Mineola Wildlife Area Dark Sky Party Observation Report by Paul Shaw

* How was the viewing? About a 240 degree view with exception at North to Northwest. (But this blocks the glow from Mineola).

* The dark skies? Dark enough to see all constellation and supporting stars, but since it is July the thick atmosphere blocks lower magnitude star.

* Any horizon obstructions? a couple of trees to the west

* Any light dome obstructions? Lindale produces a 2-5 degree above horizon glow

* How many people/cars can the facility hold? Parking lot holds 30 cars plus 3 handicap spaces. Pavillion can hold about 50 people. If cars parked on the west side of the parking places (18) the east side can be used for viewing.

* How far from the parking area to the observation area? 50 feet

* How was the observation are? Some low clouds (cumulus) and high (stratocirrus) from 6pm to 7;30, then clearing about 8pm. We could see major planet before dark among low clouds. [We could see heavy clouds south of Tyler area.]

* Was it level? Slight incline toward the South

* How many scopes can we fit into the observation area (12'x12' per scope)? 3 on South of Pavillion, 4 on the Trail (Paved) and 8 on the East parking lot.

* How bad are the mosquitoes? Not as bad as expected but there were some after dark. We used Avon Bug Guard Mosquito repellent toweletts (oil of citronella). We knew they were around, but didn't get any bites.

* Any power on site? A couple receptacles near the Pavillion. 50 to 75 foot extentions would get you near the end of the parking lot and trail.

* Restroom facilities? Yes, each as IR on/off inside.

* Is it open access or does someone need a key to let us in? Open with prior permission.

* Will there be people/cars around that pose a problem? No, not after dark

* How late are we able to use the facility? All night, again with prior permission

* How far of a drive from Tyler? 25 miles, 30 minutes from the Loop and N. US 69