Stargazing in the winter is magical, with the dark sky at its clearest and best for viewing stars, bright planets and streaking meteors. However, being cold while stargazing can quickly ruin the experience.
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Being prepared for cold weather helps prevent heat loss and hypothermia. Layered clothing is the key, along with blankets and reclining chairs to help make it more comfortable.
Layers
Stargazing is an activity that requires you to remain motionless for long stretches of time. As a result, it’s important to dress warmly and bring comfortable equipment to ensure you can enjoy your experience without having to cut it short due to cold fingers or toes.
In addition to layers, you should also bring a notebook and pen so you can keep track of the objects you see. It’s a great way to remember what you saw and share your experience with others! Also, if you are planning on taking photos, don’t forget a sturdy tripod. Lastly, make sure to have extra batteries and memory cards for your camera. It will help your photos stay clear if you use a red headlamp to light up the area around your lens.
Hats
Stargazing requires spending time sitting or standing still for extended periods of time. Layering is a necessity, and hats are critical in keeping body heat from escaping.
Straw hats and bucket hats work for sun protection and beach use, while baseball caps, snapbacks, trucker hats, and newsboy hats are good options for sport and outdoor activities. Beanies, balaclavas, and ski masks also work.
UPF (Ultraviolet Protective Factor) rated hats are also good choices, and many of these hats feature storage that can hold sunglasses or even credit cards. Many of these hats are machine-washable, but it is recommended to hand wash them to avoid salty sweat stains. The Patagonia Quandary Brimmer Sun Hat, Filson Summer Packer Hat and Tilley Wanderer Hat are good hat options with UPF ratings.
Gloves
Keeping your hands warm is critical for stargazing, so be sure to bring plenty of gloves. A hat that covers your ears is also helpful, as heat escapes through your ear lobes. Chemical or battery operated hand warmers can be slipped inside your gloves, pockets, or boots for extra warmth.
Consider bringing a pair of sturdy astronomy gloves that provide enough dexterity to work with telescopes and binoculars. Astrogloves are made of neoprene and synthetic leather, with grippy palms. They’re touchscreen compatible, too!
A thermal pad or insulated mat can reduce heat loss from the ground if you plan to sit camping tents for long periods of time. You could also bring a small propane or butane heater to provide localized warmth for yourself and other stargazers.
Warm Drinks
Many stargazers enjoy a warm beverage during their viewing session. A cup of hot cocoa, chai tea or ginger tea can help take the chill off. However, alcoholic beverages are not the best choices since they will widen your blood vessels, which in turn makes you lose heat.
The ideal temperature for a warm drink is around 37 degrees Celsius. This temperature hydrates you at your core body temperature and does not burn your mouth or throat.
A hot apple cider can also be a great option. It’s cozy, delicious and a perfect drink for sharing. If you’re interested in a more spirit-forward drink try a hot toddy or a bourbon and ginger cocktail. The warmth of the bourbon and ginger together creates a comforting balance of sweet and spicy sensations.
Movement
Stargazing is an activity that involves being motionless for long periods of time, so it is important to dress appropriately. Make sure that you wear warm clothing and a hat to keep yourself as comfortable as possible.
Dark, secluded places are the best for stargazing as light pollution from streetlights, pubs, restaurants and neighbours’ security lights can obscure the pin pricks of stars. It also helps if the moon isn’t out (you can find this out by using a constellation guide).
Looking up at the night sky can inspire a curiosity about astronomy and science, and it can encourage reflection on our place in the universe. It can also provide a sense of perspective on the issues we face on Earth. The beauty and wonder of the cosmos can be a great stress reliever.
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