night vision. Once your eyes adapt to the darkness, you will be able to find your way around and avoid obstructions without needing to use flashlight. The best solution is to use a red filter or lens on flashlights or to buy special red LED lights. However, it is very simple to adapt a regular white flashlight to make it friendly to your eyes. All you need to do is cover it with anything red. Applying several coats of red fingernail polish to the flashlight lens is an inexpensive way to make a permanent astronomy light. Temporary astronomy lights can be made by covering a regular flashlight with a thick layer of nonflammable red paper or red plastic and securing with a rubber band. Red brake-light tape can also be used. If for some reason you absolutely can not avoid turning on a white light, call out "White Light!" to warn the astronomers. 

Vehicle Lights: Backup lights, interior lights and trunk lights can ruin someone's night vision. Please keep the doors and trunk closed if those lights can not be turned off or shielded. If your car's courtesy lights cannot be deactivated with a switch, please cover the lights with a piece of red plastic or tape. If you're planning to leave before dawn, park so as to be able to leave without using your lights or put duct tape over them. Some cars have running lights that can't be turned off.  One trick to disable your daytime running lights is to depress the emergency brake pedal until it clicks once.  You can still move the car but the daytime running lights will go off.  This may or may not work for your car. After you drive a safe distance away from the observing group, remember to turn the emergency brake off, so you don't cause undo damage to the brake system.

Setup: Be careful that your vehicle does not block the view of a nearby observer. If you set up a telescope, be sure to put it several yards away from your closest neighbor. Many people need room for star chart tables, chairs, power supplies, cables... and especially for long lines at the eyepiece. When in doubt, it's always a good idea to ask, "Is it OK if I set up here?"

Behavior: Never touch anyone else's equipment without permission. But don't be afraid to ask. Never touch any glass optical surface. Avoid loud and boisterous behavior. Stargazing is a quiet, peaceful activity.

Do Not Litter!   Everyone shall be responsible for his or her litter.   If you bring it in, take it with you when you leave.  Be sure to properly dispose of wrappings, cans, bottle caps, etc. and do a search of the area where you set up so that no litter remains.

Dust: Drive very slowly so as to avoid kicking up dust.

Wires: Watch your step (but don't use a flashlight). Be especially careful of wires on the ground. Some scopes require power and some folks use their car's battery. If your scope requires power try to make the wires as safe as possible so as to minimize danger of tripping.

Pets: No pets are allowed.

Music: It's fun to have the radio or stereo on in the car as you drive down the highway, but once you arrive at the site, turn it off. You'll be pleasantly surprised at the variety of night sounds that you can't hear in a noisy city. And tastes in music differ so violently that it is best to avoid it; and it's really part of the experience to take in the quiet sounds of nature at night. If you insist on listening to music, wear headphones.

Noise: Keep noise to a minimum. Camping on the observing field means sleeping occurs in close quarters. Be considerate of those sleeping during the daylight morning hours. If your observing equipment has controls to reduce noisy operation, such as reducing telescope slew speeds, make use of them.

Smoking: Just because you're outdoors doesn't mean your smoke isn't annoying. Smoke damages telescope optics and can cause sensitive individuals to suffer severe allergic reactions. Smokers should stay downwind of non-smokers and their telescopes. Smokers should be aware of the effect of light and smoke on long exposure photographs and CCD images and not smoke in vulnerable areas of the Deep Sky Area. The normally insignificant glow of a lighter or match is a killer to the dark-adapted eyes of your friends. Be careful to turn away, and cup your hands around the flash, so the flare of your match won't ruin anyone's eyes but your own. Keep in mind that eventually someone will have to pick up every cigarette and cigar butt you throw on the ground, so please use an ashtray. Do not throw butts on the ground.

Alcohol: Consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited.

Moving a Car: Early in the evening the car's parking lights (only for maneuvering) and back-up light are not really a problem. But later, if you are going to move your vehicle in areas outside of the Deep Sky Area, be sure to ask around to be sure nobody is in the middle of a photograph. Even if the scope is aimed away from you, the light bounces all over the site. By warning everybody, they can protect their eyes from the light. Check first when entering and leaving to be sure you are clear of telescopes.

Astrophotography: As you stroll about the site you may find someone with an eye glued to the eyepiece, never moving, holding a box with some buttons and a stretch cord. You've found an astrophotographer in mid-exposure, electrically guiding the scope to maintain it accurately on target, cross-hairs on guide star. This is basically a non-interruptible activity, at which even dim red lights are decidedly unwelcome! Never walk in front of the instrument. Guiding a fine photo is a painstaking sport; one cannot even let someone else take over for a break. Some astrophotographers like to have someone to chat with during a 30-60 minute exposure; others prefer to be left in solitude. If your tentative hello is met with an enthusiastic greeting, you've found one of the former variety.

Sun Danger: When quitting for the night, turn your scope to the west, away from the rising sun. Unless your covers are very heavy, the sun's heat can do severe damage when concentrated by the mirror and is a fire hazard.

Aerosol Sprays: One drop of spray can permanently damage telescope optics. Please do not apply insect repellent spray or use any other aerosol spray on the observing field. Lotions or roll-ons are fine.

Staying Elsewhere: If you are registered in a local motel instead of camping on the grounds, then you must make arrangements before hand to be able to leave when you wish. This means parking outside of the Dark Sky Area so you will be able to leave when you wish, without shining bright lights all over those who are still observing and ruining their night vision.

No Flash Photography: The bright strobe of a camera flash can destroy everyone's night vision for up to an hour.

Watch Your Children: We welcome the next generation of astronomers at our telescopes and we want them to have a safe evening observing.  Children are always welcome, but since the observing field is dark, small children are more likely to trip and get hurt, become lost, or bump into and damage expensive equipment, so please supervise closely.

Ask Before Touching: Some astronomers may be adjusting their equipment or doing delicate astrophotography, or the telescope may not be aimed at any object in particular, so please ask before touching or moving a telescope or other equipment.

Please Turn Your Car Off: First, your car will not help keep you warm. Astronomy does not work up a sweat. Bundle Up! Second, nobody else wants to breath your exhaust. Third, if you try to sleep in your car with the motor running you could get killed. Finally, others may be trying to sleep and you are keeping them awake. This rule goes for portable generators too!

Watch your step: There are lots of things on the ground including boxes, wires, ledges, and tripod legs.  Once your eyes adjust to the dark, you won't need your red flashlight.  Do not run. 

Do not spit: Many times astronomers must be on their hands and knees around the telescopes.  Nobody wants to encounter the end results of your chew

Don't "flick your Bic": If you must light up outside of the Deep Sky Area, go behind a large vehicle or otherwise thoroughly shield your flame.  A lighter is just as bad as a white flashlight. 

Keep food and drinks away from the telescopes: Sticky hands, sloshing drinks, and expensive optics do not mix. 

Don't Bug The Wildlife: We have had all sorts of critters visit us while stargazing - from deer to skunks. Surprising any of these beasts could lead to disaster.

Be considerate: Don't move in on someone without an invitation. Everyone loves to show off their equipment once in awhile, but they also have their own little group of friends that they are observing with. Unless you are lucky enough to be asked to join them for the entire evening, don't impose. Use common sense and keep your visit to a reasonable length of time.

Big Scopes: The largest telescopes on the field are not public property. It is probable that their owners have their own observing programs to carry out. If you would like to look through one, and everyone does, ask first. If possible, ask ahead of time if the scope will be open for public observing. Find out when, and go during the proper time.

Piggy: Don't become an eyepiece hog on someone else's telescope. When you are at someone else's telescope, don't get carried away and spend hours hogging their observing time. Keep your visit short, and then move on to the next scope on the field.

Have Fun: Become familiar with these guidelines so that all may enjoy the wonders of the universe under the dark skies of Cherry Springs State Park.