Here in MA, seeing that it's winter and I go to a site to do my photography, I always pack those hand warmer packets; I also use a thermaset heated cushions that hunters use for sitting on (they reflect the heat back to your body); I have a duffel bag with extra warm clothes in the car; a scarf for around my neck; spent the money on flannel lined pants (best investment), insulated snow boots (another great investment. My feet have never been so warm!} and a nice woolen hat. I also pack a thermos with hot chocolate. During the summer, I'll wear my rain boots to keep my feet dry from the dew.
It's always good to be prepared. I think like a hiker/backpacker when putting the clothes together. Moisture and the right temperature can spell bad things!
Another great video! I have lists saved on my computer with all the gear necessary for a night of observing. I find that I often add things to it or remove things depending on what I plan to do that night. The lists give me a great starting point. My gear is stored in easy to move boxes and I find I usually put them in the same positions in the car. That way, set is easy, the pieces come out as they are needed and likewise, when I'm tearing my setup down, they return to the same spot in the reverse order. Dressing properly is really important! I can't count how many times I've seen people at the star parties in tee shirts and shorts in the summer, their arms wrapped around them trying to stay warm. They are missing out on the fun of astronomy because they are worried about staying warm! Another thing I always take, I'm not sure if you mentioned it, is a hat. I seem to have a lot less hair than I used to, the insulation up-top isn't quite as good as it used to be! It is all about staying comfortable! Thanks for the tips and Clear Skies"!
Hahaha Phil, you made me laugh with your hat point. No, I didn't mention it, but since I keep my hair short, I should have! Preparation is KEY to making things go smooth. I like your point about loading/unloading the car. I tend to put everything in the same spots too, even though that wasn't mentioned. Makes it easy if you're loading up at a location with other imagers that are still going, you don't need to turn on a white light!
Love your channel! Heard you mention headlamp. I’m a huge flashlight Connoisseur myself. Wondering what type of headlamp you use. I always have a hand held flashlight but a lot of times they are cumbersome. A good headlamp (off the top of me head I’ve heard the “Petzel” brand thrown around.) can get quite costly. Maybe a quick video if not just a reply.
@@AstroEscape thanks. I’m traveling a long way, Alabama to Texas and then New Mexico. I may try to see if the legs fit into my Gitzo tripod travel bags. I have a new Asair Plus and I just received my Skywatcher Heq5 mount. I’ve used your videos extensively to get me through the learning curve.
