Camping gear and entertainement material advice for GSSP with kids

[Muriel Dulieu Holzer]

I am going to REI soon to get gear for GSSP. I would love some advice, recommendations, comments, personal stories, whatever you are thinking of ...

1. Tent: Coleman has a tent with dark room technology. It blocks 90% of sunlight, I thought it would be good to block Ipad light inside the tent at night. I am not sure if I should get the 4 people tent or 6 people. I feel like the 4 people might be easier to mount and more convenient for future short trips but then one day I might want to go with all my kids and will need the 6 people one. Any input appreciated. The reviews says the Coleman tent is a bit flimsy though and quality control is not great.

Wirecutter recommends the Mineral King 3 tent with footprint https://www.rei.com/product/244686/mountain-hardwear-mineral-king-3-tent-with-footprint?irclickid=yaFVoCwY9xycWDOV9swICziMUksVJqWEE0G%3Ayg0&irgwc=1&cm_mmc=aff_IM-_-197432-_--_-
It looks like a better tent but then the GSSP website said that it might be windy out there.

Do I need a stronger tent against the wind like the REI base camp 4 https://www.rei.com/product/227740/rei-co-op-base-camp-4-tent?irclickid=yaFVoCwY9xycWDOV9swICziMUksVJM2UE0G%3Ayg0&irgwc=1&cm_mmc=aff_IM-_-197432-_--_-

Am I overthinking this? What would you get? What would be the most agreeable and convenient tent for this trip?

2. Most comfortable sleeping pad?
Wirecutter recommends the Therm-a-rest luxury sleeping pad.

https://www.rei.com/product/241041/therm-a-rest-luxurymap-sleeping-pad?irclickid=yaFVoCwY9xycWDOV9swICziMUksVJJ0kE0G%3Ayg0&irgwc=1&cm_mmc=aff_IM-_-197432-_--_-

3. Ok don't laugh but anyone was experience with this stargaze rocking chair?
Looks comfortable to look up with binoculars.
https://www.rei.com/product/242353/nemo-stargaze-reclining-camp-chair?sku=2423530001&store=12&CAWELAID=120217890019570809&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=113169021258&CATCI=pla-2302090472805&cm_mmc=PLA_Google%7C21700000001700551_2423530001%7C2302090472805%7Cbrand_flag%7C11437667233&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=11437667233&gclid=CjwKCAjw6s7CBhACEiwAuHQckjghVJG5IeofEtYWkuaoVZ517n_9V8jXfY0lco8xD_SbRMRBoWlLsxoC5toQAvD_BwE

4. Should I get a cover for my 10" Dob so I can leave it outside? Any specific cover you recommend?

5. Sleeping bags recommendations? Being comfortable is my number 1 consideration. (Why camping then you will ask...good point).

6. I got a solar charger and a hard shell cooler. Planning on buying a mini stove thingy. Anything else I should get that I am not thinking of?

7. Welcoming ideas for general kids entertainment at GSSP and astronomical education. Kids are 6, 8 and 9 years old with good knowledge of astronomy already. (I am only taking my oldest on this trip though but the younger ones are scheduled for future astronomy camping trips as well). I am planning to bring kites, bathing suits and card games + books. Any other recommendations?

8. Any advice for kids (and adults) astronomy podcasts and/or audiobooks for the road. We have the "Astronomy for dummies" audiobook and kids like to listen to the "The end of the universe" song by ASAP and "the planet song" and "the dwarf planet song" by hopscotch already. Looking to broaden our repertoire for the 5 hours drive.

Thank you!

-Muriel

[Akarsh Simha]

If you don’t get a tent that has some sort of reflective thing, you should get aluminet / shade cloth to drape over. Aluminet is a life saver.

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[John Pierce]

there's several outfits that make tents for Burning Man that are bright chrome on the outside and have a double wall insulation sort of like bubblewrap.   Burners party all night, and sleep all day in the desert sun.

like, https://shiftpod.com/collections/all-products?srsltid=AfmBOorjnr6boBpi1lAKYBtLEua3psQtlB4XxNph8CjFYBTQyr8dhghz

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[Alan Agrawal]



GSSP as a sublime event, you’re gonna have a lot of fun.

 Some thoughts:

Be wary of getting a blackout tent. From what I’ve read most of those don’t breathe very well and can get very stuffy. The thing that John posted looks very very good.

You definitely will want to cover your Dob.  I like the Telegizmos ( non 365) for my 24 inch quite a bit, and they make many sizes, but there are lots of other good options.

GSSP can get very cold at night. I would recommend getting a high-quality sleeping bag that’s rated at least 10 to 20° colder than the lowest expected nighttime temperature.

I like putting a thermarest under  my sleeping bag.  Even more comfortable than that is to put a second sleeping bag underneath the thermarest.  If it gets very cold for your kids, a hot water bottle in their sleeping bags in advance  before they go to sleep is very helpful.

The chair you listed is very expensive. For stargazing a lot of people like folding zero gravity chairs, those were pretty well, and most are less expensive.

The most fun Astro activity I have done with kids aside from looking through the telescope is “earth as a peppercorn”.  I did it years ago from my house one year with a big group of kids and it blew the kids minds as well as mine.  You can’t believe how far it is from the outer planets back to earth.

Best,

Alan

[Craig H]

Costco recently had a chair very similar to this for around $90-100 if I recall correctly. You may want to try that?

On Jun 19, 2025, at 1:10 PM, 'Alan Agrawal' via The Astronomy Connection (TAC) <sf-ba...@googlegroups.com> wrote:



GSSP as a sublime event, you’re gonna have a lot of fun.

 Some thoughts:

Be wary of getting a blackout tent. From what I’ve read most of those don’t breathe very well and can get very stuffy. The thing that John posted looks very very good.

You definitely will want to cover your Dob.  I like the Telegizmos ( non 365) for my 24 inch quite a bit, and they make many sizes, but there are lots of other good options.

GSSP can get very cold at night. I would recommend getting a high-quality sleeping bag that’s rated at least 10 to 20° colder than the lowest expected nighttime temperature.

I like putting a thermarest under  my sleeping bag.  Even more comfortable than that is to put a second sleeping bag underneath the thermarest.  If it gets very cold for your kids, a hot water bottle in their sleeping bags in advance  before they go to sleep is very helpful.

The chair you listed is very expensive. For stargazing a lot of people like folding zero gravity chairs, those were pretty well, and most are less expensive.

The most fun Astro activity I have done with kids aside from looking through the telescope is “earth as a peppercorn”.  I did it years ago from my house one year with a big group of kids and it blew the kids minds as well as mine.  You can’t believe how far it is from the outer planets back to earth.

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[Jamie Dillon, DDK]

Muriel, you're going to have a lot of fun.

2. Most comfortable sleeping pad? 

Thermarest, you got it. Everything they make is comfortable and durable. I have and like the same pad I bought in the mid-70's, swear.

4. Should I get a cover for my 10" Dob so I can leave it outside? Any specific cover you recommend?

Very importantly, keep your mirror covered during the day. Too many stories of people burning their the insides of their scopes with the sunlight.

When I'm starcamping and going to bed, I always aim the scope to the west, even with the mirror and the scope severally covered. And in the afternoon it gets turned and headed east. Hey, it's the Sun.

[John Pierce]

I always aimed mine to the North, and bungie corded it to a counterweight so the wind wouldn't push it around.

 big fan of AstroSystems scope covers, especially for large scopes like Obsessions.  https://www.astrosystems.biz/covers.htm

[Mitchell Koerner]

As for (1) - I recently bought the Coleman Sundome Dark Room 4 person and LOVE it. I chose the Sundome over the Skydome because it's lighter and more packable and I prefer the normal poles over the heavy thick poles. I also feel that the sundome design is a better tested standard tent design which I'm confident breathes well and generally works. That isn't to say the skydome can't do the same, I'm just more comfortable with what I know.

IDK what this is about the dark tents not breathing. It seems to breathe fine to me. There are huge ventilation sections along both sides. The floorspace is roughly that of a king sized bed. IMO a 4 person tent is perfect for 2 people plus an optional pet. The dark stuff really did make a massive improvement! It's not pitch black in the day or anything but it sure is WAY darker than a normal tent.

(2) I've slept on an old version of the therm-a-rest luxury style pads. 9/10 would recommend! They pack up small enough and are easier to work with than an air mattress (and IMO more comfortable). I reserve the full 10/10 for a dedicated 4" or 6" foam mattress plus a thermal barrier underneath, but that does NOT pack up well.

(3) Looks wild and exciting, but I have not used one.

(4) Cover or just put it back in the car when you're done for the night. No need to seatbelt it overnight. Your dob is pretty quick to set up after all. I don't have any cover recommendations personally

(5) If comfort is your goal, make sure it's wide enough for you to sleep in your normal position. If you're a back sleeper, then basically anything will work, but if you sleep on your side or stomach, you need to ensure there is enough room for your knees. For backpacking, I'm a fan of a down quilt or the mont-bell down hugger. But you're paying a lot of $$$ to keep those lightweight and for car camping who cares. I'd say go ahead and just bring a bunch of blankets instead for now. It's cheaper than a sleeping bag and just as warm as long as you can fit them in your car. Sleeping bags are a good option if space or weight is at a premium.

(6) no opinion

(7) no opinion other than have a big enough tent for kids. They like to spend time in the tent for some reason.

(8) no opinion

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[Aris Pope]

I brought my daughters last year. A pair of was good for keeping the kids entertained during the day. During the day we went to Burney. There are various options for food, we had Mexican food and it was good. There is also a Safeway there which was nice for us to restock our fridge. We went to Burney Falls but it was closed. This year it's open , so that would be a good option as well.

Aris

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[Aris Pope]

*pair of binoculars

Aris

[Muriel Dulieu]

Akarsh,

What do you do with the aluminet?

You just drape it above the tent and stake it? 

Why 70%? 

It is too late to order directly from the website but I see some on amazon that are 80%, 90%, 95%!

Answering other comments:

The reflective tent looks awesome but unfortunately too late to order for next week. 

Good point that kids usually like big tents, my kids are begging me to get the biggest tent possible. 

Going through the reviews of the dark shade technology for the Coleman tent, the reviews are mixed indeed.

I am looking at the kelty 6 person tents recommended by wirecutter now: https://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Wireless-Freestanding-Camping-Person/dp/B082P6RTRW?th=1&psc=1&tag-thewire06-20

Looks like something my kids would like. 

Still going through all the recommendations, thank you all!

I can’t wait! 

-Muriel

Sent from my iPhone

On Jun 19, 2025, at 12:16 PM, Akarsh Simha <akars...@gmail.com> wrote:



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[James Webster]

Aluminet is a lifesaver in the heat.

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[Moshen Chan]

I have two of the Nemo Stargaze reclining chairs and highly recommend them.

I haven't tried the Coleman "Dark Room" tents, but can recommend the Coleman 4 or 6 person "instant" tents. Mine have survived many years of high winds during Burning Man dust storms, as long as the guy lines are staked. The 6 person is nice because you can stand up in it.

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[Ted Hauter]

This may be a bit out there but the last time I went I threw down a blow up mattress and called it good.

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[Aris Pope]

I'm with you Ted, I threw a blow up mattress in the back of my Tundra. I also had the ground tent at the backup and changing tent. 

One thing I did forget to mention was my bathroom tent and my camp shower set up. Really made a difference.

Aris

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[Alan Agrawal]

If Moshen likes it enough to have two of these Stargaze chairs I retract my suggestion that they seemed pricey - his advice is golden!  

Alan

PS - and good to hear someone liked one of the Coleman dark room tents.

On Jun 19, 2025, at 9:32 PM, Moshen Chan <mosh...@gmail.com> wrote:



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[Ted Hauter]

😆 That's calling it better than good 👍  nice Aris!

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[Richard Ozer]

More important than the actual tent design is the use of heavy duty
stakes; no matter which tent you bring. Nail stakes are best.

[Aris Pope]

Here's a link to alternate shower that's made by the same brand. Only thing I could find that I think could arrive before GSSP if anyone is interested.

https://a.co/d/chYQoQl

This is the actual one that I bought last year and used:

https://drprepare.com/products/5-gallons-portable-camping-shower-kit-with-pump

Aris

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[John Pierce]

Hands down, the best purchase I made for GSSP, CalStar, etc, was my Escape 21 trailer.

double insulated, white fiberglass on the outside, deep tinted double pane windows, 5200 watt*hours of lithium, 360W solar panel, with a flush toilet, hot shower, queen sized bed, and ventilation fan, and a DC compressor fridge, I can go at least a week of daily showers before needing a dumping station and water tank refill.   it stays adequately cool inside until noon or later

this is setting up at Calstar in 2018, I've since dumped the diesel F250 in favor of a Expedition SUV, the trailer is only 4500 lbs max loaded.

[Alex]

I've been using that Dark Room 6p at the past GSSP, and I would recommend it. Don't bother trying the 4p. As "6p" and "4p" is only about the tight pack floor sleeping capacity. The 6p feels about right for a single person living :) (been tweaking my mobile app, comfortably working on a laptop in it at night, had a cot and all my gear neatly arranged inside, could cook in the vestibule or store large gear covered from dust and sun). I can set it up and tear it down singlehanded no problems. The primary benefit of it though is that you can sleep longer in the morning after the full night shift. As it blocks the sunlight and heat much longer than a typical nylon tent. No issues with high winds. Just tie it down correctly (the should at GSSP is stubborn and treacherous, so thick hammerable stakes are a must have, add pliers to drive them out as well.

Aluminet is a fantastic thing! I've got a really large piece recently and it works wonders in most any environment (survived hail and torrential rain unscathed once). Using it over my ~25 years-old large geodesic pentagon canopy (not manufactured anymore) for the volume (6p Dark-room fits under it perfectly). Add enough cordage to set it up well.

Skip sleeping pad. Get a folding cot! Fits the same storage space. More storage under it when set up in the tent, and you can take it out to enjoy stars any moment as they are super lightweight, sturdy, and can be set on dirt ground.

Can't vouch for that stargazing chair, but I love my 20 years old auto reclining camping chair (not manufactured anymore, but there are mimics with a removable footrest). Good for resting between sessions with binocs or AstroScan. Get that stargazing one and let us know if you like it!

For the 10" scope cover you can consider cheap changing/toilet/shower self opening tents. It's perfect for quick cover, ultra light and compact. Just needs some staking/roping in the desert winds.

The SB is a personal preference. I'm using 20F rated mummy with multiple ventilation options. Often in the hammock.

Get a large tarp. GSSP ground is dusty. A blue HD poly tarp from Costco is cheap and good enough (just a bit noisy if not stretched well). I'm always bringing 12x16 and staking it down at 6 points (sometimes folding in half).

[Alex]

*) (the should at GSSP is stubborn and treacherous...  is about the "the ground" autocorrected.

Also, REI is about 80% more expensive than Amazon. So unless you are a member or willing to sponsor their showroom (I am and I do from time to time), better shop on Amazon.

[John Pierce]

On Thu, Jun 19, 2025 at 11:32 PM Alex <alex.k...@gmail.com> wrote:

*) (the should at GSSP is stubborn and treacherous...  is about the "the ground" autocorrected.

Also, REI is about 80% more expensive than Amazon. So unless you are a member or willing to sponsor their showroom (I am and I do from time to time), better shop on Amazon.

OTOH, REI tends to have high quality stuff, whereas Amazon is a kitchen sink of junk with a few gems mixed in.   For instance, I have some REI brand folding camp chairs that have held up for many years, and are very comfortable, vs the junkstore grade folders that are left in a dumpster within a year.    oh yeah, we are members, it doesn't cost anything.      And, their annual 'outlet' sales where they clear out returned and old stock can lead to some killer deals.

[Alex]

Most of that was true in the not so distant past (that's why my chair, geodome, and few other gems are the keepers!). Today, China is making almost everything for major brands. Innovations (gems) are rare and often built from China parts which are in fact already on par with what you could find being a "gem" just a decade back. The old saying that you get what you paid for does not work anymore, as many reputable makers are cutting edges too aggressively nowadays. Add to that hype-driven "innovators", like that Nemo above.

 

[Moshen Chan]

They are pricey but I bought one years back at REI's yearly sale. My partner ended up using it all the time, she preferred it over the other camping chairs even when not reclining. So I had to get another at the next sale. They pack down small and light so they end up getting used a lot. You're welcome to try mine :)

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[Mark Wagner]

Hi Muriel,

Lots of good advice so far.  If it hasn't been mentioned yet for entertainment, a day trip to Mount Lassen National Park is excellent for families.  Spectacular and geologically interesting place.  Not to mention it is the site where GSSP actual traces back to in the mid-late 90's.

[Alex]

For the entertainment around the ranch better check online. I saw many prominent "attractions" there often closed for events and/or maintenance.

Perhaps, get a kite or two to have fun right on the field?

[Alex]

Found the compact cot I bought 3 years back (about 40 nights on it, no issues and in fact more comfy and more versatile than my 15 y/o Thermarest 4" Luxury) for $30 shipped. https://www.temu.com/ultralight-compact-camping-cot-pro---lock-structure-for-30s-setup-30-inch-wide-surface-support-350lbs-folding-backpacking-cot--bag-for-outdoor-g-601099917817663.html 

The model has smooth "legs" shape (contrary to 95% of other models) which is safe on any tent floor an in the car (over folded/reclined seats). The in-car benefit is the low profile so you can level it without sacrificing head room too much.

Tariffs are helpfully doubled the price of course...

[Peter Santangeli]

The regular afternoon winds make for great (though intense at times) kite flying. Definitely can be fun for stunt kites.

Just be careful not to put telescopes at risk.

On Fri, Jun 20, 2025 at 9:31 AM Alex <alex.k...@gmail.com> wrote:

For the entertainment around the ranch better check online. I saw many prominent "attractions" there often closed for events and/or maintenance.

Perhaps, get a kite or two to have fun right on the field?

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[Thomas Taylor]

I upgraded my camping gear in the spring of 2022 and went with the REI Base Camp 4.  Here is my review written back then.  Although the tent is on the large size, it's a 1-person set-up.  

Thomas

[Muriel Dulieu Holzer]

Just a few more questions:

1. Aluminet: how do you use it with your tent? Do you just drape it on top and stake it (with heavy duty nail stakes recommended by RO)?

   Is it necessary with the Coleman dark shade tent? It says that the fabric blocks heat already?

   I was looking at the EZ-Up canopy, it does not fly away? Do you put an aluminet thing on top? How do you attach it?

   Do you get an aluminet for the car as well?

2. Alex, did you have the sundome or skydome Coleman dark shade tent?

   Mitchell seems to prefer the sundome, it does look more breathable.

3. For those of you using a blow up mattress, how do you blow it up? Mine required to be plugged into electricity.

   I got a solar power station, not sure if it will generate enough electricity.

Taking notes of everything else: kites, Lassen, burney falls, telegizmos telescope cover, etc

Thank you all!

- Muriel

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[Mitchell Koerner]

A couple more things I'll note as you seem to be considering both the sundome and skydome.

I had trouble finding packed sizes when looking these up, so for reference - my 4 person darkroom sundome weighs just over 10lb (bag and accessories included) and measures roughly 8" x 9" x 25" packed up.

A couple of downsides to the sundome design:

The fiberglass poles feel flimsy to me. I suspect they will do OK, but I feel the need to baby them.

On a related note, the corners of the tent have a tendency to come inwards until the tent is staked down. This feels like it's due to the very bendy nature of the poles.

The floor material is not made of the same dark stuff (I suspect this is true of both designs), so most of the light that does enter is inconveniently through the bottom 6" of the walls right next to your head since the bathtub floor comes slightly up the walls.

I still overall like my tent, but wanted to share the downsides since this looks like it's still on your list. I have no idea if the skydome fixes the pole problems or what unique issues it has.

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[John Pierce]

On Fri, Jun 20, 2025 at 1:02 PM Muriel Dulieu Holzer <mdu...@gmail.com> wrote:

...

3. For those of you using a blow up mattress, how do you blow it up? Mine required to be plugged into electricity.

   I got a solar power station, not sure if it will generate enough electricity.

before I got my first camp trailer (a Casita), i had a queen sized blowup bed that I setup in a big REI KingDome tent...   it had a 120V inflator built in, I used a 12V20AH AGM battery which I also used for powering a telescope, with a 400W inverter (the air pump was under 200W).  worked great.   I'd recharge the battery during the day with a solar panel charger after a few nights of telescope use.

this was my camp at GSSP 2013...

the south sun facing side...

the silver side out tarps were sloped to divert the westerly afternoon winds over the top.

[Arvind K]

Mattress wise I found that I strongly disliked the wobble.

I currently prefer a high quality sleeping. I particularly like this one for compactness and comfort: 

https://www.rei.com/product/175625/therm-a-rest-prolite-apex-sleeping-pad?redirect-pup=false it's not available now but it's a 2" (I didn't like thicker ones as they were wobbly). 

Before I got my current sleeping pad I used a foam bed.  I still have it and like it but it's bulky so it seems very little use. 

Overall, given the subjective nature (and availability), I'd suggest you try them at a nearby rei and spend a few mins. Quick on/off likely won't let you realize how good/bad a sleeping platform is.

All the best! Have fun at GSSP.

To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/sf-bay-tac/CAMZ69twDHDpoNivZaZ1-jk59jZ4SZdJ2i3VPuE9wwZkBWwVF7Q%40mail.gmail.com.

[Arvind K]

Sorry typing from phone.

high quality sleeping -> high quality sleeping pad.

[John Pierce]

On Fri, Jun 20, 2025 at 1:20 PM John Pierce <jhn.p...@gmail.com> wrote:

On Fri, Jun 20, 2025 at 1:02 PM Muriel Dulieu Holzer <mdu...@gmail.com> wrote:

...

3. For those of you using a blow up mattress, how do you blow it up? Mine required to be plugged into electricity.

   I got a solar power station, not sure if it will generate enough electricity.

before I got my first camp trailer (a Casita), i had a queen sized blowup bed that I setup in a big REI KingDome tent...   it had a 120V inflator built in, I used a 12V20AH AGM battery which I also used for powering a telescope, with a 400W inverter (the air pump was under 200W).  worked great.   I'd recharge the battery during the day with a solar panel charger after a few nights of telescope use.

...

here's that same Kingdome tent without the tarp and popup superstructures, setup at Summit Lake Campground in Mt Lassen...

the rain fly can be extended over the screen room on the right, and there's a 'mud room' at the left end for wet shoes and such.    packed, this tent was like 20 lbs and had shoulder straps like a middling size napsack.

 

[John Pierce]

On Fri, Jun 20, 2025 at 1:24 PM Arvind K <bas...@gmail.com> wrote:

Sorry typing from phone.

high quality sleeping -> high quality sleeping pad.

before we used the air bed, I would use a cot with a relatively thin thermarest pad on top for insulation.    

[Alex]

Muriel. I have this one: https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Carlsbad-Weatherproof-PFAS-Free-Materials/dp/B0D7QFY8Y7 at Costco few years back. Back then it was only 4p and 6p options, no Skydome or Sundome. I believe it was simply "Coleman Dark Room Tent

[Alex]

Update on Coleman on Amazon: Not sure what that PFAS-Free means but it's $180 without it. I guess some toxin like BPA. Research.

[Alex]

Saw the review from Mitchel. My older Dark Room has an opaque floor. Poles are stiff enough to stretch it all well. The package is relatively large and heavy. It also expandable if you don't have time to pack it really neatly as from the store. I'm usually cleaning it at home before prolonged storage. And the repacking tighter.

[Muriel Dulieu]

Reporting on the Nemo stargaze chairs.

There are two models, 1. the nemo stargaze reclining camp chair $250 and 2. the nemo stargaze Evo-X folding reclining camp chair $180:

1. Takes more time to put together and take apart, you have to stick 6 individual feet into the main frame then attach the fabric. The mesh fabric feels like it would be comfortable when it is really hot but when is it that hot at night? The edge of the seat has a bump that cuts in the middle of the thigh which I found uncomfortable when you sit on it. 

2. Everything is attached together and you just open the chair in one movement. To fold, pull a string to unlock the mechanism and just fold. 

The seat feels a bit V-shaped like when you sit on a swing designed for little kids but it is not too bad. I bought it and it is comfortable to lean back and look at the constellations right above your head. Not so convenient to get in and out if you want to go back and forth between your binoculars and your telescope but overall I am very happy with it. 

-Muriel

On Jun 20, 2025, at 5:37 PM, Alex <alex.k...@gmail.com> wrote:



Saw the review from Mitchel. My older Dark Room has an opaque floor. Poles are stiff enough to stretch it all well. The package is relatively large and heavy. It also expandable if you don't have time to pack it really neatly as from the store. I'm usually cleaning it at home before prolonged storage. And the repacking tighter.

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[Vishal Kasliwal]

Other than when I'm stargazing in the heat,  I hang Aluminet from the eaves of my house on Sun- facing walls from late-spring into mid-fall to cut down on the heat from the sun. 

On Thu, Jun 19, 2025, 16:52 Muriel Dulieu <mdu...@gmail.com> wrote:

Akarsh,

What do you do with the aluminet?

You just drape it above the tent and stake it? 

Why 70%? 

It is too late to order directly from the website but I see some on amazon that are 80%, 90%, 95%!

Answering other comments:

The reflective tent looks awesome but unfortunately too late to order for next week. 

Good point that kids usually like big tents, my kids are begging me to get the biggest tent possible. 

Going through the reviews of the dark shade technology for the Coleman tent, the reviews are mixed indeed.

I am looking at the kelty 6 person tents recommended by wirecutter now: https://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Wireless-Freestanding-Camping-Person/dp/B082P6RTRW?th=1&psc=1&tag-thewire06-20

Looks like something my kids would like. 

Still going through all the recommendations, thank you all!

I can’t wait! 

-Muriel

Sent from my iPhone

On Jun 19, 2025, at 12:16 PM, Akarsh Simha <akars...@gmail.com> wrote:



If you don’t get a tent that has some sort of reflective thing, you should get aluminet / shade cloth to drape over. Aluminet is a life saver.

On Thu, Jun 19, 2025 at 12:13 Muriel Dulieu Holzer <mdu...@gmail.com> wrote:

I am going to REI soon to get gear for GSSP. I would love some advice, recommendations, comments, personal stories, whatever you are thinking of ...

1. Tent: Coleman has a tent with dark room technology. It blocks 90% of sunlight, I thought it would be good to block Ipad light inside the tent at night. I am not sure if I should get the 4 people tent or 6 people. I feel like the 4 people might be easier to mount and more convenient for future short trips but then one day I might want to go with all my kids and will need the 6 people one. Any input appreciated. The reviews says the Coleman tent is a bit flimsy though and quality control is not great.

Wirecutter recommends the Mineral King 3 tent with footprint https://www.rei.com/product/244686/mountain-hardwear-mineral-king-3-tent-with-footprint?irclickid=yaFVoCwY9xycWDOV9swICziMUksVJqWEE0G%3Ayg0&irgwc=1&cm_mmc=aff_IM-_-197432-_--_-
It looks like a better tent but then the GSSP website said that it might be windy out there.

Do I need a stronger tent against the wind like the REI base camp 4 https://www.rei.com/product/227740/rei-co-op-base-camp-4-tent?irclickid=yaFVoCwY9xycWDOV9swICziMUksVJM2UE0G%3Ayg0&irgwc=1&cm_mmc=aff_IM-_-197432-_--_-

Am I overthinking this? What would you get? What would be the most agreeable and convenient tent for this trip?

2. Most comfortable sleeping pad?
Wirecutter recommends the Therm-a-rest luxury sleeping pad.

https://www.rei.com/product/241041/therm-a-rest-luxurymap-sleeping-pad?irclickid=yaFVoCwY9xycWDOV9swICziMUksVJJ0kE0G%3Ayg0&irgwc=1&cm_mmc=aff_IM-_-197432-_--_-

3. Ok don't laugh but anyone was experience with this stargaze rocking chair?
Looks comfortable to look up with binoculars.
https://www.rei.com/product/242353/nemo-stargaze-reclining-camp-chair?sku=2423530001&store=12&CAWELAID=120217890019570809&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=113169021258&CATCI=pla-2302090472805&cm_mmc=PLA_Google%7C21700000001700551_2423530001%7C2302090472805%7Cbrand_flag%7C11437667233&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=11437667233&gclid=CjwKCAjw6s7CBhACEiwAuHQckjghVJG5IeofEtYWkuaoVZ517n_9V8jXfY0lco8xD_SbRMRBoWlLsxoC5toQAvD_BwE

4. Should I get a cover for my 10" Dob so I can leave it outside? Any specific cover you recommend?

5. Sleeping bags recommendations? Being comfortable is my number 1 consideration. (Why camping then you will ask...good point).

6. I got a solar charger and a hard shell cooler. Planning on buying a mini stove thingy. Anything else I should get that I am not thinking of?

7. Welcoming ideas for general kids entertainment at GSSP and astronomical education. Kids are 6, 8 and 9 years old with good knowledge of astronomy already. (I am only taking my oldest on this trip though but the younger ones are scheduled for future astronomy camping trips as well). I am planning to bring kites, bathing suits and card games + books. Any other recommendations?

8. Any advice for kids (and adults) astronomy podcasts and/or audiobooks for the road. We have the "Astronomy for dummies" audiobook and kids like to listen to the "The end of the universe" song by ASAP and "the planet song" and "the dwarf planet song" by hopscotch already. Looking to broaden our repertoire for the 5 hours drive.

Thank you!

-Muriel

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[Jeff Crilly]

>
> On Jun 20, 2025, at 1:02 PM, Muriel Dulieu Holzer <mdu...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> I was looking at the EZ-Up canopy, it does not fly away?

I use these long lag bolts for bolting my canopy to the ground.. and also for tie downs for aluminum or tarps.

I also use them on the grommets on the ground tarp. Bolt and washer. A shorter 6 inch screw suffices for the tarp.

It does take a battery powered impact driver to get them in and out.
These have a torx drive on them. But hex or allen bolts are also available.

I haven’t pounded a stake in several years.

The bolts , washers and chain come from Lowe’s. The impact driver came from Home Depot. I did have to cut the chain.. and I have an angle grinder that made quick work of it.

I did see “kits” of these on amazon but I think the bolts were some sort of cast metal which might break easily. These are hardened steel (or something like that).

[John Pierce]

On Mon, Jun 23, 2025 at 1:10 PM Jeff Crilly <jeffc...@gmail.com> wrote:

>
> On Jun 20, 2025, at 1:02 PM, Muriel Dulieu Holzer <mdu...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> I was looking at the EZ-Up canopy, it does not fly away?

I use these long lag bolts for bolting my canopy to the ground.. and also for tie downs for aluminum or tarps.   

I also use them on the grommets on the ground tarp.  Bolt and washer.   A shorter 6 inch screw suffices for the tarp. 

I found the field at GSSP is full of rocks, and broke quite a few lag bolts when I tried this about 10 years ago.   I wasn't even using an impact driver, just a 2 speed drill-driver in low range.

[Jeff Crilly]

I had a similar problem at GSSP.   Didn’t break any bolts — these are tough… but I would just adjust the angle of entry and was able to get the screw in.   This also made me get shorter bolts for the tarp hold-down.   The 12inchers were too long.  6inch for the tarp worked fine.  

On Jun 23, 2025, at 1:20 PM, John Pierce <jhn.p...@gmail.com> wrote:



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[John Pierce]

On Mon, Jun 23, 2025 at 9:24 PM Jeff Crilly <jeffc...@gmail.com> wrote:

I had a similar problem at GSSP.   Didn’t break any bolts — these are tough… but I would just adjust the angle of entry and was able to get the screw in.   This also made me get shorter bolts for the tarp hold-down.   The 12inchers were too long.  6inch for the tarp worked fine.  

ah, i was using some cheap chinese 18" bolts my son-the-Burner had pointed me at, he uses those on the Playa, which is basically sandy clay.

I cut links out of a double loop chain to use as the tie points, that worked really well.  this stuff.

[Alex]

Great stuff! I have tried to drive-in an HD screw anchor once (about 1" shaft expanding to 2"). Impossible to even prime it...
1' "nail" stakes work best for me by finding the correct spot and angle + cordage. Also I keep forgetting my small sledge hammer (still ~10 lbs) to try crushing rocks in the way. I believe they are not super tough as I broke a few on occasion while driving "nails" with a small hatchet in the past.

[Akarsh Simha]

On Thu, Jun 19, 2025 at 4:52 PM Muriel Dulieu <mdu...@gmail.com> wrote:

Akarsh,

What do you do with the aluminet?

You just drape it above the tent and stake it? 

I'm worse. I sleep in my truck so I just drape it over my truck and jam it between the doors. It's a bad idea if you care about the external aesthetics of your vehicle. 

Why 70%? 

It is too late to order directly from the website but I see some on amazon that are 80%, 90%, 95%!

The honest answer is: I don't know. Maybe 80% is actually better. I imagine that "100%" aluminet is a problem because it would be a solid drape and won't let air get through. The important benefit of aluminet over any sheet of reflective mylar is that it will allow air to pass through while reflecting a bunch of light, thereby keeping you cool.

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[Akarsh Simha]

On Fri, Jun 20, 2025 at 5:31 PM Alex <alex.k...@gmail.com> wrote:

Update on Coleman on Amazon: Not sure what that PFAS-Free means but it's $180 without it. I guess some toxin like BPA. Research.

The PFAS story is very depressing and topical as Veritasium made a video on it:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SC2eSujzrUY

He's got a bunch of us paying attention to PFAS now. Depressing but good information.

 

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[Akarsh Simha]

On Fri, Jun 20, 2025 at 1:02 PM Muriel Dulieu Holzer <mdu...@gmail.com> wrote:

Just a few more questions:

1. Aluminet: how do you use it with your tent? Do you just drape it on top and stake it (with heavy duty nail stakes recommended by RO)?

   Is it necessary with the Coleman dark shade tent? It says that the fabric blocks heat already?

   I was looking at the EZ-Up canopy, it does not fly away? Do you put an aluminet thing on top? How do you attach it?

   Do you get an aluminet for the car as well?

Use it as you like. Drape it on the tent, or make an awning out of it. The point of aluminet is to reflect the light and heat while letting a cool breeze pass through to take the heat away from your tent / vehicle. 90°F air temperature isn't bad on its own. Your vehicle / tent can get way hotter than that when parked in that temperature because sunlight heats up the tent / vehicle and the cooling mechanism from air carrying away that heat is not effective enough. So you want something that reduces the incident sunlight while allowing free flow of air to ensure it can take the heat away. Aluminet works very well.

Also aluminet doesn't have as much of a tendency to blow off as a tent or canvas canopy because it allows the air to pass through. Yet, you may need to stake it down or hold it in some way. Many of the options you can buy from Amazon etc. have hemming and grommets. You could use those grommets to drape them or stake them as you deem fit.

Lastly, after seeing me drape aluminet on myself, RO suggested that we bring a GSSP-branded line of aluminet t-shirts and pants. I am all in favor.

 

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[Vishal Kasliwal]

Apologies for being a little late, but I was at IchthyoSTAR 2025.... My thoughts are in blue - 

1. Tent: Coleman has a tent with dark room technology. It blocks 90% of sunlight, I thought it would be good to block Ipad light inside the tent at night. I am not sure if I should get the 4 people tent or 6 people. I feel like the 4 people might be easier to mount and more convenient for future short trips but then one day I might want to go with all my kids and will need the 6 people one. Any input appreciated. The reviews says the Coleman tent is a bit flimsy though and quality control is not great.

Wirecutter recommends the Mineral King 3 tent with footprint https://www.rei.com/product/244686/mountain-hardwear-mineral-king-3-tent-with-footprint?irclickid=yaFVoCwY9xycWDOV9swICziMUksVJqWEE0G%3Ayg0&irgwc=1&cm_mmc=aff_IM-_-197432-_--_-
It looks like a better tent but then the GSSP website said that it might be windy out there.

Do I need a stronger tent against the wind like the REI base camp 4 https://www.rei.com/product/227740/rei-co-op-base-camp-4-tent?irclickid=yaFVoCwY9xycWDOV9swICziMUksVJM2UE0G%3Ayg0&irgwc=1&cm_mmc=aff_IM-_-197432-_--_-

Am I overthinking this? What would you get? What would be the most agreeable and convenient tent for this trip?

I prefer using a small high quality tent. For astro-trips, I have the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent which is ample room for myself and my 9-year old. It is very easy to set-up and take down and, having used it both in the burning-heat of GSSP-2024 as well as the freezing-cold of IchthyoSTAR-2025, I have found that it performs very well under both conditions. For camping trips that involve my wife, we have a much larger, 6P tent that we purchased at Costco. It also works fine, but 

i. it is considerably heavier

ii. it is considerably bulkier, taking up much more room in the car

iii. it is significantly more trouble to set-up & take-down

iv. it is much much more trouble to shove back into its bag

I usually fill my car to the brim on astro-trips and am always running pretty close to the clock, both when arriving as well as when leaving, so the time & space saved are worth it to me.

2. Most comfortable sleeping pad?
Wirecutter recommends the Therm-a-rest luxury sleeping pad.

https://www.rei.com/product/241041/therm-a-rest-luxurymap-sleeping-pad?irclickid=yaFVoCwY9xycWDOV9swICziMUksVJJ0kE0G%3Ayg0&irgwc=1&cm_mmc=aff_IM-_-197432-_--_-

I don't use the luxury, I use the - Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xtherm Sleeping Pad. I'm very happy with mine, having used this pad both as GSSP as well as at IchthyoSTAR. The newer version is the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad. It's very easy to inflate. When lying on it, I can't fell any un-evenness or stones in the ground. It does not rustle and crinkle when you move on it. It deflates and folds away very easily and is very very small when rolled up. Lastly, I felt no cold come through the ground at IchthyoSTAR 2025 even on the first night when the temperature hit 26F in the early morning on Sunday.

3. Ok don't laugh but anyone was experience with this stargaze rocking chair?
Looks comfortable to look up with binoculars.
https://www.rei.com/product/242353/nemo-stargaze-reclining-camp-chair?sku=2423530001&store=12&CAWELAID=120217890019570809&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=113169021258&CATCI=pla-2302090472805&cm_mmc=PLA_Google%7C21700000001700551_2423530001%7C2302090472805%7Cbrand_flag%7C11437667233&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=11437667233&gclid=CjwKCAjw6s7CBhACEiwAuHQckjghVJG5IeofEtYWkuaoVZ517n_9V8jXfY0lco8xD_SbRMRBoWlLsxoC5toQAvD_BwE

I use the Cascade Mountain Tech Ultralight High-Back Camp Chair (2nd Generation). It is very small when packed up, sturdy and stable when set up, comfortable, and packs away very quickly. Highly recommended. I had a couple of Nemo-Stargaze clones from Costco, but everyone in my family hated them and we ended up returning them and getting the Cascade Mountain chairs and have never looked back. I also recently got the Cascade Mountain Tech Ultralight Camp Cot which I also love. I usually observe all night and catch a few winks in the wee hours of the morning dozing in a chair - the camp cit is much much better for that purpose. It is also awesome to sun-in after a cold night.

4. Should I get a cover for my 10" Dob so I can leave it outside? Any specific cover you recommend?

Yes - you should. One night at Williams Hill Campground, we had very heavy, tick, and dripping wet fog roll in around 02:00 HRS. It soaked everything!!! Luckily, I put my Original TeleGizmos Cover on my Starmaster and it suffered no damage, dry as a bone in the morning. I have a Telegizmos Series 365 Cover for my 8" dob & I think it's even better than the original series. I'm willing to leave my scope out in a downpour in that cover. Very high quality, excellent craftsmanship, and ultra-durable.

5. Sleeping bags recommendations? Being comfortable is my number 1 consideration. (Why camping then you will ask...good point).

For my son, I use Big Agnes Duster 15 Degree Youth Sleeping Bag. It keeps him pretty comfortable on warmer nights. On colder nights, I add an electrically-heated throw bought at Costco. It it very very important to put the throw inside the bag rather than draping it over the bag. Inside the bag, the throw turns on for a few minutes before the thermostat kicks in & turns it off. This means that even if the throw is running at full power, because the duty-cycle is so short before the throw turns off, it does not drain batteries as quickly. On the first night at IchthyoSTAR-2025, with a low of 26F, my heated-throw ended up draining just 14% of a 500 W.Hr battery. I use the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 0F Sleeping Bag & find it to be very warm and comfortable for my own use. I'm considering upgrading to the Sea to Summit Alpine -20F Down Sleeping Bag because

i. I like sleeping outside the tent, on a cot

ii. I like being able to have openings on both sides for added comfort and cooling if the weather permits.

6. I got a solar charger and a hard shell cooler. Planning on buying a mini stove thingy. Anything else I should get that I am not thinking of?

Get a cheap mini-stove such as this WADEO 7200W Windproof Camping Stove. It is very small, burns insanely hot, and cools quickly. Get lots of cheap solar power - in addition to two Jackery units, I also have a 500 W.Hr Ecoflow battery & two 200W Baldr solar panels. Having power in the field is a game-changer. Consider a Starlink unit - they now have a $10 plan that can be frozen when not in use.

7. Welcoming ideas for general kids entertainment at GSSP and astronomical education. Kids are 6, 8 and 9 years old with good knowledge of astronomy already. (I am only taking my oldest on this trip though but the younger ones are scheduled for future astronomy camping trips as well). I am planning to bring kites, bathing suits and card games + books. Any other recommendations?

Frisbee, badminton raquets, chess, other outdoor party games.

8. Any advice for kids (and adults) astronomy podcasts and/or audiobooks for the road. We have the "Astronomy for dummies" audiobook and kids like to listen to the "The end of the universe" song by ASAP and "the planet song" and "the dwarf planet song" by hopscotch already. Looking to broaden our repertoire for the 5 hours drive.

I highly recommend Andy Serkis' versions of The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings trilogy (1, 2, & 3) on Audible. 

To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/sf-bay-tac/5382c199-a6f4-4015-a6c9-723166e9a2d1n%40googlegroups.com.

[Vishal Kasliwal]

BTW, I forgot, but the two most important items to take to GSSP are -

i. FreshBody Asswipes

ii. FreshBody Clean As Duck Shower Body Wipes

For men (& soon-to-be boys), I also recommend

iii. FreshBody Fresh BALLS Cream

[KG]

Hi Vishal,

Are you at GSSP? Where are you parked and what auto to locate?

Gopal K

Sent from my iPhone -made in China😴

On Jun 26, 2025, at 12:57 PM, Vishal Kasliwal <vishal....@gmail.com> wrote:



To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/sf-bay-tac/CANZYFeGrmDuHWC6YNyrHgbc4XvkDauJcVDT9xaTQvx1hp53Pkg%40mail.gmail.com.

[Vishal Kasliwal]

I'm not at GSSP this year unfortunately.  I had to choose between ultra-dark and ultra-social and ultra-dark won out. Why don't we meet up when you're back from GSSP...? 

Vishal

To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/sf-bay-tac/E4D81DCB-E4F2-40BD-8590-C5091D8ED198%40gmail.com.

[Vishal Kasliwal]

Another winner for me are these screw-in tent stakes on Amazon - https://a.co/d/e2tFfV5

They can be drilled into the ground with a driver, or even with a ratchet of you don't want to carry a battery operated driver with you. Faster than hammering stakes into the ground and muchos muchos faster than removing hammered-in stakes from hard earth...

Vishal

[Alex]

Looks interesting. Though I wonder if that bulky head is removable?

On Thu, Jun 26, 2025 at 3:51 PM Vishal Kasliwal <vishal....@gmail.com> wrote:

Another winner for me are these screw-in tent stakes on Amazon - https://a.co/d/e2tFfV5

...

Vishal

[Vishal Kasliwal]

The heads are very removable - in fact there's a little rubber o-ring that keeps the head from slipping off. You can slide the o-ring off after which, the head should just fall off. Although, I must say, the heads aren't very bright - they must have reserved the smarts for the designer :-D

Even in BISP darkness, I didn't find the heads to be a problem - they are about as bright as a 4th mag star but larger. From a distance, they help you pick out the campsite. 

What I loved about them was that staking & un-staking my tent and tarp took about 5 minutes total. Last year at GSSP, standard stakes took ~ 2 hours to remove by a combination of myself. Jonathan, and Patrick using a piece of cord for added leverage...... We were usually pulling on the cord together in 2s!!!

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