Thank you for your interest in joining us for a night under the stars! Here’s what you need to know before you come out to an event.
General
What is BNLO?
The Black Nugget Lake Observatory is RASC Edmonton Centre’s dark-sky observing site, located within the Black Nugget Lake Campground. It includes our Observatory, a Visitor Centre, and an outdoor observing field — all chosen for their distance from city light pollution.
Are children welcome? What about minors?
Yes — children are always welcome, but they must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian at all times. The observing field is dark, though, so small children are more likely to trip, wander off, or accidentally bump into expensive equipment. Please keep a close eye on your kids at all times. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian at all times.
Are pets welcome?
No, animals other than licensed service animals are not permitted on the observing site, including inside the Visitor Centre.
Will alcohol be available, or can I bring my own?
No. Alcohol, smoking, and vaping are prohibited inside the Observatory compound, the Visitor Centre, and the toilet facilities.
Is there a toilet?
Yes — there are two outhouse toilets near by.
What if I want to stay later than the posted end time?
This may be possible, but requires making arrangements with one of our event operators before the event wraps up.
What if I experience harassment or feel unsafe?
Please tell an operator right away. Harassment or abuse of any kind, from guests or operators, is not tolerated.
Lights & Dark Adaptation
Why all the fuss about lights?
Our eyes take up to 20–30 minutes to fully adapt to darkness, and that adaptation is what lets us see faint stars, nebulae, and galaxies. A single burst of white light — even from a phone screen or camera flash — can undo that adaptation for everyone on the field, not just you.
What kind of light should I bring?
A red flashlight is ideal and is the only light you should use once it’s dark. Please avoid using a red headlamp, it’s great for individual use, but too bright in groups — as it can shine light directly into other people’s eyes. Please avoid white lights entirely after dusk unless there’s a genuine emergency. Even the screen of your phone is far too bright.
Can I take photos?
Please don’t use flash photography — it disrupts night vision and astrophotography in progress for everyone nearby. Non-flash photos are OK, but phone screens will disrupt night vision so ask those around you if they’re OK with you turning your phone screen on before you do so, and warn them before you turn your screen on.
What about my car?
If you arrive when it’s dark, a volunteer at the North Gate will direct you where and how to park to minimize white light trespass. When you leave, if you can, use just your daytime running lights until you exit the gate, then turn on your headlights.
Can I bring a laser pointer to point out constellations?
No. Green laser pointers are not permitted on the observing site at any time.
Equipment & Etiquette
Can I touch the telescopes?
Please ask an operator first. Telescopes may be in mid-adjustment, aimed at a target, or simply delicate. Even a light touch can shift a careful setup.
Can I wear bug spray or sunscreen?
Yes, but please don’t use aerosol sprays on the observing field — even a single drop can permanently damage telescope optics. Lotions and roll-on repellents are fine.
Is smoking allowed anywhere on site?
Smoking is not permitted inside the Observatory compound or the toilets. If you do smoke elsewhere, please do so well away from other guests, both out of courtesy and because smoke can damage optics — and please don’t use a lighter near the observing field, as the flame can ruin everyone’s night vision.
Visitor Centre
What’s the Visitor Centre, and can I go inside?
It’s a heated indoor space where guests can warm up during the event. It has a maximum capacity of 15 people at a time.
Can I bring food or drinks?
Light snacks are fine in the Visitor Centre — the microwave can be used to reheat food (please leave it clean for the next person), but no cooking is permitted. Food and drink are not allowed inside the Observatory itself.
Is it tidy / can I leave my stuff there?
Please pack out anything you bring in, and keep the space clean. It’s a shared space for everyone’s comfort.
Do I need to take my boots off?
Clean footwear is fine on the vinyl flooring. If your shoes are dirty or snowy, please leave them on the entrance mat.
Getting There
Where exactly is BNLO?
Travel southeast on Highway 14 to about 10 km past Tofield, then south on Range Road 182 for about 11 km to Township Road 492. Additional information and parking directions will be provided by the volunteer gate attendant upon arrival. Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/m4VjMZdEg5g4EbCX8
What should I wear/bring?
Dress warmly — Alberta nights get cold even in summer. A red flashlight, layered clothing, and a lawn chair are all good ideas. Closed, comfortable footwear is recommended for the gravel/grass observing field.
Questions not covered here? Reach out to us at bnlo@edmontonrasc.com and we’ll be happy to help before your visit.