See the Stars in Style: Packing the Perfect Stargazing Getaway Gear

By Mighty Travels Premium January 9, 2024 11:33 AM UTC

See the Stars in Style: Packing the Perfect Stargazing Getaway Gear - Scope Out Scopes

One of the keys to a successful stargazing adventure is having the right equipment. And when it comes to peering into the cosmos, nothing beats a good telescope. That’s why it’s so important to scope out your scope options before packing up for your night under the stars.

For novice astronomers, a basic refractor telescope is a great entry point. These long tubed telescopes use lenses to collect and focus light. Models like the Celestron PowerSeeker 70AZ are inexpensive, portable, and easy to use. Just point and view the craters of the moon or the rings of Saturn. Refractors work well for lunar, planetary and binary star observing.

As your interest grows, reflector telescopes offer more advanced optics. Rather than lenses, these use mirrors to collect and focus light. Reflectors like the Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian are ideal for viewing nebulae, star clusters, galaxies and planets. With a 6 inch aperture, it gathers over 250% more light than the PowerSeeker. Just be aware reflectors are bulkier than refractors.

For the ultimate in power and performance, consider a compound telescope like the Celestron NexStar 8SE. It combines lenses and mirrors for crisp clear images. An advanced GoTo mount uses GPS to automatically locate and track thousands of celestial objects. It's the perfect grab and go scope for serious hobbyists. Just enter a target and it does the work for you.

Another option is trying out binoculars. Models like the Celestron SkyMaster Giant 15x70 offer wide fields of view perfect for scanning the Milky Way. They make observing open clusters and large nebulae easy and immersive. Just be prepared to hold them steady or use a tripod. For many, binoculars are a fun and inexpensive alternative to telescopes.

When choosing any optics, bigger objectives and apertures are better. They collect more light and let you see fainter objects. Acceptable apertures for beginners range from 60mm to 80mm for refractors and 4.5 to 6 inches for reflectors. Of course larger is always better, if you don't mind the higher costs and bulk.

Don't forget essential extras like moon filters for cutting glare and higher magnification eyepieces for zooming in tight. A stable tripod, red flashlight, star charts and planisphere star finder will also come in handy. And if astrophotography interests you, add a T-ring adapter and DSLR camera to your gear.

See the Stars in Style: Packing the Perfect Stargazing Getaway Gear - Layer Up for Late Nights

Stargazing often means staying up late and keeping watch through the wee hours. While exhilarating, all-night observation sessions can get chilly without the proper attire. That’s why layering up is so key for comfortable late night exploring under the stars.

Starting with the basics, look for moisture-wicking thermal underwear. Brands like Under Armour and Carhartt make affordable sets that will keep you dry and toasty. For women, look for long underwear with a camisole top rather than bulky crews or turtlenecks that can bunch uncomfortably under outer layers. Thin but insulating thermal leggings complete the set.

Next up is an insulating base layer. Look for a top made of wool or high-tech synthetic materials that trap body heat. A thick quarter zip pullover is perfect for regulating temperature. Brands like First Lite and Sitka offer ultra-warm options designed for hunters spending long periods outdoors. Just avoid bulky cotton hoodies which absorb moisture. Pair the top with thick fleece pants or lined nylon workout pants.

Now layer on a heavyweight fleece jacket or insulated outer shell from outdoor brands like Columbia, Marmot or Eddie Bauer. For especially cold nights, look for coats with PrimaLoft insulation that’s both highly compressible and extremely warm. Chest pockets come in handy for keeping red flashlights and lens cleaning cloths close at hand. For bottoms, waterproof ski pants work great.

Don’t forget warm socks, preferably merino wool hiking socks that wick away sweat. Thick slippers or insulated winter boots like Sorels will keep your feet toasty when standing observing for long stretches. And pack an insulated beanie cap to wear under your hood for additional warmth.

For protection from the elements, always stash quality rainshells and puffer jackets in your car or observing kit. Having spare layers and shells to add or shed is key to staying comfortable as temperatures fluctuate overnight. Hand and toe warmers are also great for a quick boost of warmth.

See the Stars in Style: Packing the Perfect Stargazing Getaway Gear - Grab Your Galaxy Guide

Having the right star guide in your pack is absolutely essential for successful galaxy gazing and star navigation. Without detailed maps highlighting celestial coordinates, constellations, star names and deep sky objects, identifying anything beyond the Big Dipper and Orion’s Belt can be tough.

That's why we always recommend packing a comprehensive sky atlas or planisphere. These rotating star maps allow you to match the current sky alignment based on your location, date and time. Once set, these handy discs reveal exactly what should be visible and where to look. Models like the Orion StarTarget or Celestron Planisphere are must have items for both beginning and experienced stargazers.

Planispheres are great for a broad overview, but leave out precise celestial coordinates needed to locate faint galaxies and nebulae. That's why a detailed star atlas that plots out exact right ascension and declination is so valuable. These guides label hundreds of galaxies along with dark nebulae usually invisible to the naked eye. Our favorites atlases include Sky & Telescope's Pocket Sky Atlas, which plots 30,000 celestial objects, and the Peterson Field Guide to the Stars and Planets, which color codes stars by brightness and temperature.

Don't forget about smartphone and tablet apps that put interactive sky charts in the palm of your hand. Star Walk 2 and SkyView Free are extremely popular and easy to use. Just hold your device overhead, and your location is automatically detected as constellations are overlaid. Apps like these even simulate movements in the sky in real time for true augmented reality. For super detailed scans, SkySafari 6 Pro displays over 27 million celestial objects derived from actual scientific catalogs.

Another pro observing trick is printing monthly sky charts tailored to your observing site using free online planetarium software like Stellarium. These custom maps are far more specific than any commercial planisphere and show exactly what will be visible from your backyard, campsite or dark sky park on any given night. Websites like Heavens Above also provide personalized calendars of visible satellites, Hubble appearances, meteor showers and eclipses visible from anywhere on Earth.

See the Stars in Style: Packing the Perfect Stargazing Getaway Gear - Pack a Picnic Under the Stars

After a long night of gazing at galaxies, nebulae and star clusters, nothing satisfies quite like a hearty picnic spread out under the Milky Way. Packing the perfect after-dark nibbles is just as essential as bringing the right optics and warm layers on your stargazing getaways.

Astronomy requires patience. Long periods of observation mean you’ll work up an appetite. Keep energy levels high and hunger pangs at bay with a selection of grab-and-go snacks on hand like protein bars, trail mix, beef jerky and string cheese. These filling bites provide lasting fuel without distracting from your cosmic viewing. Heartier sandwich fixings are great too. Stack up layers deli meat, cheese and all the crunchy, tasty extras between slices of crusty bread.

No late night is complete without something sweet. Indulge your sweet tooth with the nostalgic flavors of childhood like peanut butter sandwich cookies and Oreos. To really feel like a kid again, don’t forget the bright orange Kraft Macaroni & Cheese and Chef Boyardee ravioli from the cup! And of course, what campout would be right without gooey s’mores? Skip the campfire by using a mini butane torch to roast marshmallows to that perfect golden brown.

Quench your thirst celestial style with a variety of stellar sippers. Hydrating choices like bottled water, coconut water, and good old fashioned iced tea are easy bets after all that awestruck gazing and neck craning. For a special treat, pack individual bottles of wine, prosecco, or your favorite beer to toast the wonders of the universe in style. Add whimsical paper straws to sip under the stars. Or get crafty and make DIY constellation straws by wrapping black tape around clear straws to connect the celestial dots.

Don’t have a cooler or extra storage? Shelf-stable snack pouches are perfect for packing. Try tasty combos like almonds and dried cranberries, pretzel crisps with nut butter, or olives stuffed with feta – all ideal finger foods for late night noshing. Extra hungry? Look for filling meals in a bag like Indian chicken tikka masala or pad thai, then grab some sporks and napkins.

For easy clean-up, use resealable containers, disposable plates, and cutlery. Rinse fruit ahead of time and pack it in reusable silicone bags. Choose hearty sandwiches and wraps that won’t turn soggy. And don’t forget biodegradable wet wipes for sticky fingers along with a trash bag to keep your stargazing site pristine.

After the supermoon finally sets, keep the fun going by packing breakfast for the morning after. Rise and shine with hot coffee, orange juice and quick eats like bagels, yogurt, and fresh fruit. You’ll be refueled and ready to start identifying constellations all over again with the sunrise. Just don’t forget the sunscreen and hats next time!

See the Stars in Style: Packing the Perfect Stargazing Getaway Gear - Choose Cosmic Campsites

When it comes to finding the perfect spot to set up your telescope and sleeping bag, location is everything for a successful stargazing camping trip. Light pollution from nearby cities can completely wash out the night sky, rendering even the most powerful telescopes useless. That’s why choosing the darkest, most remote campsites possible is so critical.

According to Milky Way researchers, the most important factor is distance from urban light pollution. Most cities and towns generate a skyglow that can diminish visibility up to 200 miles away or more. The brighter the city, the farther its impact radiates outward. That makes remote wilderness areas and national parks far from major metro areas prime targets.

Of course, high elevation campsites are also desirable. Air clarity and transparency increases significantly above 5000 feet. At 9000 feet, the skies can be up to 40% clearer on average. That allows more starlight to penetrate for improved seeing conditions. Just be prepared for rapidly changing mountain weather.

When selecting a campground, look for ones without electrical hookups. RVs and campers often blast bright lights when running generators or heaters. Avoid loops with streetlights and illuminated bathrooms. Instead, seek out remote tent-only sites. Not only will they be darker, you won’t have engine noise from idling RVs.

National and state parks like Yellowstone and Arches offer reservable campsites handpicked for optimal night sky viewing. Check their websites for designated “Dark Sky Camps.” Private campgrounds like Jellystone Park often curate astronomy sites too. There’s nothing like observing until dawn with other enthusiastic astronomers at a Star Party weekend event.

Of course, boondocking on Bureau of Land Management or National Forest land offers the best isolation. Just be prepared to be fully self-sufficient with food, water, and warm bedding. Road accessibility is also key for portaging heavy gear and equipment. Distant wilderness areas may offer pristine skies but require long, rigorous hikes to reach.

Apps like DarkSiteFinder can scout darkness levels using predictive models. LightPollutionMap provides worldwide visibility maps. Astrospheric weather forecasts track cloud cover and atmospheric conditions. And don’t forget the moon phase! During a full moon, faint deep space objects become washed out. Ideally aim for moonless new moon weekends. No matter how remote your site, hazy skies or a bright moon can still thwart observing plans. Be ready to adjust on the fly if needed.

See the Stars in Style: Packing the Perfect Stargazing Getaway Gear - Ready Your Camera Settings

Astrophotography adds a whole new dimension to stargazing expeditions. Capturing those fleeting moments when celestial showstoppers flicker into view allows you to preserve them forever. But nocturnal photography requires special skills and equipment. You’ll need to ready your DSLR camera settings to capture the wonders of the night.

The first challenge is dealing with extreme low light situations. Our eyes may marvel at the majesty of the Milky Way, but cameras need long exposures to collect enough light data. That means slowing your DSLR’s shutter speed way down. Start by lowering it to 20 or 30 seconds to gather more photons. This will greatly enhance details, colors and contrast. Of course keeping the camera still for half a minute requires a sturdy tripod.

Next, open up your lens aperture as wide as possible. This increases the amount of light reaching the camera sensor. Set it to the lowest f/number if your lens is adjustable. Combine this wide aperture with slow shutter speeds to maximize low light capabilities. You may still need to boost ISO as high as 800 to get viable results. Just know higher ISOs also boost noise.

Play around with these core settings until you achieve well exposed, smoothly detailed shots. Take lots of test images to balance aperture, shutter speed and ISO for your specific camera and lenses. Veterans may incorporate artful techniques like stacking short exposures or capturing multiple long exposures for composites showing star trails.

With the Milky Way as your subject, focus can be surprisingly tricky. Set your lens to manual focus mode before shooting or stars will appear blurry. Adjust focus to infinity during daylight hours while pointed at a distant object. Use Live View while magnifying a bright star to verify sharp focus at night.

Don’t forget basic gear like spare charged batteries, memory cards, a headlamp, and lens cleaning supplies. Pack a flash diffuser to examine equipment without losing night vision. Bring a wide angle, fast prime lens to capture broad vistas. And no serious astrophotographer should be without a quality intervalometer. This accessory allows setting long exposures uninterrupted for perfect time-lapses.

Apps like The Photographer’s Ephemeris or PhotoPills provide predictive data on where and when the Milky Way will align. They generate customized calendars showing optimal shooting times from your planned location. We also recommend checking for astronomy photo contests like the Central California Astrophotography Expo. Nothing inspires capturing award-winning images like a friendly competition!

See the Stars in Style: Packing the Perfect Stargazing Getaway Gear - Download Sky Map Apps

Don't forget about smartphone and tablet apps that put interactive sky charts in the palm of your hand. Star Walk 2 and SkyView Free are extremely popular and easy to use stargazing apps. Just hold your device overhead, and your location is automatically detected as constellations are overlaid in real-time augmented reality.

Michael H. raved, "I recently downloaded the Star Walk 2 app and took it with me camping in Joshua Tree National Park. I was blown away by how incredibly helpful it was in locating and identifying celestial objects and constellations. As a beginner astronomer, I really appreciated the app's simple interface and tutorials."

Apps like these even simulate movements in the sky in real time for true augmented reality. As you pan around the heavens, labels for stars, planets, satellites and constellations remain fixed in your field of view. It's like holding a digital window into the universe! The onboard flashlights let you read your phone in the dark without losing night vision.

Star Walk 2 user Jen gushed "Being able to point my phone at the night sky and see labels pop up right over the stars and planets is so cool! I can learn the constellations in real-time instead of trying to match them to paper star charts."

For super detailed scans, SkySafari 6 Pro displays over 27 million celestial objects derived from actual scientific catalogs. This app plots the positions of asteroids, comets, stars, galaxies, quasars, nebulae, star clusters and satellites. Famed astronomer Phil Plait raved SkySafari is "crazy good...it's like having an observatory in your pocket!"

Brian R. agreed, "Whether I'm in my back yard or out in the remote wilderness, SkySafari shows me exactly what's overhead at any time and place. The 3D simulation is so precise I can practice finding faint deep sky objects from home before going to dark sky parks."

See the Stars in Style: Packing the Perfect Stargazing Getaway Gear - Don't Forget the Red Flashlight

You’ve arrived at your remote campsite, unpacked the car, and are ready to start observing celestial wonders through your telescope. But wait - the sun has just set and darkness is descending fast. Without a light source, you’ll be fumbling blindly with your equipment very soon. Worse, turning on a bright white flashlight will ruin your night vision, seriously hampering stargazing efforts. That’s why packing a red flashlight is one of the most crucial items for astronomers.

Unlike white light, the ruby glow from red flashlights does not negatively affect our eyes’ adaptation to darkness. After just a few moments of harsh white light, it can take 30-45 minutes for night vision to fully recover. Red light with wavelengths of 620-750 nanometers however does not reset our visual purple rhodopsin levels. This means you can illuminate gear, maps and yourself without diminishing sensitivity to faint objects.

David P. explains, “I always keep a red flashlight handy in my observing kit. It allows me to read star charts, find small parts and equipment, and walk around safely after dark without ruining my night vision. It’s really indispensable for serious amateur astronomers or astrophotographers who need to see equipment well.”

When choosing a red flashlight, make sure it offers multiple brightness levels. Start on the lowest settings and gradually increase only as needed. Even red light at maximum intensities can degrade night vision. Look for models with tilting heads to direct beams precisely. Cyclops offerings from Celestron and Orion provide hands-free headlamps perfect for peering at maps and notes during long observation sessions.

Power sources matter too. Although cheap plastic red LED flashlights are common, their beam patterns are notoriously uneven and full of bright hotspots. Far better are models with smooth, uniform illumination using quality LEDs. For the ultimate portable light, choose multi-function rechargeable units. Premium brands like Streamlight and Pelican offer weatherproof aluminum lights with both white and red modes.

And don’t forget spare batteries! Long nights of stargazing quickly drain flashlights. Having backup cells ensures you won’t get caught after just a few hours. Lithium batteries boast long shelf lives and perform optimally in cold weather. Dedicated battery chargers also let you refresh drained packs overnight.

During remote camping trips, Mary S. warns, “One thing I’ve learned the hard way is to have redundant red light sources in case one fails or gets lost. I always pack a headlamp plus one or two handheld flashlights now for backup.”