Howdy all; Being the Novice Group coordinator for SAC, I would like to speak to the beginners for a moment about this weekend. I know that at least a few of you are concerned about a long trip to a star party at 5 Mile Meadow. Yes, it is a long trip.....but I promise you it is worth it. If you are just learning the sky, nothing can be as captivating as a night under really dark skies. In particular this time of year when the beauty of the Milky Way flows from Scorpius to Cassiopeia and all points in between. If you don't have the equipment to camp, then just plan to sleep in the back seat of the car. A couple of blankets and a pillow can almost take the place of a sleeping bag. I take a few towels or pieces of cardboard to block the windows from the rising SUN....you are going to be trying to sleep late. We have spoken of warm clothes several times and they are important. Also, bring plenty of fluids....the altitude dehydrates your body. Sun block creme and a hat for the daytime also needs to be on the list of things to bring along. We will be in the trees so some bug repellent is a good choice. I did mention a folding table, I like a comfortable folding chair also. I am still looking for a new one after mine broke last weekend from years of use. I did mention a list and it is important. Nothing can ruin a good observing weekend faster than forgetting a much-needed item. If you came to my house you would see my list right on the wall near the telescopes. So, list all the items you would need to use your telescope....mount, tripod, eyepieces, battery, cables, star charts.....like that. And check the list carefully before you leave. There is no place in Happy Jack to buy parts for your new Celestron or Meade scope. White lights--it is simple--Don't Do It. This is the one thing that will get observers unhappy with you. Bring a red flashlight with good batteries. Rig your vehicle so that it won't splash white light around. If you can't turn off the overhead lights, then cover them with tape....masking tape (3 layers), red tail-light repair tape from Auto Zone or...Duct Tape. Just cover that while light source. So, try and get up with us to the high country this weekend. It will be the only star party in the next several months that is way out of town and still has the ability to get the family sedan into the site. I promise it is OK for you to walk up and say "Is that the Big Dipper?" because there are so many stars you are lost. All of us old timers have a story like that....they are cherished nights. See ya under dark Arizona skies; Steve Coe Novice Group Chairman, Saguaro Astronomy Club Author "Deep Sky Observing--The Astronomical Tourist" Saguaro Astronomy Club website www.saguaroastro.org -- See message header for info on list archives or unsubscribing, and please send personal replies to the author, not the list.