Outreach is one of the cornerstones of the Austin Astronomical Society charter. We host our own monthly public star parties at Pedernales Falls State Park and Inks Lake State Park. During the rest of the month, our members assist organizations with their functions. We are available to provide astronomy equipment and operators for other groups, schools or service organizations (upon request, based on member availability and weather conditions).
Star Party Quick FAQ
Q: Does the Austin Astronomical Society charge for star parties?
A: We offer our services free of charge. However, we welcome and appreciate donations to the organization.
Q: What is the process for arranging a star party?
A: The first step is to send us your star party request form (see below). Our Outreach Committee will review your request, and you will be contacted to discuss your event. The Committee will post your event to our website and will add it to their monthly Outreach bulletin. The Committee will publicize your event at our meetings and also via email to the membership. Members will reach out to your designated contact to confirm their attendance. Your event contact will be responsible for carrying out or canceling 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 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. Typically, our events run from one to three hours. We will work with your group to tailor a function to accommodate your needs.
Scheduling and Hosting a Star Party
There are several factors to consider when scheduling a date for a star party.
- Please note that AAS holds two monthly meetings. A significant portion of our membership may be unavailable on those evenings. Our Executive Committee meets the first Monday of the month. Our general membership assembles the second Friday of the month.
- Please check our Events page before settling on a date to ensure your function doesn’t fall on one of our regular public star parties or any other large event.
- Be aware of sunset times and moon rise times, including the phase of the moon, when considering your event date. The moon is a great viewing element for a successful public event. However, if it is too full, the light will keep guests from viewing other objects in the night sky. If it is too early in its phase, there won’t be much to look at. A quarter moon is ideal. Check our Pedernales Falls State Park Observing page for sky information.
- 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. Ideally a star party area should be close to a parking area. Our astronomers need to load in and out their bulky and sometimes very heavy equipment and supplies.
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