Oregon Star Party Observing Award Programs

We want to encourage observing at the Oregon Star Party, so we have developed 3 different observing programs each year, each with its award certificate and pin. Anyone registered for the star party is eligible to participate.

The level one program has many of the brighter objects visible under the very dark skies at Indian Trail Springs. No one should be afraid to try this program, most of the objects can be found with binoculars.

The level Two program will challenge an experienced observer. The observer should be able to read star charts and have a scope capable of detecting 11th magnitude galaxies. Advance preparation before OSP is recommended.

The Level Three program should only be attempted by those who wish an extreme observing challenge. If you are not familiar with the names Hickson, Abell or Seyfert, you should probably attempt one of the other lists. You must prepare in advance for this list or you will not be able to complete it.

Those participants who successfully complete a program will receive a Certificate showing their accomplishment. If you wish, you may purchase a beautiful “OSP Observer” lapel pin once you have completed a list. Each of the programs has its own pin in a different color. The lapel pins are available only for those who complete a program and will not be sold to the public. There are three different colored pins, one for each of the programs and a different pin shape each year.

Your name will also be displayed on the Oregon Star Party webpage as an Observing award winner.

Rules and Regulations

All observations must be made at Indian Trail Springs during the week of the Oregon Star Party. You may carry over your observations to the next year if you did not complete them in one year, but they must be made at ITS during OSP.

You must create a record of your observation and it must include,

Date of Observation

Time of observation

Sky condition (Seeing)

Type of instrument used

Magnification used while observing the object

A brief description of the object

Proof of OSP registration

A drawing of the object is fine. You may keep this record in diary form or any form that includes the information required. The record of your observations will be checked and if all is in order, your Certificate will be awarded and you will be allowed to purchase the pin if you so desire. Your records will be returned.

You can have the records of your observations checked at the Information Tent, daily, Starting Thursday, between 1:00pm and 4:00pm. All observations must be completed by Saturday Night. We will be available on Sunday from 10:00am till Noon to check your records and award certificates.