January 29, 2017

RMSS Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a limit on the amount of registrants at Star Stare?

Yes, registration will end once we reach 400 registrants.  The only way to guarantee your admittance is to register online.

Can I bring someone along who is not registered?

No.  Everyone on the property must be properly registered through our registration site.

Can I get a refund if there is bad weather or a featured speaker/vendor doesn’t show up?

There is always a possibility that a featured speaker, vendor, or other advertised participants can not attend RMSS due to unforeseen circumstances.  Also know that inclement weather, wildfire or other natural phenomena may occur, preventing the ability to observe the night skies.  Should these or other situations occur, we shall not be responsible for refunding merchandise or registration fees.  Our fees are non refundable. 

If I have registered and cannot attend, can I sell or transfer my registration to another party?

No.  Our fees are non refundable, non-transferable and non-negotiable.

Is potable water available on site?

The only potable water on site is what’s for sale by the food vendor.  Otherwise, potable water is not available on-site, so be sure to bring sufficient for the time you’re onsite. Please remember that the general rule of thumb is 1 gallon per person per day, and that you’ll need water for drinking, washing (yourself and dishes), and cooking. RMSS can get very hot and dusty, so please plan for your water needs accordingly. Potable water is available in Westcliffe and Walsenburg.

Can we have a campfire?

No!  Open fires are not permitted, including campfires, charcoal grills, firepits, model rockets or any open flame device!   However, gas stoves and grills are permitted provided it is operated at least 24 inches above the ground and well away from combustible materials.

Is electrical power available?

While electrical power is available on site at the Town Hall building and in several of the observing fields, practical limitations on its capacity will preclude its use for larger amperage loads such as air conditioning or the charging of electric vehicles.  Please review the power use policies HERE.

Is there any place to recharge batteries?

You may recharge your small electrical devices and batteries at the charging stations located in the Town Hall building.  There are also stations outside the building for lead-acid batteries. Please review the power use policies for specific recharging instructions HERE.  

What toilet facilities will there be?

There will be multiple porta-potties around the entire area.

Will there be portable showers available?

No, most folks bring a camping shower.

Where can we set up our camp?

You can set up camp anywhere you prefer, as long as it isn’t in one of our reserved areas. We ask you be considerate to the neighbors around you so you don’t obscure their views of the nighttime sky or infringe on their camp area. We encourage RV’s to assemble along the perimeter of the property. Details will be available at the registration center. As it can get very hot during the day, we do recommend tent campers also consider setting up camp in the trees using available shade for your comfort.

How is cell phone and/or Wi-fi coverage?

No Wi-Fi at this time. AT&T and Verizon both usually have between 2 and 4 bar service in the area. T-Mobile is extremely spotty. Many attendees set up WIFI hot-spots with their phones or cellular devices if they need internet access. We have found that due to the terrain the signal quality and strength varies around the property. If this is important to you, then consider cell phone signal strength in your campsite selection.

Is it permitted to arrive a day early and/or stay a day later?

Unless you are a member of the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society (CSASTRO), our insurance only covers the scheduled event days. We cannot permit non-members to stay outside the RMSS event days.

Is there an RV dump on-site?

No.  You should plan accordingly for an extended stay at our property.  You are also not permitted to dump your RV septic tanks in our portable restrooms.

If you have any further questions please contact us at director@rmss.org