Stargate Observatory Rules

To be a Lecturer or use Stargate Observatory unattended you must:
  • be a member in good standing for AT LEAST 3 months
  • have your dues paid up-to-date in full
  • have successfully completed the Observatory Orientation/Training
  • have demonstrated competence using Stargate Observatory
If you are not an Officer, a Lecturer, or a subgroup Chairperson, you must notify the 2nd Vice President before using the observatory. If you cannot contact the 2nd Vice President, contact the President or 1st Vice President. Officers, Lecturers, and subgroup Chairpersons are entitled to keys. Deposit and signature is required, with NO exceptions. Deposits will be held by the Treasurer. All keys are due on December 31, or upon request of the 2nd Vice President. At the discretion of the 2nd Vice President, one or more sets of keys will be available to the general membership for sign-out for periods up to two weeks. A refundable deposit is required. Lost keys and keys more than one week late will forfeit your deposit.

Observatory Code of Conduct:
  • During a lecture, unlock both doors
  • Sign-In (Log book) and note condition of Observatory
  • NO Alcoholic beverages permitted
  • NO parking on the grass, except to unload equipment, IF soil is not too soft
  • PACK OUT YOUR TRASH
  • Don't borrow items from Stargate without 2nd Vice President's permission
  • Report any needed repairs or maintenance to the 2nd Vice President
  • NO changes or repairs, including collimation and nose piece exchange, without prior approval from 2nd Vice President
  • Do NOT clean eyepieces or other optics
  • Key duplication prohibited
  • Record all authorized repairs in the Maintenance Log
Stargate Close-Up Procedure:
  • Sign Log Book
  • Place telescope in a horizontal attitude on the west side of the pier
  • Store eyepieces, cap tube and finders, and cover the telescope
  • Turn off and unplug all electronic equipment, especially heaters
  • Leave dome opening facing east
  • Remember to pack out your trash
  • Lock both doors and the dome slit
  • Turn on the outdoor lights
  • Replace gate chain across the roadway entrance
Priority for Observatory Use:
  1. Scheduled Lecturer (Friday and Saturday)
  2. Official Club Outing
  3. Subgroup Meetings
  4. Scheduled School or Similar Groups
  5. First-Come Basis (But Please Share!)