On behalf of the Minnesota Astronomical Society and Baylor Regional Park and , welcome! The Park, the MAS and your fellow visitors appreciate your attention to these rules and guidelines.
Park Fees, Hours of Operation: There are no fees charged to visit the observatory. Visitors are encouraged either pay the daily use fee as posted at the entrance to the park or purchase an annual park permit. During observatory events and MAS star parties the park's closing hours are extended until the last MAS member leaves the park.
Restrooms: There are no restroom in the observatory building. Indoor restrooms are available in the large barn at the park entrance (entry is on the building's north side). There are also outhouses northwest of the observatory, beyond the baseball diamond. During summer months, restrooms are available in the building by the lake.
Dress Accordingly: The observatory building is unheated to minimize the negative effects of "heat waves" on the telescopes' sensitive optics. Dress for cooler-than-expected weather, removing layers of clothing if necessary.
Bugs: Mosquitoes and other bugs are common at the observatory and at star parties. Protect yourself as appropriate, but PLEASE do not apply bug spray while inside the observatory building or anywhere near portable telescopes.
Headlights: You may notice cars approaching the observing location using only parking lights for illumination. This is a courtesy to those at the observatory whose eyes have adapted to the dark. While normal "star party etiquette", not everyone is comfortable driving with only parking lights to guide them. Use headlights if you must, but keep their use to a minimum when near the observatory.
Flashlights: Flashlights equipped with red filters are much appreciated by star party participants. If you bring an unfiltered flashlight, Turn it off when not needed, keep it pointed toward the ground at all times and never shine it at equipment or other people. (Red "glow sticks" may be available at the observatory for a small donation -- check with an volunteer for more information.)
Children: Children are welcome when accompanied by a responsible adult, but do consider that young children can quickly become bored when outside on a dark night. It can also become quite chilly at night so be sure children are dressed warmly. Please supervise children at all times -- it only takes a moment's carelessness for injury or equipment damage to occur, particularly in the dark!
Pets: The MAS prefers you do not bring pets to the observatory or star party. This is for the safety of your pet and to protect participants' fragile astronomical equipment. Please observe the park's regulations regarding pets.
Smoking: There is no smoking in the observatory building or on its grounds.
Littering: If you brought it with you, throw it in a trashcan or take it when you leave!
Be Considerate: Star party participants are of all ages and backgrounds. Individuals exhibiting inappropriate behavior may be asked to leave. Also, star party participants may have thousands of dollars invested in their astronomical equipment -- always ask permission before touching or using it!
Ask Questions and Have Fun: MAS members enjoy talking about their hobby and will be more than willing to share their love of the universe with you!