The Vercors, the ideal place for stargazing

Optical equipment:

Observing the stars does not necessarily require having “professional” optical equipment: a pair of binoculars, whatever their size, or even just your eyes are enough! The spectacle of shooting stars can be seen with the naked eye, just like the constellations and the Milky Way in the sky. To appreciate the details of the moon more closely, or browse the millions of stars in the Milky Way, a small pair of binoculars will be necessary. If you are lucky enough to have larger binoculars (the aperture diameter is more important than the magnification, for this application), you will be able to discover the multitude of stars still invisible to the naked eye, and even begin to distinguish some celestial objects: open clusters, nebula, planets (in point form).

season and weather

Just before leaving, find out about the weather, it changes very quickly in the mountains: good observation conditions correspond to a clear sky, stable over time and without clouds. The occurrence of fog and mist should also be anticipated!

Sky observation can be done all year round, however in summer the temperatures are milder, which allows for more comfortable night observations. In addition, the summer sky allows relatively “accessible” observations: for example, the first half of August is the famous “shooting star shower” of the Perseids, the most “abundant” of the year. , and we can also observe the “summer triangle”, with the constellations of Eagle, Cygnus and Lyra, located at the zenith.

Apart from observing the moon itself, prefer a night without a moon or with a thin crescent.

the right equipment

In summer, and especially in the mountains, the nights can be cool: since you won't be moving much for several hours, bring very warm clothes, and even a hat and gloves (yes, yes)! A waterproof jacket will protect you from the humidity of the night.
Also bring an insulating blanket to lie on the ground, folding chairs with backs, an extra blanket.
Finally, take with you: a headlamp equipped with a red light (so as not to lose the habit of your eyes to the darkness – which can take up to 20 minutes), a sky map (paper or downloaded app ), and a thermos of hot drink for a little “midnight” snack.
Avoid turning on any light source during your observation, even the screen of a smartphone or the flame of a lighter.

good practices in the natural environment

Remember to identify a little in advance the place where you will settle down after dark: do not settle in a park grazed by animals, or even in a hayfield if the grass is high (you should not compact the grass which will be used to feed the animals). Respect private property and the work of farmers, do not set up near a home if you have not been invited to do so.
On the ENS des Rimets, fires are strictly prohibited. And be careful, don't settle in the rockery bordering the Fossil Valley, species very sensitive to trampling live there.
At the end of your observation sequence, don't forget to take all your belongings away, and take all your rubbish back with you.
En respecting nature and by remaining discreet, with a little luck, you might even be able to observe the wild animals living around you...! »