The detailed schedule of where we'll be at what time clearly depends on the individual Astro 25 course. However, these general rules and how grades are assigned applies to all Astro 25 and 27 classes...
* Refunds: Your camping fee is now part of the registration process and is not handled by the Astronomy Department. Also, I have to pay for all camping expenses - food, camping reservations, etc - out of my own pocket, and have to reserve camping spaces ahead of time, only later to be reimbursed by the college from the camping fees you pay, using receipts I submit. If it is too late to try and find another student to replace you (for example, the beginning of the week of the trip), it is difficult to replace you. Please make sure you really want to take the class before paying your fees and getting signed up. Those who drop the class before the pre-trip session will have their college account credited with a refund of their camping fee.
You're also responsible for dropping the class if that's your choice. Remember that there is a deadline for a "W" which well before the actual end of class, and with a class this compressed, you can expect to get a "NP" (no pass) if you forget to drop the class. Instructors do not have the option or ability to give a "W" after the college-imposed deadline, which is 70% of the way through the class.
* Transportation: You are expected to get yourself to class. The college does not have 28-person vans or school buses. Your camping fee is only about $10-15 - so you're getting an amazing deal (3 or 4 meals and 2 nights of camping), and remember you'd pay ~$200-$400 for a similar outing from a commercial outfitter. Just as the college is not responsible for transporting you from your home to Cabrillo campus, the college is not responsible for getting you to off-campus course locations. I do provide time and a forum for you to get together with fellow students so you can arrange carpools during the pre-trip meeting. I may not be able to scramble at the last minute to try and get you a ride if your carpool arrangement does not pan out. That's between you and your carpool mates. I can send you a list of the contact info for other students if necessary but after that, it's up to you to get yourself to the "outdoor classroom".
* Physical Condition: . We camp at drive-in campgrounds in all cases. We don't do backpacking camping trips. We do some hiking during the day to explore planetary science / observing sites. This includes trail walking and sometimes off-trail walking as well. A few miles is typical, and a few hundred feet of elevation change or less. What one would call a mild hike. Weather is unpredictable but one thing is sure - the trip will "go" regardless of the weather! Be prepared for hot sun, cold rain, and everything in between. If its possible, we may re-route the trip to a new location if some unique weather or other situation requires it. If you have a disability, be sure to talk to me before you sign up so I can advise you on what accomodations are possible and what are not. In general we're very understanding of disabilities and make accomodations as far as grading, an integral part of the enjoyment and enrichment of these classes is to hike and explore in the wilds. While Cabrillo honors the American's with Disabilities laws, that can mean in some cases that you do alternative work if you are physically unable to accompany us on hikes. Alas - it may not mean that you get an army of personal porters!
* Children: Only registered students can be on Cabrillo College field trips. we don't cater family camping adventures, but academic courses. Please leave your young children at home. High school students who want to have a parent chapperone will, however, be welcome and accomodated.
* Drugs: No alchohol or drugs are permitted on Cabrillo field classes. While most can drink responsibly, I'm not going to try and make such judgments and possibly get into trouble. Don't even ask about "responsible recreational drug use" (!) . You're here to focus and enjoyably engage your minds - not drug them into a smokey haze. Anyone caught with drugs (pot, etc.) is subject to getting an immediate "F" course grade - so just don't do it!
* Realism: You're expected to be a self-responsible student - meaning, you realize that I can't be everywhere at once motivating you to participate, and that the relaxed atmosphere does not mean that I will be waiting on you hand-and-foot. Remain flexible, if you're not with me, keep one eye in my direction to be aware of any changes of plans due to the unforseen. We'll be out in the wilds and the schedules I hand out are guidelines, not carved in stone with atomic clocks. When I indicate we're leaving on our hikes, you need to be with the group or risk being left behind and losing participation credits. Sleepyheads beware - snooze, lose!
You will be camping. No motel rooms! I provide group meals for those who want them- Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast and dinner, and Sunday breakfast. This is part of your camping fee. Bring your own lunches and snacks and whatever is required for you to be able to be comfortable in any weather. I have a camper's checklist to help you.