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The Mountain Institute Observing FAQ

Site Information
Accomodations
Observing Conditions and Rules?

Site Information

Who, What, Where?

Spruce Knob is one of the premier dark sky sites in the East! The Mountain Institute provides an outstanding observing location as well as civilized amenities like hot showers, and internet access. NOVAC has arranged to use TMI for the new moon weekends. See the schedule for details.

Directions available.

As guests of The Mountain Institute, NOVAC members must abide by all rules and instructions that TMI staff may provide regarding the use of the site. Failure to do so will be grounds for TMI observing priviledges being revoked.

For GPS users:
TMI Entrance N 38° 40' 25'' W 079° 34' 11''
Center of Main Observing Field N 38° 40' 36'' W 079° 34' 02''
Center of CCD Imaging Area N 38° 41' 10'' W 079° 33' 45''
RV Area / Yurts N 38° 41' 00'' W 079° 33' 26''

Updated March 30, 2005 1:46pm EST

Aside from astronomy, what else is there to do?

  • Explore nearby Spruce Knob Lake which offers boating, fishing and hiking.
  • Enjoy the scenery, bring your camera and binoculars.
  • There are plenty of trails for hiking and biking.
  • Check out the Monongahela National Forest.
  • We plan to have internet connectivity, so you won't be entirely cut off from the world.

Will there be power available to recharge batteries?

Portable batteries may be recharged using power outlets located in the dorms.

Accomodations

Can I camp and stay with my equipment?

Absolutely. Camping will be on the observing field. The field is quite large, so you'll also be able to park right on the field. See site map.

Note that "camping activites" such as open fires are prohibited, as are any white-light sources on or near the observing area.

Updated April 12, 2005 7:11pm EST

How do I make reservations?

NOVAC members may reserve a limited number of dorm bunks or camping spaces free of charge. Once booked up, additional accommodations can still be reserved at $25 per night for a bunk in the dorm or $15 per night for camping. These reservations are first-come, first-served and you may reserve space up to 60 days in advance. You may bring a guest, but they will pay at the normal rates.

Can I have a campfire and cook my own meals?

You may not have a campfire nor produce smoke which would interfere with anyone's observing and fire poses additional safety concerns.

You may, however use self contained stoves and chemical heating packs. You may also use the kitchen at TMI to prepare meals when it is not being used by TMI staff.

How do I get from the dorms to observing and meals?

Dorms are located in easy walking distance to both the dining area and the observing field. See Map

Is there any phone or Internet connectivity?

  • Due to the site's remoteness and location within the National Radio Quiet Zone (NRQZ), cell phone service is unavailable. TMI has a phone and you may use it occasionally at their discretion.
  • There is Internet service available at the Earth Shelter, so you can access the web and your email. When others are waiting to use the computer you must limit your sessions to 15 minutes.

Observing Conditions and Rules

Can I have any light on the field?

Since it is very easy to lose one's dark adaptation there will be no glow sticks nor any source of white light. Only low powered, red-filtered flashlights are permitted in the observing areas.

Will there be power on the field?

No.


What will the temperature be like?

The observing field is 4300 feet above sea level. Expect a wide range of temperatures. During the day temperatures can range from 50 degrees to 80 degrees and temperatures at night can get down to the 40s even in June. Here's a weather page for Spruce Knob.

Dress warmly and in layers.