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[stargazer]

Ok Guys I dont know if this is going already but Im asking what you guys wear in this fridget cold weather.

I came accross some GREAT gear that has kept me VERY warm and is very comfy to wear. Under my Carhartt Coat and Bibs I wear some Polyproplyne longjohns. Very comfy and easy to move in. So far they are one of the best buys since I got the Carhartts. These things are warm and soft. I wore them the night I went to observe through the 18" and NEVER felt the cold. Now remember I freeze all the time so for me to find something like this it was great. I think I paid 26$ for the top and 20$ for the pants. But well worth the cost.

Just my input to help keep you guys warm on these fun chilly nights.

Becky

[Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe]

I don't remember my last prolonged observation session in the freezing cold, but it's well over a decade. Now... I'll bundle up for a special or rare occurance and observe the event, but all night at the eyepiece in freezing temperatures is an activitiy from my youth.

I recall as a teenager, wrapping myself up in the middle of bitter winter, with temps below zero, and spending time in my backyard with my trusty 60mm refractor. The winter skies are great for target hunting. My dad thought I was nuts, perhaps so, but they were such fond memories.

I admire those who spend observational sessions in bone chilling temps.

[gettr]

The polyprop stuff is very good.... thin too. I used to wear this stuff skiing. I had to quit, it was just too warm.

Dennis

[susan2]

What about the hands? I'm finding it darn near impossible to go out at night and stargaze just because my hands get SO cold. Any advise?

[Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe]

Susan,

How nice to see you chime in. Thanks for your first post and joining the Chicago Astronomer family.

How are you watching the skies...telescope, binoculars or naked eye?

The palm sized heat packs that are activated are cool and I think Becky uses them often. Also, the mittens that fold up to expose the fingers are used quite often. In that scenario, one can wear fingered gloves underneath. I have this cushion that has Styrofoam pellets in it. That thing is quite remarkable, as it reflects the heat right back at you! I have placed it in my jacket and remained nice and toasty. And ergo...warm torso equals warm extremities.

I remember watching this movie on television decades ago, where a young girl was asked why she had eggs in her mittens. She said that her Mom hard boils them and the eggs release the heat slowly.

Then you can eat them!... ;D

[susan2]

Hi Joe,
Those are great ideas! Thanks. I particularly like the pellets. I actually have one, but never thought to use it for my star gazing nights. About 2 months ago, I was given my first scope (B-day present), an Orion XJ8i. But because I'm currently in college, full time Mom, as well as work, I have only been able to use it about 12x. I have been able to see some planets, nebulas, clusters...quite well. This summer, I plan to take it to South Dakota on vacation where I can dedicate more time to this fascinating hobby!
Thanks again and Great Web-site!!
Susan