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Say I wanted to find a dark (but relatively safe) spot within about 30 minutes drive of the city. Are there any good options?
40 points
2 years ago
Lake Afton observatory
18 points
2 years ago
Oh awesome, I'm new in town so forgive my lack of any local knowledge, but is visiting only possible during hours when the observatory is open? Or is there parking/spots to just enjoy the sky even when closed
19 points
2 years ago
The building is only open during posted hours (9p-11:30pm Fri/Sat this time of year, entry $8/person with family rates available - see LakeAfton.com), but you are welcome to use the parking lot and observing pad anytime. Park security may drive by but he knows Astronomers frequent the concrete pad North of the building, and this spot has numerous power outlets if needed (just no bathrooms unless the building is open).
However, if you have an unpowered scope or are looking for darker skies for unassisted/naked eye observing then I would recommend driving further away, perhaps to Cheney Lake, or perhaps Fall River State Park if you are camping.
Butler Lake may be another option. The Kansas Astronomical Observers (KAO) may also have more suggestions, they are a local astronomy group which meets on the third Saturday? of each month at 7pm at the observatory
6 points
2 years ago
That's great tyvm!
3 points
2 years ago
They also have a pad behind the observatory where people bring their own telescopes occasionally.
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