What You Need to Be A Successful Deep Sky
Observer
There are five basic things you need to become
a successful deep sky observer. I've listed them below in order of importance,
with the most important at the top. What I'm about to say may surprise
you!
1. A Dark Observing
Site
2. Knowledge and
Desire
3. Skill and Patience
4. Good Finder Charts
5. The Choice of
Instrument
A
Dark Observing Site
 Without
a doubt this is the most important requirement. As they say, "location,
location, location!" The vast majority of us live in or near a city and
that is simply no good for deep sky observing. Your backyard may be convenient,
but in all likely hood it is a very poor place to attempt all but the brightest
deep sky objects due to the skyglow caused by lights. You will get much
more out of this endeavor if you resign yourself to traveling at least
50 miles from the nearest large city. It amazes me how many people refuse
to face this simple fact.
Start by making some weekend trips to a
nearby range of mountains, desert, or countryside away from the city lights.
It may take some work to find a suitable spot, but remember, this is the
most important part of deep sky observing. Campgrounds often work well,
and it may help to contact your local astronomy club. These clubs often
have dark sky sites for members to use. Try to find a spot away from the
road so headlights will not blind you.
The International
Dark Sky Association has global
nighttime satellight images available and a dark
sky tool to help you find how dark a particular North American location
is.
When you plan your vacation consider visiting
locations that are far away from city lights and be sure to choose a time
around new moon. If you take your scope to a campground, look for a spot
that is as secluded as possible. Those ubiquitous Coleman lanterns can
ruin an otherwise excellent night. You should also expect some of your
neighbors to want to have a look, particularly in the early evening. That's
ok--sharing the night sky is one of the most enjoyable parts of the hobby
and the more friends you make the fewer lanterns you will have shining
into your camp.
next --> Knowledge
and Desire
1. A Dark Observing Site
2. Knowledge and
Desire
3. Skill and Patience
4. Good Finder Charts
5. The Choice of
Instrument
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