RMSS Rules & Regulations

Our list of "rules" is short, but important. In addition to the usual restrictions on white light after dark, and quiet time before noon each day, we request that all participants follow a few simple rules. Please remember, this is a delicate alpine environment and practice LOW IMPACT camping techniques and follow the "leave no trace" and "pack it in, pack it out" practices. Be sure everyone in your group is familiar with this material!

Our "Prime Directive". ­ No white light after dark! Use RED filtered flashlights on the observing field. There will be red cellophane available at the registration table to cover the lens of your flashlight if needed. Please pay special attention to automobile headlights, daytime running lights, dome lights, and backup lights. TIP: Rumor has it that one "click" of emergency brake will turn off your daytime running lights - useful if you're an astronomer!

All after dark arrivals MUST park in the separate roped off area. Do not drive past the "after dark parking" area with your lights on! If you need to leave before dawn, you MUST park in the "after dark parking" area.

Minimize traffic and drive slowly. To preserve the observing field and to keep dust down to a minimum, don't drive in and out of this site more than necessary and observe the speed limit of 5 mph.

Camping and Parking Regulations
Rocky Mountain Star Stare is now being held on private land belonging to the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society. There are 35 acres of open and treed land. While the previous restriction of parking next to "THE ROAD" is no longer in force, in order to minimize traffic (AND DUST) we ask that you first park near the entrance to the area, then spend some time walking the area to find a suitable campsite. It's only a quarter mile in each direction, and beautiful country! There will be a portion of the open field reserved for large RV's, and the balance of the open field reserved for telescopes. There are many hidden open areas back in the trees suitable for your own camping group and observing too! There will be RMSS Committee folks to assist you when you arrive.

Quiet time before noon each day. While RV's and generators are not restricted to a "designated area", we ask that you show due consideration for your fellow astronomers. Because many of us will be observing until dawn, it is very important that the area remain quiet before noon each day. Generator run times will be published on the RMSS schedule. Interior lighting of RV's must be shielded so as to not be visible from outside.

No open fires. No campfires, charcoal grills, fireworks or model rockets allowed. This is by order of the U.S. Forest Service, and the local volunteer fire services. Gas stoves and grills, however, ARE permitted. In times of extremely dry conditions, "if you can't turn it on or turn it off - you can't use it."

Smoking. If you smoke, we ask that you respect the wishes of those that do not, and please only smoke inside your vehicle, tent, or RV.

Please use caution while smoking. Be sure to extinguish your cigarettes completely and dispose of cigarette butts along with your trash. Do not drop cigarette butts on the ground. This area can be VERY dry in summer, and the risk of fire can be extreme. Also, use caution while smoking on the observing field?matches and cigarette lighters can interfere with night vision and astrophotography setups.

If you bring it in, take it out! It is important that attendees practice LEAVE NO TRACE camping techniques. Dispose properly of all trash. For more information about "Leave No Trace" call 1-800-332-4100.

Do not put anything into the portable rest rooms that you wouldn't flush at home - this includes trash and diapers.