Heart of America Star Party Etiquette

Lighting Restriction – Use only red-filtered lights after dark to ensure uninterrupted viewing. Exceptions to the lighting restrictions are emergencies and inclement weather. 

Lasers – Lasers are restricted to 5mw output. No lasers after 10 p.m.

Late Arrivals - If you arrive after dark or intend to leave during the night, park facing south in the marked area reserved for after-dark parking on the south side of the first hill. A designated no-light shuttle vehicle will assist to transport equipment to and from the observing field if needed.

Vehicles  – Please drive slowly on gravel roads in and around the site to minimize dust. No vehicle movement inside the after-dark barrier after sunset. Cover or disable interior lights.

Pets – If you bring a pet, please be responsible by cleaning up after your pet and ensuring that the pet does not disturb, threaten, or cause damage. Pets should be on a leash or contained at all times. Pets are not allowed to enter the REB building, dining area, or presentation area. Pets may enter the site of other participants only with prior consent. Pets are welcome to use the remainder of the 40-acre site.

Music – Respect your neighbors by keeping the volume of your favorite music at a low level or use headphones. Please remember that there are many different music tastes including quietly listening to nature.

Quiet Time – Please observe quiet time between 10:30 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. This allows observers that are up late to sleep in.

Fires and Grills – For the safety of all star party participants, open fires are prohibited. Barbeque grills and other cooking equipment can be used. Please extinguish fires and smoldering coals before dark.

Aerosol Sprays – Aerosol sprays can damage optics and should be used downwind at least 30 feet from the nearest optical equipment. 

Smoking – If you smoke, please be courteous to others in the area and turn away from them when lighting up to preserve their night vision. Discard cigarette butts in the trash.

Trash – Please pick up and place all trash in a bag on a daily basis and remove it from the site when you leave.

Safety – Firearms and fireworks are prohibited. Do not point lasers at people.

Thank you in advance for making everyone’s observing experience enjoyable!