FAQ

I've registered for GSSP. May I decide to bring another adult later?
Yes you may. We have no space limitations. Feel free to bring others along. Onsite registration fees for additional adults will apply when you arrive.

Will it be safe to leave telescopes set up at all times?
Absolutely. The observing site is on private property and is completely safe. Except during a modest public night on Saturday, only registered attendees and our vendors will be allowed on the telescope field.

What time can we arrive and set up our equipment?
The gate will open at 11:00 on Wednesday morning. No one will be allowed onto the property until then.

How far is the telescope setup area from the campground?
You may camp or park next to your equipment. There is plenty of space.

Can RV's park in the observing areas?
Yes. RV’s are welcome, and will be parked along the perimeter of the observing area in an RV section.

Can I have lights on in my RV at night?
Yes, dim ones, with proper shielding to prevent light from being visible outside the RV. One method of shielding light is with Reflectix carefully taped over the windows using Gaffers Tape. Both are available at Orchard Supply Hardware. Care should also be taken to turn off interior lights before going in or out of the RV after dark.

Can I use my laptop computer at night?
Yes, with proper shielding. Many people place the laptop in a cardboard box, with the opening to the side toward their telescope. This helps prevent others "off-axis" from your computer seeing it. Even more important is to shield the laptop screen with a layer or two of dark red or gray plastic, held on with Gaffers Tape. Plastic is inexpensive and easy to have cut to size at companies such as Tap Plastics. The key is to prevent any light "leaking" out the sides - which is done with the Gaffers Tape, and to have the red plastic dark enough.

Can I bring my pet?
Pets are allowed at GSSP as long as they do not cause any threat to others or interfere with quiet hours. Pets must be on a leash and under owner control when outside at all times. Pets cannot be left unattended outside, even when on a leash. Pet owners are responsible for the behavior and actions of their pets at all times. Pet owners must pick up after their pet in all locations at GSSP.

Can I bring a BBQ?
Please bring only camping type stoves or grills. There are no open fires allowed, including BBQs.

Can I bring a generator?
We will have a battery charging station running each day. You may also bring a personal “whisper” generator. We ask that night-time generator users set up at the periphery (this will be designated) and have the generator located 50 – 100 feet away from the campsites. You will need a long extension cord.

I’m staying at a local motel. Can I drive in and out at night?
There is no driving in and out of the event at night. This is a dark sky event and we wish to avoid unnecessary exposure to nearby headlights. Also, it’s not safe to drive on this property at night and for that reason alone, all observers must be onsite by twilight and may not leave till dawn.

Can I use a Green Laser pointer?
No green lasers will be allowed at GSSP. There are no exceptions.

4th of July! Will there be fireworks?
Fireworks ARE NOT permitted. Please do not bring any type of fireworks. The night sky will provide all the sparkle you'll need!