Moffett Field LUNAR shade/table options

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EFr_000

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Hi all,

I recently took the family out for a first launch at Moffett Field (concrete airfield) last weekend, hosted by the LUNAR.org club. I didn't expect to see so many people out there. I wish I had prepared for what to bring as far as a field tools, chairs, shade. I didn't bring any of that. I brought the rockets, that I help the kiddos build, 3 sets of motors and wadding. I read the sign outside that no tents were allowed. Not sure the reason, but its their rules.

So I am looking for some shade, table and chair options for a family of 5 (2 adults, 8yr old, and 4yr old twins), for the next launch at Moffett Field. We left after our first launch because the kids weren't really up to standing in the sun, and were starting to get hungry, plus the rockets suffered some damage after the launch (https://www.rocketryforum.com/showthread.php?126883-Estes-Wizard-First-flight).

Any suggestions?
 
I rely on a wide-brimmed hat and lots of sunscreen! I also bring a collapsible camp chair to sit in and a picnic blanked to mark out my space. I don't usually bring a table to Moffett, but some people bring folding card tables or other folding tables.

Some people have folding camp chairs with built in shade canopies, or a shade umbrella that attaches to a chair. That's not a lot of shade, but it helps for those who are not actively flying.

One of the most useful items I have is a collapsible camp wagon for hauling my stuff from the parking lot.

Were you there on the 27th? That was actually a very light day at Moffett, with relatively short lines. Often it is much more crowded.

I hope you can find a way for your group to be comfortable. Maybe I'll see you at a launch.
 
I rely on a wide-brimmed hat and lots of sunscreen! I also bring a collapsible camp chair to sit in and a picnic blanked to mark out my space. I don't usually bring a table to Moffett, but some people bring folding card tables or other folding tables.

Some people have folding camp chairs with built in shade canopies, or a shade umbrella that attaches to a chair. That's not a lot of shade, but it helps for those who are not actively flying.

One of the most useful items I have is a collapsible camp wagon for hauling my stuff from the parking lot.

Were you there on the 27th? That was actually a very light day at Moffett, with relatively short lines. Often it is much more crowded.

I hope you can find a way for your group to be comfortable. Maybe I'll see you at a launch.

Yup, we were there the 27th, just after 9am. Left around 11...

We have a little tent like this I was thinking of bringing. Is this kind of thing allowed?
https://images.costco-static.com/image/media/500-871412-847__1.jpg

 
Yup, we were there the 27th, just after 9am. Left around 11...

We have a little tent like this I was thinking of bringing. Is this kind of thing allowed?
https://images.costco-static.com/image/media/500-871412-847__1.jpg


I'm under the impression that these kinds of things are not allowed, but I'm not really certain. You might want to email your question and picture to a club officer. I don't really know the reasoning behind the rule or exactly what kinds of shade structures are prohibited.
 
I have no experience with Moffett field launch area, but I can only assume that the shade structure rules come from the Navy and not the club. Having been in the Navy a while, the fact they would have a rule like that doesn't surprise me at all.

Good Luck...
 
I got in contact with the members from LUNAR.org and was informed that because the launch site is an active runway, NASA Ames doesn't want an accident involving a tent blown away during winds which could damage aircraft and/or persons.
 
Edit: I should read the post before mine, about the concern for tents blowing over and damaging aircraft... this will probably nullify the E-Z Up I recommended, my apologies.

My mother bought me an E-Z Up canopy from WalMart years ago when they were $99. Now they are $149 and worth every penny:

https://www.walmart.com/ip/38436691?productRedirect=true

Get a table that folds away small like this five footer:

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-5-Centerfold-Table-White/33148260

While working on your rocket(s) around the table, I recommend a stool, as you will be up and down a lot. For lounging (chill'n), just pick up some of the quick folding chairs:

https://www.walmart.com/ip/DNP-Legal-Issue-Ozark-Trail-Deluxe-Folding-Camping-Arm-Chair/23864494

Now I linked most everything to WalMart, but obviously you can shop these items anywhere for quality and price... but whatever you do, do not skimp on the canopy... My E-Z Up has been champ of a deal since day one!!
 
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