Astronomy Hacks

Be Prepared

Carry what you need so you’re ready to observe at any time.

Our regular observing gear could fill an SUV. In fact, it does. We have an Isuzu Trooper—Barbara calls it Astro Truck—dedicated to astronomy. It’s always packed and ready to go on observing trips. Although it’s not always feasible to carry that much gear, that doesn’t mean we’re not prepared to observe at any time and on no notice. The trick, as the Boy Scouts say, is to Be Prepared.

The amount and type of equipment you can have available depends on the situation; here’s what we recommend.

Backpacking Kit

Weight and size limitations strictly limit how much equipment you can bring along. At a minimum, carry a 7X50 or 10X50 binocular, which is also useful for observing birds and other wildlife, and a planisphere. A planisphere, shown in Figure 1-3, displays the positions of the stars for any date and time you “dial in.” (Planispheres are designed to work at a particular latitude, and they are generally produced in latitude increments of 10° The one shown is designed for use at 40° N, but is usable from 30° Nt 50° N. Choose the version that’s closest to your own latitude.)

Figure 1-3. A planisphere

Better still, substitute a PDA with planetarium software installed for the planisphere [Hack #65]. The PDA weighs no more than the planisphere, is smaller, and packs a great deal more information. If you can afford the extra ...