Cold weather observing

[Chich]

I was asked recently about being out in the cold. I've been out at -29c, and it was glorious for clear skies but you had to take some precautions,

Batteries and electronics will fade faster and lubricants can solidify if not kept warm. I would sometimes use one of those heating packs and wrap the mount in a small blanket.

Frost. I learned right quick that you didn't just bring your gear back in. Even with the fairly dry indoor air the kit would quickly become covered in a layer of frost which would eventually melt. I kept my kit covered in an unwarmed garage. If I had to bring something in, I would wrap it up first so it could warm without a good soaking.

In the summer I usually put down a tarp under the kit. In the event I drop something it is much easier to find. Winter, tarps slide around too much so I went with a cloth blanket.

Keeping yourself warm can be an issue if you are not used to it. Bundle up in layers and have a serious look at heated vests, gloves socks etc. Fingerless gloves with a mitten over top can help with adjustments.

Any other hints about being observing at sub zero?

[Ylem]

I used to go winter camping, but not much colder than -15C.

Now a days -5C is probably my limit, long johns, double wool socks, wool hat and a down parka in addition to a fire nearby helps.

[jrkirkham]

My all time coldest was -8 C. I can't even imagine -29 C.

[Lady Fraktor]

Do not forget a really good pair of warm boots!
I have a pair rated to -75°C and have been out at -63°C (work) and the feet were warm.
Another item we were using was a snowmobile riders snorkel so you were not accidentally breathing on a eyepiece.

The coldest I have been out observing in was -35°C

[pakarinen]

Snowmobile suit, a pair of Sorels, and a good knit cap.

[OzEclipse]

Solar Eclipse at + 80 degrees is my record. It was minus 22 degrees Celsius at 80 degrees north latitude.
Brrr
Report here:-
https://joe-cali.com/eclipses/PAST/TSE2015/index.html

Cold weather equipment and clothing preparations described here:-
https://joe-cali.com/eclipses/PAST/TSE2 ... tions.html

Joe

[Unitron48]

Invested in heated socks! Checked out for first time 13/14 December. Worked great!!

Dave

[seigell]

snowmobile riders snorkel

You've managed to stump Google on that one...

[Lady Fraktor]

snowmobile riders snorkel

You've managed to stump Google on that one...

I likely have the terminology wrong, they were like this but had a flexible tube over the mouth area (about 60cm long) to direct the air over your shoulder.

[Razz]

The only thing I can suggest are Carharrts. I have Carharrt overalls and a coat and I've been out in -10 F...The overalls do most of the work as I've also been out wearing them with just a hoodie...

[rickclark28]

What is the best procedure(s) do you guys use to protect your equipment from the cold?
More specific how do protect from moisture after a cold outing and you bring your gear in? What do you use to cover the gear and protect from moisture?
Just starting out and although the clouds are persistent, we do get some nights that we can get out in the backyard.

[Lady Fraktor]

It depends on the type of telescope and where you store it. heated/ unheated location etc

[helicon]

I'm hoping to get out tonight as this morning it is sunny and clear. A balmy 9 degrees F too. Yesterday I had 14" of snow on my steep and winding driveway that took me two hours to shovel off. As mostly a Californian I'm trying to adapt to this stuff.

[pakarinen]

Bought a pair of technical pants - nylon-like outer fabric with flannel lining like ski bibs. Wore them for an observing session at +10*F the other night. They're so warm and comfortable to wear even while driving that I bought two more pair. $20 at CostCo.

We'll see how they do when the Canadian Death Blizzard gets here tomorrow night.

[rickclark28]

It depends on the type of telescope and where you store it. heated/ unheated location etc

Lady Fraktor,
At 65 yrs. old I just started backyard Astronomy with my 14 yr. old granddaughter. We have just the basics for now with the following. I keep the equipment inside now heated. Just looking for help with caring for hardware in the cold days of winter. Trying to avoid condensation etc.

*The HSL76700 entry-level Newtonian reflector telescope. 700mm Focal Length (35X-875X)
*Celestron Powerseeker 70AZ 70mm Telescope (very old and used)
*SKONYON 70mm Aperture 300mm Astronomical Refractor Telescope
*Several binoculars.

Thanks for replying! I am just a bit in the dark on this subject of telescopes. Looking to invest in the future on a good telescope.
Rick Clark CSE, CNA

[Lady Fraktor]

If the telescope optics are clear (no frost/ dew) just cap it and bring the telescope inside to warm.
If there is frost/ dew on the optics then bring it inside uncapped and let it warm up. keep the tube horizontal so any moisture does not collect on the optics.

[JayTee]

The Arctic blast is here!

Along with it are potentially clear skies and life-threatening cold temps. Tonight's low forecast is -8° to -10°F (-22° to -23°C). The locals say it hasn't been this cold here in 30 years!

The observatory roof has shown that it operates as advertised in cold temps, this cold we'll see.

The big question is, do I have the fortitude to go out and brave this level of cold?

I'll let you know in 5 hours.

BTW - The wind chill could get as low as -35°F (-37°C)

EDIT: The sky never got clear enough to be called "useable". So I didn't have to make the tough call...

[Lady Fraktor]

@rickclark28
I forgot to mention that using desiccant is a good way to keep moisture in the telescope tube at bay while not in use.
You can make a 1.25" desiccant holder from a 35mm film canister. Punch a bunch of 1mm holes in the side fill it up, it will fit in the focuser perfectly.
You can also by fancy desiccant and holders from various asto retailers as well.

[kt4hx]

I'm hoping to get out tonight as this morning it is sunny and clear. A balmy 9 degrees F too. Yesterday I had 14" of snow on my steep and winding driveway that took me two hours to shovel off. As mostly a Californian I'm trying to adapt to this stuff.

You might want to invest in a snow blower Michael. For those that get snowed on regularly, sure beats shoveling.

[helicon]

I'm hoping to get out tonight as this morning it is sunny and clear. A balmy 9 degrees F too. Yesterday I had 14" of snow on my steep and winding driveway that took me two hours to shovel off. As mostly a Californian I'm trying to adapt to this stuff.

You might want to invest in a snow blower Michael. For those that get snowed on regularly, sure beats shoveling.

I looked it up Alan and supposedly you can't use them on concrete driveways...there may be a type without rotors but I am not sure. Shovel, salt, and sand seems to be the way to go. Expecting more snow tonight. I did make it to the grocery store yesterday but getting up the driveway is a slippery adventure.

Also didn't manage to get out, partly cloudy and 5 degrees. I guess @JayTee has it worse though.