Ashley Waterstein:
After reviewing the answers to my previous post about imaging from indoors,
I've decided to stay with the scope during planetary imaging like I always
have. There is something I'm wondering about though. As I mentioned
before, it gets very cold here during the Wintertime and I really haven't
found a good (and cheap) solution for keeping the cold away for extended
periods (2-3 hours below freezing)) when I'm at the scope. At my local
department store the other day, I got to looking at sleeping bags. I notice
different types have temperature ratings down to 15 deg F. This might be
the solution I need. Can a sleeping bag be modified to turn it into a suit?
This would basically involve cutting holes in it for the arms and legs I
would think or maybe there's a better way. Or, does anyone know actual
outdoor clothing that would do the equivalent to what a sleeping bag does?
This would be the way to go if I could find a specific brand or type of
clothing.

Sleeping bags basically consist of two layers* of fabric with a filler
in between. The filler is designed to trap pockets of air -- the more
small pockets the better -- because air is an excellent insulator.
There are a number of companies that sell cold-weather clothing that is
made the same way; some use down as an insulator, some use manfactured
products called "Thinsulate®." I would suggest visiting cabelas.com and
requesting a catalogue. Look for products that are recommended for
extreme cold, because one needs extra protection when just sitting
around and not working.

*Remember that layering is the thing; insulating air gets trapped
between the layers and keeps you warm. Thermal underwear, wool pants,
wool shirt, insulated socks, extreme-cold-weather boots (mine are so
large that one can't drive a car while wearing them,) a wool hat under
a hooded jacket, no exposed flesh at the neck, and, of course gloves.
Most of the time I wear silk glove liners from Cabelas. They are very
thin, allowing use of small buttons on a keypad or computer, yet they
are surprisingly warm. I also keep a several pairs of mittens and
gloves (including some with fold-back fingers) handy, because the silk
glove liners aren't completely adequate, and it is sometimes necessary
to take a break and put on the heavy gloves.

Other physiological factors: drink plenty of liquids before going out,
even if that means coming in periodically to use the bathroom. Do not
consume alcoholic beverages. Some people find it useful to drink hot,
sugary liquids, such as tea or hot chocolate, during the observing
session.

And this is just for Maryland, not one of the coldest parts of the
country. Nonetheless, a wind-chill factor of -30 here is no different
in its discomfort level than -30 anywhere else.

Davoud

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usenet *at* davidillig dawt com