No So Basic
Gear
Places to Observe and Observatories
One of the most challenging aspects of taking pictures of the night sky, is finding a location where it is safe and dark with little light pollution.
It doesn't take too long to work out that there are many common locations, such as the local Moogerah Dam west of Brisbane, Qld. However, even at night it can be a busy spot. Cars coming and going with their headlights, people coming over asking what you are doing, wanting to look at your equipment etc. Not somewhere where I am comfortable taking 1000's of dollars worth of equipment, particularly if I am on my own.
There are Star Parties, please do not let the name fool you, there is no dancing, music or alcohol (usually) :-). These are hosted generally by Astronomy Clubs, or telescope providers in pretty much total darkness (only red lights permissible). They are generally safe, and the organisers have permission to use the property for the event, and they only cost a few dollars to attend.
A Star Party is simply a gathering of people who want to look at the night sky, usually through a telescope.
I have attended quite a few sometimes with just my camera and a triopd.
I highly recommend it
There are some other alternatives, such as the balcony of a hotel room at night (more for city nightscapes), locally managed camp sites or , if you are really lucky, the use of an observatory.
An observatory usually provides a safe location, ample room to set up your equipment and protection from the elements.
If it looks like rain you simply close the roof.
They can come in various sizes and configurations based on the specific needs and preferences of the astronomer. Some may include additional features like equipment storage, computerised systems for telescope control, or amenities for comfort during observing sessions.
The private observatory I sometimes use is constructed for small personal telescopes providing a dedicated and controlled environment for stargazing, astro-photography, or astronomical observations. From this observatory I can select different telescopes and even cameras for the night, I can even select music to play, knowing that I am not disturbing anyone.
If I have two or three nights in the observatory, I set up the first night and simply close the roof and door when I am finished.
The next night, I simply turn everything on, roll back the roof and I am in business.
The sight is safe, has essential amenities, on site 24/7 security, alarms, security cameras and more.
