Overview of Resources

• Website Links - Astronomy Organizations

  Links to Astronomy Clubs

  # of links: 6
• Website Links - Sky and Weather

  Here are a number of weather related links to help you predict cloud conditions, seeing conditions and space weather.

  # of links: 9
• Website Links - Dark Sky Locations

  A frequent question is where can go to find really dark skies?

  If you live near St. Louis this is a real challenge. Most experienced observers use state or local parks and conservations areas. Here are some links and tips on how to find such locations. Once you find an area you like, identify the authority responsible, contact them and make sure you have approval. While most state facilities have sundown or after dark restrictions, most state park rangers are very understanding and even encouraging. Always be courteous and don't assume you have a right to be there without proper permission.

  # of links: 7
• Website Links - Local Observatories

  The St. Louis area has one major Planetarium and several small observatories that have viewing events open to the public. The McDonnell Planetarium (slsc.org/planetarium) in Forest Park offer telescope view on the first Friday night each month. The University of Missouri-St Louis (umsl.edu/~physics) observatory has monthly viewing typically on Saturday nights. Washington University’s (Crow Observatory) observatory on the roof of Crow Hall is open during the Fall and Spring semesters, weather permitting, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings. Pattonville School District’s observatory (Pattonville Observatory) has Friday night viewings twice each month. Observatories are also located on the campuses of the University Missouri at Columbia (UMC) and Rolla (UMR) as well as Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville (SIU-E), and Southeast Missouri State (SEMO).

  # of links: 7
• Website Links - Star Party Links

  Star Party Links

  What are “star parties”? It is a term used by amateur astronomer for an event where people gather to enjoy the wonders of the night sky together. These gatherings can be held in city, suburban or rural settings. People share their knowledge and pass the time looing through one another’s telescopes and binoculars. Most “star parties” are on a local level. SLAS holds many public star parties throughout the year at municipal, state and national parks. Go to the SLAS event calendar to find out about upcoming events. If you can’t wait to experience the fun of a star party, view some of these links, to get an idea what they are all about.

  # of links: 4