SGL XI Information Page - Red Light Rules
March 9th - 14th 2016
Lucksall Caravan Park, Mordiford, Hereford
Light Rules
The handling of light at a star party is something that is a bit different, and so we’ll go into some detail. This may appear pedantic, but it really can make a huge amount of difference to the viewing/imaging experience for everyone. It takes the human eye at least 20-30 mins to become properly ‘dark adapted’ for stargazing. White light ruins that hard-won dark adaptation in an instant and also ruins images. By far the easiest way to make yourself truly unpopular at a star party is to walk around with a white torch!
We will be working with the campsite to minimise the amount of light in our area (for instance, using blackout material in the shower block windows). The lights that really need to be there will be shielded red wherever practical. You should ensure that you do the same wherever possible after dusk. If it’s clear at all, you should only use dim red light torches, as these do not significantly affect dark adaptation.
Laptops/Screens
Laptop computers used on the field should be shielded by using a cardboard box or similar,and facing away from other observers. For visual observers, they should also have heavy red filters. For astrophotography, red filters are also required for your laptop screen. Again remember that a laptop used in a tent should still be shielded as it will be bright to those outside.
Car Lights
If possible, remove fuses to stop interior lights or indicators from flashing if you need to get into your car. Alternatively, mask off the lights as much as possible. If you do need to open the doors and the lights are likely to flash, shout a warning to others so they can turn away
Arriving After Dark
Please park BEFORE you get to the rally field and find someone to assist in showing you to your pitch. If you drive onto the field with your lights on, you will very quickly make a lot of new friends!
Tent Lights
All people staying at the camp need to be mindful of the need to limit extraneous light. eg: keeping doors closed in camp buildings with interior lights. Remember than even in your tent a white light is easily visible and bright outside – so red lights should be used in tents. Please remember to check any external light on caravans / motorhomes before going to bed – it may be cloudy when you go to bed, and then clear later.
Head/Hand Torches
Dim red led torches are to be used on and around the observing fields, and keep them aimed at the ground. Bright red head-lamps should be dimmed with paint, red electrical tape, cellophane or nail varnish. A handy trick is replace one of the batteries with a dead one - this reduced the power and the brightness
Laser pointers
We will be operating a ‘no laser pointers’ rule, as they can be dangerous and can ruin night vision and photographs for others. The only exception will be if we decide to do an ‘SGL guided tour of the heavens’ at the start of an evening.
REMEMBER: It's the BRIGHTNESS as well as the colour! Red Light Rules WILL be in force after dusk when clear
Why all the fuss??
We have had people drive onto the field with full beams on, we have people's tents light up like a music festival, we have had people who head torch could light the dark side of the moon......
None of these things make for a good star party. While we all enjoy the social element, we are there predominantly to observe or image the heavens. We will not allow the enjoyment of the majority to be ruined by the thoughtless actions of the few!