Throwing a Star Party

Observing Basics

• Use the free resources at your library and on the Internet to learn with your child.
• Allow about half an hour for your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
• While observing, don't use any white lights. Cover the end of your flashlight with red cellophane.
• Bring a sleeping bag or reclining beach chair for comfort.
• Dress yourself and your child warmly. Even some summer nights can get chilly.
• Together, try to locate familiar constellations, the moon, and watch for shooting stars.

For More Information

To read more about astronomy and plan your star party, check out some of these books:

• New Astronomer: The Practical Guide to the Skills and Techniques of Skywatching by Carole Stott. An illustration-heavy, but very good introduction to skywatching. The book's everyday language makes it suitable for both children and adults.
• Stars and Planets by Ian Ridpath and Wil Tirion. This guide is chock-full of sky maps, diagrams of stars, and accessibly scientific descriptions and explanations about stars and planets. It's a great guidebook for the serious beginner.
• A Nature Company Guide Skywatching by David H. Levy. A visually compelling guide to the universe, this book inspires the reader to learn more with beautiful photography and good diagrams. It also covers the history of astronomy.
• Nightwatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe by Terence Dickinson. Starting with the basics, this book covers everything that a beginning astronomer needs to know, including stars, planets, solar and lunar eclipses, meteor showers, equipment, the moon and sun, auroras, and photographing these objects.

For online information, see these suggested websites:

• Astronomy for Kids Here you can learn all kinds of interesting information about the night sky, including the planets, sun, moon, and deep space objects.
• Astronomy.com Visit this site of Astronomy magazine for tips for beginners and more experienced astronomers.