If you stargaze in the fall or winter, try thermal underwear, sweaters, hats, gloves or mittens, and scarves. If you stargaze in the spring or summer, wear multiple, light layers. Try a zip-up hoodie, light jacket, hat, and jeans. Bring one warm coat in case the temperature drops dramatically during the night.
Good options for comfort and warmth are: a yoga mat, pillows, tarp (in case of dew or damp grass), camping pad, camping chair, or reclining deck chair. [1] X Research source If prefer to sit up, remember to put something between yourself and the ground so that you don’t catch a chill.
Don’t bring blankets that are not washable. Anything you bring with you while stargazing may get dirty or wet, since you will be outdoors.
Popular beverage options are: hot chocolate, coffee, tea (especially during the colder months), water, soda, and beer or wine (if you are over 21 and have a designated driver). Portable, energy-filled foods you might want to bring are: trail mix, granola bars, chocolate, beef jerky, soup in a thermos, or pre-made sandwiches.
You are most likely to see meteor showers in the summertime. The “Perseids” meteor shower is awe-inspiring, and visible from nearly everywhere in the Northern Hemisphere. It occurs every August. [7] X Research source Some constellations that can be seen year-round (meaning they are “circumpolar”) are: Cassiopeia, Ursa Major, and Cepheus. [8] X Research source
Wherever you decide to stargaze, always bring bug spray. You certainly won’t be comfortable if you’re swatting at mosquitos all night! You can bring a bright floodlight or something to make loud noises with, to deter animals that may come near while you are stargazing.
Remember to clean up after yourself, both to avoid animal encounters and to protect the environment.
You can also try lying completely flat on the ground, for a fuller view of the sky. Some people find this posture slightly harder to get up from, however.
Your eyes will need anywhere from five to thirty minutes to adjust to the darkness, and turning a bright, white light off and on will deter this adjustment process. You can cover your regular flashlight with red cellophane, rather than buying an infra-red light. [12] X Research source
