Staying Comfortable While Viewing the Stars with a Telescope

[admin]

Hi,
as i spent most of the past night with a bad back after all the viewing i wanted other more experienced astronomers to mention how they keep comfortable (and warm - my wife stayed in the car most of the time as she didnt bring a coat! )?

[Carlos_dfc]

I find that the two main things that will shorten a session for me, are warmth (lack of), and seating position (if it's poor)

To combat the seating problem, you need a seat with adjustable height - so you aren't either stretching to, or hunched over, the eyepiece.
Google 'Denver Chair'

Warmth...
Good thick (or even 'thermal') socks - and waterproof footwear. Nothing will make you feel cold and miserable, quicker than wet feet.
Warm fleece-lined coat - waterproof not essential, because if it's raining, you won't be observing.
If it's really cold - many thin layers works better than one thick coat - and you can take off whatever you need, to avoid getting too warm.
Also - if it's a long session - take a break for a drink, and to stretch your legs, every hour.
If you are away from home, take a Thermos of hot water, to make tea, coffee, cup-soups, etc...

Alcohol is not a good idea.
Even if you aren't driving - it may feel god for a short time, but actually brings body temp down quicker - you'll feel more tired - and worst of all, it has a negative impact on night vision.