Requesting a Star Party

One of the cornerstones of the Austin Astronomical Society charter is outreach. AAS hosts monthly public star parties at the Eagle Eye Observatory at Canyon of the Eagles and quarterly parties at Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve. We are also available upon request to provide astronomy equipment and operators for other groups, schools or other service organizations (based on member availability and weather conditions).

Hosting a Star Party

There are several factors to consider when scheduling a date for a star party.

It is important to note that AAS holds two monthly meetings where a significant portion of our membership are involved. Our executive committee meets the first Monday of the month and our general membership assembles the second Friday.
It is also important to check our event calendar before settling on a date to ensure your function doesn't fall on one of our regular public star parties or any other large scale event.
Be conscious of sunset times and moon-rise times, including the phase of the moon. The moon, for observing, is a great element for a successful public event. However, too full and the light will keep guests from viewing other elements of the night sky. Too early in it's phase and there won't be much to look at. A quarter moon is ideal.
Take into consideration your surroundings. It is difficult to host a star party when your sky is obscured by tall buildings, trees or light pollution.
Lastly, access is key. A star party area should ideally be in close proximity to a parking area to allow astronomers ease of load in and out.

Star Party Request Form

Star Party FAQ

Q: Does the Austin Astronomical Society charge for star parties?

A: Our services are offered free of charge, however donations are graciously accepted.

Q: What is the process for arranging a star party?

A: The first step is to send us your star party request form (click the image above to open the form). Your request will be reviewed by the Outreach Committee and you will be contacted to discuss your event. The committee will post your event to our website and add it to their monthly Outreach bulletin. Your event will also be publicized at meetings and via email to the membership. Members will reach out to your designated contact to confirm attendance and your event contact will be responsible for carrying out or cancelling your event based on volunteer response. We do not guarantee volunteers at your event but we will do our best to fulfill your needs.

Q: Do you offer activities for daytime or indoor events?

A: When possible we can provide safe solar viewing of the sun during daylight hours. We also have access to several activities that can be carried out in indoor environments, including indoor telescope observing, astronomy talks and crafts

Q: How long do star parties last?

A: The duration of a star party depends on the crowd, function and skies. Our typical events run from one to three hours. We will work with your group to tailor a function to accommodate your needs.

For more information please email: contactaas@austinastro.org

Austin Astronomical Society
P.O. Box 142744, Austin, TX 78714-2744

email: contactaas@austinastro.org

Supporting members of the Astronomical League, Night Sky Network and International Dark Skies Association.

For any questions or more information about AAS - please email us at contactaas@austinastro.org.