Night cache
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This page contains information specific to Geocaching Australia. |
A Night cache is a sub type of multi-cache that can only be achieved after dark.
Unlike "Night Caches" which are listed on other listing sites, there is no mandatory requirement for you to need your GPS after you have started the Night Cache course. Of course, if the geocache owner decides to make you use your GPS that's up to them, but there is no mandatory requirement for GPS use. It can be all reflectors to find the cache once you have reached the starting point. This removes the irritation of interrupting your Night Cache course to comply with an arbitrary rule about GPS usage.
Traditionally night caching uses reflective trail markers to lead you to a cache, but any method of navigation that can only be achieved after dark can also be used for a Night Cache. The coordinates given on the geocache page will generally take you to the starting point for the geocache. From there you need to find the method of navigating the course to get to the geocache. Something like looking for the reflective trail markers (FireTacks) is what can be generally assumed for a night cache. They would different to a typical multi-cache where you enter additional co-ordinates and navigate to. They might be [fire tacks] places on trees, stumps, rocks or other items in your path. They might be like road reflectors which you can bounce your torch light of in the distance. They may be reflective tape placed around something that you would need an additional light source to activate.
Reflectors are not always as easy to see as you may assume. Fire tacks and other types of reflectors are retro-reflective. This means they shine back towards the light source. If you hold the light source low they reflect back to that low point. For best results hold your light at eye level or use a head lamp. In this manner the light is reflected back to the source which is in line with your eyes.
Other types of navigation may use lasers, UV, glow in the dark, shine through, shine on and even braille (after all you're doing this without the aid of usual light sources). Trying a night cache might open up your geocaching activities to a whole new experience. One we think you’ll enjoy.
A Night cache should not be able to be completed during the day. i.e. The method of following the laid out course should only be able to be achieved after dark.
Examples
- any others?
