Observation Safety Rules

Intro astro labs are generally pretty safe. Much more so that intro chem labs. But there are some safety rules you should review as needed.

Safety Rules:

  1. Students are NOT allowed to be alone on the roof without a lab instructor present, except for a few minutes, e.g., during a transition from inside to outside work.
  2. It is dark on the roof, so allow your eyes to adjust before moving around too freely.
  3. No horsing around on the roof.
  4. Be alert to obstacles on the roof: e.g., telescope mounts, chairs, stools, other people. It's easy to back up and fall over obstacles.
  5. No high heels on the roof. The concrete slabs are NOT tight fitting.
  6. In or near winter, it can be cold on the roof. Bring adequate clothing.
  7. No laser pointers on the roof.
  8. NEVER shine a light source into a telescope: the light can be focused in the eyepiece and be dangerous to observers.
  9. No food, drink, or smokes on the roof.

And here some other observing notices.

  1. Having a flashlight of some kind is recommended. Cell phone lights are often adequate though not ideal.
  2. You may want to review or have a printout of List of Tricks for C8 Telescopes. See also Telescope Operation and Celestron C8 Telescope.
  3. The lab room doors will be locked when we are on the roof, and so you can leave your stuff in the lab room.
  4. When you get to the roof, each group finds a telescope if you are using the telescopes.