Master Policy

Program Safety

All 46 North Astronomy Center programs are subject to weather, site conditions, equipment safety, event leader discretion, and applicable policies.

Night Observing

Participants should expect low-light conditions, uneven ground, cables, tripods, vehicles, wildlife, changing weather, and limited visibility. Red-light practices may be required.

Solar Observing

Solar observing may only be conducted with proper equipment, approved filters, and trained supervision. Unfiltered viewing of the Sun is never permitted.

Equipment Use

Telescopes, mounts, cameras, radios, computers, tools, and field equipment may require training or supervision before use.

Field Activities

Programs may involve rural properties, trails, forests, cold weather, insects, fire risk, and limited services. Event plans should include communication, weather, first aid, and emergency considerations.

Fire-Wise Planning

Future facilities and field programs should incorporate defensible space, emergency access, water supply planning, fire cache concepts, and coordination with local emergency responders.

Event Authority

Program leaders or 46 North Astronomy Center representatives may modify, delay, cancel, or end activities when safety conditions require it.