Come to the PARI STAR PARTY being hosted December 14-16, 2012.  Operating as a radio observatory and science education center, PARI also happens to be one of the finest dark sky sites in North Carolina.  PARI's well-equipped campus can accommodate overnight visitors and sleeping areas.  PARI skies are a treat for both visual observers, and serious astro–imagers.  Activities will include daytime workshops and site tours starting 4 PM Friday , Saturday from 10 AM until late that evening and Sunday morning 9 AM to 11 AM.

This year’s star party coincides with the Geminid meteor shower.  We are especially excited about this year’s program focused on meteors. We have assembled a panel of renowned meteorite experts, led by Dr. Mike Reynolds.  Presentations will run during Friday night's Evening At PARI program and through the weekend. In addition, each attendee will receive a sample of a real meteorite to take home with them.  CLICK for the tentative schedule.

All Evenings

Each evening meteor watching will commence all over campus. Bring your own lawn chair or lounge chair, and prepare to dress warmly. Watchers near the cafeteria will have the best access to hot chocolate.

In the event of clouds, a selection of Hollywood’s best and worst meteor-themed disaster movies will be presented.

Registrations
Registrations are expected to fill up fast!  Register and pay online or download the PDF version of the form.  Registration will be confirmed upon receipt of your payment.  Mail to PARI Star Party, One PARI Drive, Rosman, NC 28772.

Star party online registration

PDF printable version

Fees (all fees are per person):

Registration and meals for Star Party       $50.00 per person (required fee to confirm your registration for Friday,  Saturday and Sunday)
On-campus housing                                  $100.00 per person for Friday and Saturday night
On-site Camping                                       $50.00 per person

Make checks payable to"PARI" and mail to PARI Star Party, One PARI Drive, Rosman, NC 28772.  Registration will be confirmed and your payment is received by PARI accounting office. Click here to pay by credit card.

About the Site:
PARI is a working observatory, not a public campground. Visitors must observe standard PARI operating proceedures as directed by the staff and the PARI visitor policy at all times.

Be advised, that cell phone signals are largely non-existent at this functioning radio observatory. Wireless Internet access is also not available, however ethernet connections will be available in multimedia room and the control room of the Cline Administration Building (CAB). Visitors can bring long-distance phone cards for use with designated land lines.

Due to PARI's campus design, men and women are housed in separate buildings. Shower facilities are segregated accordingly.  Please recognize that we cannot accommodate males and females in the same housing areas due to segregated showers. We are sorry for any inconvenience, this policy applies to everyone.

December weather can vary. Generally, night time temperatures are around 30 degress, daytime highs are usually above 40. Please plan to dress accordingly. Late night observers should wear layers and be prepared for cold conditions.

Snacks and coffee will be provided between meals in the campus cafeteria and other common areas.

PARI's campus is very dark at night. Please make sure you bring your own flashlight, and spare batteries.

Amenities:
Hot showers
Meals provided
PARI Research Library Access

Housing Accommodations:
On campus housing:
PARI's on campus housing is used by astronomers and students all year long. While staying on campus, you will be assigned quarters. Expect to have a roommate. If you have a preference, please list that person's name on the registration form. Please recognize that we cannot accommodate males and females in the same housing areas due to segregated showers. We are sorry for any inconvenience, this policy applies to everyone.

On campus housing ($50.00) provides:
A single bed
Pillow, sheets, and blanket
Towels
Alarm clock, desk, dresser

Off Campus Accommodations:
For those who do not wish to stay at PARI You may stay at the Hampton Inn Brevard about 35 minutes away.  Recommended accommodations link: Hampton Inn (Brevard).

Local attractions are located in nearby Brevard, Asheville, Highlands and Cashiers, North Carolina and on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

PARI Star Party Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)