An Evening of Stargazing
Spending a night under the stars with a group of friends or a special someone can make for an unforgettable evening. There’s a kind of intimacy that can only be found when contemplating the vastness of the universe. To make an evening of stargazing as perfect as possible, you’ll need to do some planning. Consider the following if you’re thinking about hosting your own starry night.
When you begin to plan your star party, put some thought into where and when it will take place. It’s hard to plan too far ahead because you’ll want to make sure the weather is cooperating with you. The moon can also mess up your plans: the fuller it is the more difficult it will be to see the stars. Finally, consider where you’ll hold the party. If you live in a rural area you will probably have access to lots of spaces where street lamps and house lights won’t pollute your view of the sky. For those in more populated areas some traveling might be necessary.
When you’re outside at night it’s easy to end up with a crick in your neck or a soggy bottom if you don’t have something to sit on. Proper seating is something that’s easy to overlook when going on an impromptu star watch, but it can make a huge difference. Reclining beach chairs are a great choice if they’re available to you. Otherwise, a soft, thick blanket that you’re willing to risk getting a little dirty will do the trick.
Clothing is another important consideration. Think about what environment you’ll be in. If you’re going to a place known for its mosquito population, make sure to wear long clothing so you don’t return home covered with bites. Even summer nights can get chilly quickly, so it might not be a bad idea to dress in layers. Warm clothing is especially important for winter stargazing. . If you’re sitting still for long periods of time it’s easy to get dangerously cold, so don’t scrimp on the mittens and earmuffs.
A good party has good food, and a star party is no exception! If you’re going out with a group of friends ask everyone to bring their favorite finger food. For those who are of age and have someone who’s willing to drive, a cocktail or two can make for a perfectly elegant affair. If it’s just you and someone you’d like to get to know a bit better, sharing a mug of steaming coffee or cocoa can help bring you together under the vast night sky.
After you’ve armed yourself with physical accessories, don’t forget to equip your mind. Before you leave, take a few minutes to research the current night sky. There will be two or three easy to identify stars and constellations no mater what time of year it is, and the stories behind them are often beautiful and fascinating. Study up before you go out and be ready to impress your friends.
Sharing the beauty of the night sky with the people you care about can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Take the time to prepare yourself properly and you’ll be in for a night you will never forget.
