It is particularly interesting to extend the tracks backward toward the convergent point to find the meteor shower radiant and we would not discourage such experiments even initially. Thus observers who think they may have a talent for plotting should submit their charts and records obtained for three different nights to headquarters. We will then evaluate these initial efforts and make our recommendations for your further work. In this way, we can save everyone considerable time and effort. Observers are presumed to know how to protect themselves against cold, moisture, and insect pests, in their own localities.
Mosquitoes are particularly objectionable in summer and frostbite in winter.
In fall and spring moisture and dew are problems. Minimum equipment for comfort is a deck chair and a sleeping bag. A red-colored flashlight, pencil, clipboard, and watch are minimum equipment for recording. Observing locations away from artificial lights with treeless horizons are ideal, but usually hard to achieve. If lamps have to be present, incandescent lamps are usually preferable to mercury lamps.