A great way to enjoy the unique beauty of the dark skies at Oregon Star Party (OSP) is to view bright deep sky objects, colorful double stars, and planets through a telescope.  The objects listed are easily visible in most telescopes, and many can also be seen in binoculars.

To receive the Beginner List observer pin you must observe and record at least 20 of the objects listed below while you are here at OSP.  As an added reference each object’s page number in the popular Sky and Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas (PSA) is listed as well.

Most of the objects listed below are visible between sunset and midnight during the star party.  All are visible before astronomical dawn.  The beginner list award is intended for visual observing.  Go-to telescopes and image enhancers (photography) are not permitted for the Beginner List award.  You may get assistance in locating objects on star charts or in the sky, but you must locate them yourself with your telescope.  Looking through a telescope, in which someone else has sighted the object for you, is not acceptable.  Object sketches are a bonus but they are not necessary if you provide a good description of each object.

When finished, bring your record of observations to the Observing Program table next to the Information Tent to receive your pin.  Please check the information tent for updates on when the Observing Program table will be staffed, and where it is going to be for the next session.  Typically it will be manned later in the afternoon.

2022 Beginner List