Events

Star Parties

Come out and bring the kids for a mind expanding look at the universe!


The City of San Carlos Department of Parks and Recreation and the San Mateo County Astronomical Society have open Star Parties twice a month. These events are held in Crestview Park, San Carlos California.

Dates and Sunset times are below. Note that inclement weather (clouds, excessive wind and showers) will cause the event to be canceled without notice.

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For more information send an email to SMCAS@live.com or call Ed Pieret at (650)862-9602.

Reasons to Attend
  1. If you have kids interested in space or planets bring them here for a real life view of planets, nebula, star clusters and galaxies.
  2. If you are thinking of buying a telescope or want help using a telescope you own, come here to talk with experienced users.
  3. If you think you might have an interest in astronomy come and talk to experienced amateur astronomers. 
Cautions
  • Dress warmly and wear a hat.
  • Visitors should park on the street and walk into the park so your headlights don't affect the observer's dark adaptation.
  • Only park in the parking lot if you are arriving before dark and plan to stay until the end of the event.
  • You shouldn't need lights but if you feel you do, only bring a small flashlight with the lens covered using red cellophane or red balloon.
  • Please respect the telescopes and ask permission from the owner if you wish to touch.
  • Parents, please watch your children.
  • The park is residential, and adjacent to homes and backyards, please keep noise to a minimum.
Schedule

Time

Astronomers arrive to set up at around sunset. Observing starts at about one hour after sunset and continues for two to three hours.

Date
 
 
8/7/2010
8/14/2010
9/4/2010
9/11/2010
10/2/2010
1/9/2010
10/30/2010
11/6/2010
11/27/2010
12/4/2010
 
   

 

 

Courtesy

If you attend a Crestview Star Party there are some general rules that apply so that everyone can enjoy the event and no expensive equipment is damaged.

  1. In order to see well it is essential that light be kept to a minimum.  Even brief flashes of white light can ruin night vision for 15 minutes or more.
    1. You should not need a flashlight but if you bring one be sure it is dim and covered with a red filter
    2. Park your car so that the headlights, back-up lights or door lights do not intefere.  At Crestview this means parking on the street and walking in.
  2. Star Parties are always quiet events. Please be respectful with cell phones and refrain from loud music. Control the natural enthusiasm of your children.
  3. Telescopes and other astronomical equipment are expensive. Be careful and never touch one without permission.
  4. Never use spray products near a telescope since the spray, even if it is just water, can damage the optics.