PREVIOUS EVENTS C lick here to look at all the presentations Click here to look at all the videos of previous meetings Click here to see a contents of all our minutes Click here to see our Youtube page (where all of our videos are stored) Click here for information on our 50th Anniversary in 2014 Click here for information on past open days ​ Got a past presentation to share? Contact Us! Read our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy so you understand what will be done with your work once submitted. 5 Apr 2024 Prof. René Breton University of Manchester Cosmic Fireworks Minutes Here N/A N/A 1 Mar 2024 Rodger Livermore ADAS Member Dwarf 2 Telescope Minutes Here N/A N/A 2 Feb 2024 Colin Henshaw ADAS member The Southern Sky MinutesHere N/A N/A 5 Jan 2024 Ingrid Hogan ADAS Member The Caldwell Catalogue Minutes Here N/A SlideShow Here 1 Dec 2023 Dr Steve Barrett University of Liverpool The Star of Bethlehem Minutes Here Video Here SlideShow Here 3 Nov 2023 David Temperley West Didsbury Astronomical Society Member How stars die - and why Minutes here N/A N/A 6 Oct 2023 Lauren Smith ADAS member Exoplanets Minutes here N/A N/A 1 Sept 2023 Chris Suddick ADAS Member The Messier Catalogue Minutes here N/A N/A 2 Jun 2023 Bansa Singh-Hayer ADAS Member Saturn – A Giant in the Night Sky N/A N/A N/A 5 May 2023 Gary Gilbert ​ The Drake Equation N/A N/A N/A 7 Apr 2023 Chris Suddick ADAS Member Telescopes of the World (and out of this World) N/A N/A N/A 3 Mar 2023 Dr. Steve Barrett University of Liverpool 'How to Build a Tellurian' and 'Using a Telescope as a Beginner' N/A Video Here SlideShow Here Date Speaker Position Subject Minutes Video Presentation 1 2 3 ... 15 1 ... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 ... 15

UPCOM ING EVENTS Date Subject Presenter 03/05/2024 TBC Next Presenter NEXT EVENT ​ TBC 3 May 2024 ​ ​ 606th Meeting Subscribe to Calendar Timperley Village Club, 268, Stockport Road, Timperley, Greater Manchester, WA15 7UT 15 parking spaces available behind the Timperley Village Club Local tram stop 22min walk (1.1 miles) 6 bus stops from 177ft to 0.1 miles First Friday of every month, except in July and August. Arrive at 8pm £3 for non-members to attend a meeting £1 for children to become members for a year - Click for more information £20 for adults to become members for a year - Click for more information

Latest News WELCOME Next Event We are a friendly society of around 30 people who meet regularly to talk about and enjoy the night sky. We have several telescopes and other pieces of equipment which can be borrowed by society members for their own use. Throughout the year we meet on the first Friday of each month (except July and August) at 8pm until 10pm at Timperley Village Club. At these monthly meetings we discuss the society's business and have an event such as a lecture, video, slide show etc. Next Event NEXT MEETING ​ TBC 3 May 2024 ​ ​ 606th Meeting Subscribe to Calendar For more information on future events like this, look at our 'Upcoming Events ' page. ​ To attend, become a member or pay a £3 fee at the door Download Previous Slide Show Click here to see more previous events with any slide shows of them linked, and click here for a list of presentations. Watch Video of Previous Meeting Click here to see more previous events with any videos of them linked, and click here for a list of videos. See Minutes of Previous Meeting OTHER EVENTS Name Description Date Location Organisers Link Got an event you want to share? Email the webmaster at webmaster.adas@gmail.com to get it published. Latest News LATEST NEWS Webb has Arrived A Time Machine Thirty Two Years in the Making Calling from the Moon Click here for the latest news article Click here for the latest post about an event The This is the line up of the three people that keep this fantastic society ship shape, bringing the cosmos to you, even if the clouds cover it. LEARN MORE COMMITTEE

OTHER MINUTES Date Meeting Minutes 5 Apr 2024 606 Minutes 1 Mar 2024 605 Minutes 2 Feb 2024 604 Minutes 5 Jan 2024 603 Minutes 1 Dec 2023 602 Minutes 3 Nov 2023 601 Minutes 6 Oct 2023 600 Minutes 1 Sept 2023 599 Minutes 2 Jun 2017 528 Minutes 1 1 ... 1 ... 1

Software Websites Practical Astronomy Books Informative Astronomy Books Magazines Podcasts Television Series Youtube Channels Twitter Accounts Newsletters RSS Feeds Apps Contact Us! OTHER USEFUL RESOURCES SOFTWARE Software Name Link Compatability Description Cost PHD Guiding https://openphdguiding.org Windows, MacOS Auto-guiding software for telescopes Free ASCOM https://ascom-standards.org/ Windows (Linux & MacOS soon) Standard interface for range of astronomy equipment Free GuideDog http://barkosoftware.com/GuideDog/index.html Windows Auto-guiding software for telescopes Free MetaGuide https://www.smallstarspot.com Windows Auto-guiding software for telescopes Free LTImage https://www.schoolsobservatory.org/help/ltimage Windows Easy-to-use software by NSO to edit FITS images (aimed at schools and beginners) Free FITS Liberator https://noirlab.edu/public/products/fitsliberator/ Windows, MacOS Imaging Package Free GIMP https://www.gimp.org Windows, MacOS, Linux Image Processing Free IRIS http://www.astrosurf.com/buil/iris-software.html Windows Imaging Package Free Aperture Photometry Tool https://aperturephotometry.org Windows, MacOS For photometry of images Free WinJUPOS http://jupos.org Windows Locating impacts on objects in the Solar System Free Celestia https://celestia.space/download.html Windows, Linux, MacOS 3D simulated universe, with thousands of objects used in the simulation Free Stellarium http://www.stellarium.org Windows, Mac, Linux Live Planetarium Free Gaia Sky https://zah.uni-heidelberg.de/gaia/outreach/gaiasky Windows/Linux/MacOS Look at a visualisation of the Gaia data so you can jump from one end of the Milky Way to the other Free Cartes du Ciel http://www.ap-i.net/skychart/en/start Windows, Linux, MacOS Software to draw sky charts Free K Stars https://edu.kde.org/kstars/ Windows, MacOS, Linux Helps with planning sessions, with a simulation of the sky, FOV calculator etc. Free Virtual Moon Atlas http://sourceforge.net/projects/virtualmoon// Windows, Linux Software for Moon observation and survey Free TiltSun http://www.salisburyu3a.org.uk/SciTech/Abergavenny/Sci-Tech2012/Rainbows/www.atoptics.co.uk/tiltdld.htm Windows 10 and below Helps you find out the orientation of the Sun for use during eclipses Free Adobe Photoshop https://www.adobe.com/uk/creativecloud/catalog/desktop.html Windows, MacOS, Linux Image Processing £19.97/month inc. VAT SAO Image DS9 https://sites.google.com/cfa.harvard.edu/saoimageds9 MacOS, Windows, Linux Display and visualise astronomical images to scientifically analyse them Free Astro Image J https://www.astro.louisville.edu/software/astroimagej/ Windows, MacOS, Linux Image processing and photometry Free Raw Therapee https://www.rawtherapee.com Windows, MacOS, Linux Software to process raw image Free Siril https://siril.org Windows, MacOS, Linux Image processing tool Free Registax 6 http://astrophotography-telescope.com/download-registax-6-free-stacking-software-and-image-processing/ Linux/Windows Planetary Video Processing Software (malware on official site) Free StarStax https://markus-enzweiler.de/software/starstax/#download MacOS, Windows, Linux Combining Sub-Exposures and Star Trails Stacking Free Deep Sky Stacker http://deepskystacker.free.fr/english/index.html Windows Combining Sub-Exposures Free Lynkeos https://lynkeos.sourceforge.io/wiki/index.php/Download MacOS Planetary Video Processing Software Free Startrails https://www.startrails.de/#download Windows Star Trails Stacking Free AutoStakkert! 2 https://www.autostakkert.com/wp/download// Windows Planetary Video Processing Software Free Sharp Cap https://www.sharpcap.co.uk/ Windows (vista to 7) Live stacking and imaging software for use with cameras Free/£10 per year digiCamControl http://digicamcontrol.com Windows (Canon & Nikon DSLR) Camera Control Free FireCapture http://www.firecapture.de Windows, MacOS, Linux, Blackberry Planetary Webcam Control Free IC Capture https://www.theimagingsource.com/support/downloads-for-windows/end-user-software/iccapture/ Windows (except Windows XP) Imaging source webcam control Free With help from Apendix G, The Art of Astrophotography by Ian Morison, ISBN 978-1-316-61841-7, published by the Cambridge Univeristy Press in Cambridge, UK; and Rodger Livermore's talk at ADAS on 4th June 2021. Websites WEBSITES With help from "Astronomy Sites " Sea and Sky, "List of Best Space and Astronomy Websites " Astronomy Trek. Both accessed 4th July 2020. Name Link Description Society for Popular Astronomy https://www.popastro.com/main_spa1/ SPA Website International Astronomical Union http://www.iau.org/ IAU's Website Astronomy Digest http://www.ianmorison.com Ian Morison's collection of tips & tricks for amateur astronomers Go Stargazing https://gostargazing.co.uk/ Find public stargazing events and locations in the UK BAA https://britastro.org BAA website FAS http://fedastro.org.uk/ FAS website StarDate https://stardate.org Resources from McDonald Observatory, Texas Aenigmatis https://aenigmatis.com/astronomy/find/sagittarius.htm Many amateur astronomy resources from Martin J. Powell Astrometry.net http://nova.astrometry.net/ Find out what your image of the night sky is of Online Narrowband RGB Combination Preview Tool https://www.bintel.com.au/narrowband-preview-tool/?v=322b26af01d5 Find out what different combinations of your RGB images look like with a tool by Dylan O’Donnell Symbols & References https://space.fm/astronomy/tools/symbols.html A guide to all astronomy jargon Astronomy Tools https://astronomy.tools A collection of useful, free astronomy tools (like calculators) NSO Simulators & Calculators https://www.schoolsobservatory.org/discover/sims-cals Fun simulators and calculators, from gravity on other planets to how old you would be if you lived on a different planet Cruxis http://www.cruxis.com Telescope Data Calculators 12 Dimensional String Astronomy Tools https://www.12dstring.me.uk A selection of useful calculators and other astronomy tools Cal Sky https://www.calsky.io/en/ Astronomical calculator to plan observing Bintel Astronomy Calculator & Simulator https://www.bintel.com.au/tools/astronomy-calculator/?v=322b26af01d5 Find what combination of telescope and camera is best for you with a tool by Dylan O’Donnell NASA Planetary Fact Sheets https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/planetary/factsheet/ Up-to-date stats about bodies in the solar system Telesopius https://telescopius.com Deep sky objects database, telescope simulator, astrophotography mosaic planner, astrophotographer social network Extrasolar Planets Encyclopaedia http://exoplanet.eu Exoplanet catalogue and database JPL Horizons System https://ssd.jpl.nasa.gov/horizons/app.html#/ Input any object in the solar system and get the most accurate and up to date information out NASA Exoplanet Catalogue https://exoplanets.nasa.gov/discovery/exoplanet-catalog/ Exoplanet catalogue and database NASA Exoplanet Archive https://exoplanetarchive.ipac.caltech.edu Exoplanet catalogue and database Gravity and Orbits Simulation by PHET https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulation/gravity-and-orbits Gravity simulation where you can play about with the gravity of different object and see what would happen Suntrek http://www.suntrek.org Educational tools focused on the Sun Hubble Legacy Archive http://hla.stsci.edu Look at and edit archived images from the Hubble Space Telescope Globe at Night https://www.globeatnight.org/webapp/ Report on light pollution in your area Commission for Dark Skies https://britastro.org/dark-skies/index.php Commission for Dark Skies website Avex Light Pollution Map https://avex-asso.org/dossiers/pl/europe-2016/ Detailed light pollution map of Europe by Frédéric Tapissier (in French) England's Light Pollution and Dark Skies https://www.nightblight.cpre.org.uk/maps/ Detailed map of light pollution in England Lightpollutionmap.info https://lightpollutionmap.info Interactive light pollution map of the world to help you find where best to stargaze Dark Sky Discovery https://www.darkskydiscovery.org.uk Helpful tools to make use of the UK's dark skies Astropedia https://astrogeology.usgs.gov/search Lunar and planetary map database from the US Geological Survey Meteor Map https://tammojan.github.io/meteormap/ Map of all the latest meteor detections worldwide by the Global Meteor Network arXiv Cornell University https://arxiv.org Wide variety of scholarly articles about astronomy Astronomy.co.uk https://www.astronomy.co.uk Space and astronomy news site Universe Today https://www.universetoday.com Space and astronomy news site Space.com https://www.space.com Space and astronomy news site PDS Image Atlas https://pds-imaging.jpl.nasa.gov/search All images from NASA missions, searchable. NASA Photojournal https://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/ Select photos from NASA missions Space Telescope Live https://spacetelescopelive.org Live information on what JWST and Hubble are looking at and why. NASA Astronomy Picture of the Day https://apod.nasa.gov A new and exiting astronomy image every day Heavens Above Live Sky View https://www.heavens-above.com/skyview/?lat=53.3977&lng=-2.317&cul=en#/livesky Online planetarium with live views of satellites that may interfere with astrophotography NASA Sky Map https://www.nasa.gov/skymap/full/ Map of where many objects objects of interest are, along with info about each one Stellarium Web https://stellarium-web.org Online planetarium, like Stellarium's software Solar System Trek https://trek.nasa.gov Maps by NASA of many objects in the Solar System HRSC webGIS Mars map https://maps.planet.fu-berlin.de Map of Mars using satellite imagery Interactive Sky Chart https://skyandtelescope.org/interactive-sky-chart/ The Sky & Telescope's online interactive sky chart NASA/JPL Solar System Simulator https://space.jpl.nasa.gov Gives an simulation image of the solar system/an object in it ESASky https://sky.esa.int/ Visualise and download public astronomical data Constellation Maps https://www.iau.org/public/themes/constellations/ Sky maps of each constellation by Sky&Telescope and the International Astronomical Union Heavens Above https://www.heavens-above.com Helping observe and track astronomical objects JPL CNEOS https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/ca/ List of current NEOs and timings of close approaches The Sky Live https://theskylive.com Data (like current apparent magnitude) on known astronomical objects Occultation Predictions https://occultations.org/observing/occultation-predictions/ Predictions of occultations happening in the future JPL Small-Body Database https://ssd.jpl.nasa.gov/sbdb.cgi Data for all know asteroids and many comets The Night Sky this Month http://www.jb.man.ac.uk/astronomy/nightsky/ A guide to what's up in the night sky by Ian Morison Celestial Almanac https://skyandtelescope.org/wp-content/plugins/observing-tools/almanac/almanac.html?latitude=53.398&longitude=2.317&tzone=0&UTdate=now&UTtime=now Brief overview of astronomical info for your area by the Sky & Telescope MrEclipse.com http://mreclipse.com Information for observing eclipses by the NASA Scientist Emeritus, Fred Espenak NASA https://www.nasa.gov NASA website ESA https://www.esa.int ESA website IAC Talks http://iactalks.iac.es Talks by many speakers about astronomy based topics (some are in Spanish) SpaceWeather.com https://www.spaceweather.com A helpful current list of all things space weather, from aurorae to sunspots Clear Outside http://clearoutside.com/forecast/53.40/-2.32 Astronomy forecast, including cloud cover, visibility and ISS flyover times Alaskan Northern Lights Webcam http://allsky.gi.alaska.edu An amazing view of the northern lights daily NISP Data Products https://gong2.nso.edu/products/mainView/table.php?configFile=configs/mainView.cfg Up to date imagery of the Sun through various methods and at a variety of locations on Earth ISS Live Stream https://eol.jsc.nasa.gov/ESRS/HDEV/ Live stream from a camera onboard the ISS PRACTICAL ASTRONOMY BOOKS Practical Astronomy Books With help from "Best Astronomy and Astrophysics Books " Space.com, "Best Astronomy Books for Beginners " Telescope Adviser and "Best Astronomy Books " I Love the Universe. All accessed 15th July 2020. Don't forget with a library card you may be able to access some books for free on Borrow Box ( click here to look) or at your local library Name Author Publisher Description Origional Cost Atlas of the Universe Patrick Moore Philip's Detailed informaiton on astronomy and its history, including maps and catalogues £25 Celestial Objects for Modern Telescopes Michael A. Covington Cambridge University Press Traditional and novel approaches to studying the night sky £38.00 Digital SLR Astrophotography Michael A. Covington Cambridge University Press How to photography the night sky with a digital SLR camera £27.99 Exoplanet Observing for Amateurs Bruce L. Gary CreateSpace How to observe exoplanet transits €28.62 Guide to the Night Sky Storm Dunlop and Wil Tirion Royal Museums Greenwich Month-by-month guide to exploring skies above Britain and Ireland £6.99 Lunar and Planetary Webcam User's Guide Martin Mobberley Springer How to use webcams to image astronomical objects €34.31 Mathematical Astronomy for Amateurs E. A. Beet W. W. Norton & Company Ltd. Practical calculations for astronomers £13.99 Night Sky Atlas Robin Scagell and Will Tirion Philip's All the maps needed to learn your way round the night sky £14.99 Practical Astronomy Storm Dunlop Philip's Basic concepts of astronomy, lists of objects and star charts £9.99 Spectroscopy The Key to the Stars: Reading the Lines in Stellar Spectra Keith Robinson Springer All information to carry out amateur observational spectroscoopy €21.11 Spectroscopy for Amateur Astronomers Marc F. M. Trypsteen and Richard Walker Cambridge University Press Thoretical and practical elements of spectroscopy £39.99 Star Ware Philip S. Harrington John Wiley and Sons Guide to choosing, buying and using telescopes and accessories £14.99 Stargazing Basics Getting Started in Recreational Astronomy Paul E. Kinzer Cambridge University Press Covers information to get you started in astronomy £14.99 Stargazing Beginners Guide to Astronomy Radmila Topalovic and Tom Kerss Collins Introdution to the night sky and how to observe it £9.99 Stargazing Month-by-Month to the Night Sky Heather Couper and Nigel Henbest Philip's Month-by-month to the what to observe £6.99 The 100 Best Astrophotography Targets Ruben Kier Springer Guide to specifically target the best objects for amatuer astrophotographers €36.39 The Art of Astrophotography Ian Morison Cambridge University Press Essential details of how to produce good astronomical images £29.99 The New Astronomy Guide Stargazing in the Digital Age Patrick Moore and Pete Lawrence Carlton Books Principles of astronomy and practical observing techniques £16.99 The Northern Lights Celestial Performances of the Aurora Borealis Daryl Pederson and Calvin Hall Sasquatch Books How to photograph the aurora borealis $19.95 INFORMATIVE ASTRONOMY BOOKS Informative Astronomy Books With help from "Best Astronomy and Astrophysics Books " Space.com, "Best Astronomy Books for Beginners " Telescope Adviser and "Best Astronomy Books " I Love the Universe. All accessed 15th July 2020. Don't forget with a library card you may be able to access some books for free on Borrow Box (click here to look) or at your local library Name Author Publisher Description Origional Cost A Brief History of Time Stephen Hawking Bantam Books A journey from the beginning to the end of time, with clear language and in a succinct fashion. £9.99 Asteroid Hunters Carrie Nugent Ted Books The story of finding asteroids and using modern technology to save the Earth from the disaster one could cause. £8.99 Atlas of the Universe Patrick Moore Philip's Descriptions on eveything from the atmosphere to Jupiter moons to the messier objects. £25 Brief Answers to the Big Questions Stephen Hawking John Murray Easy to follow explinations to ten big questions. £8.99 Catching Stardust Natalie Starkey Bloomsbury Publishing Takes away misconseptions about comets and asteroids, and explores what they are and our evolving relationship with them. £11.89 Dark Matter and Dark Energy Brian Clegg Icon Books A simple and comprehendible introduction to the questions of dark matter and dark energy £6.99 Death by Black Hole: And other Cosmic Quandaries Neil deGrasse Tyson W. W. Norton & Company A blend of different topics about different parts of the universe, from black holes to the search for life. £11.99 Facts from Space! Dean Regas Adams Media Gathering together many mind-blowing facts about the universe as a great place to start your journey into space science. £10.99 Finding Our Place in the Universe Hélène Courtois MIT Press Journey to discover the Milky Way's location in the universe. $24.95 Gravitational Waves Brian Clegg Icon Books All about gravitational waves and how we observe them £9.99 Out There Mike Wall Grand Central Publishing An exploration into the search for life, if we can make it to them and, if we could, their potential reaction of meeting us. $27 The Planet Factory Elizabeth Tasker Bloomsbury Publishing The story of exoplanets, their formation, how to detect them, and the search for the next Earth. £9.99 The Universe Lonely Planet Lonely Planet A descriptive overview of the universe, from the Sun to exoplanets. £22.99 The Zoomable Universe Caleb Sharf Macmillan Explores the formation of many things from life to galaxies, and concepts like quantum theory, with the help of colourful illustrations whilst going through the universe, from large to small scale. $28.00 MAGAZINES Magazines With help from "Magazines and Journals " Sky & Telescope. Accessed 4th July 2020. Don't forget with a library card you may be able to access some magazines for free on Overdrive (click here to have a look) or at your local library Name Publisher Description Origional Cost per Issue All About Space My Favourite Magazines In-depth astronomical articles, maps and images £4.99 Astronomy Magazine Kalmbach Media Observing tips, astrophotography, science and telescope reviews $5.99 Astronomy Now Magazine Pole Star Publications Limited UK astronomy tips and space science articles £4.50-£5.50 Sky & Telescope Magazine AAS Sky Publishing LLC Current celestial events, news, research, observing resources and astronomy equipment reviews $5.99-$6.99 The Sky at Night Magazine Immediate Media Company Limited & BBC Studios Many interesting stories on astronomy and maps per month £5.50 PODCASTS Podcasts With help from "Bingeworthy space and astronomy podcasts for those in self-isolation " The Sky at Night Magazine, and "15 space and astronomy podcasts that are out of this world ". Salon. Both accessed 4th July 2020. Name Link Hosts Description 365 Days of Astronomy https://cosmoquest.org/x/365DaysofAstronomy/ Various Astronomers round the world Daily podcast about astronomy from people around the world Astro Radio https://www.astroradio.earth Various People Radio station with shows about everything astronomy related Astronomy Cast http://www.astronomycast.com Fraser Cain and Dr. Pamela Gay Weekly discussions on astronomical topics Awesome Astronomy http://awesomeastronomy.com Ralph Wilkins, Jen Millard and Paul Hill Explores current space science ESA Explores https://esaexplores.podbean.com Various people The official ESA podcast takes a look at various astronomy topics related to ESA European Space Agency https://soundcloud.com/esa Various People Lots of different and current topics about space are discussed Hostile Worlds: Exploring Space https://hostileworlds.net David Ault, Collin Grey, Matthew McLean and Sarah Golding Semi-dramatised travelogue around the hostile locations in the solar system Jodcast http://www.jodcast.net Astronomers based at the University of Manchester's Jodrell Bank Monthly astronomy news, interviews and questions Look Up! https://soundcloud.com/user-429302439/sets/look-up-2021 Various people Monthly podcast highlighting the important things to look for in the night sky that month Main Engine Cut Off https://mainenginecutoff.com/podcast Anthony Colangelo Weekly discussions on spaceflight, exploration, policy and strategy NASA's Curious Universe https://www.nasa.gov/curiousuniverse Various people NASA talks about various astronomy concepts and NASA activities Naked Astronomy https://www.thenakedscientists.com/podcasts/astronomy-podcasts Richard Hollingham and Sue Nelson Monthly astronomy news Planetary Radio https://www.planetary.org/multimedia/planetary-radio/ Mat Kaplan Weekly news on space exploration, astronomy and science Radio Astronomy https://play.acast.com/s/radio-astronomy Ezzy Pearson and Iain Todd Latest space and astronomy news by the creators of the BBC Sky at Night Magazine Small Steps, Giant Leaps https://appel.nasa.gov/podcast/ Various people Fortnightly chat with the NASA scientists and engineers that make it happen Spacepod https://www.listentospacepod.com Carrie Nugent Discussions on a part of the universe with an expert guest The Actual Astronomy Podcast https://actualastronomy.com Chris and Shane Regular podcast on practical astronomy The Curious Cases of Rutherford and Fry https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07dx75g Hannah Fry, Adam Rutherford Weekly podcast on science questions (including on astronomical matters) sent in by listeners The Interplanetary Podcast https://www.interplanetary.org.uk/podcast Matthew Russell, Jamie Franklin, Julio Aprea, Crhis Carney, Harriet Brettle Weekly podcast on space science The Super-Massive Podcast https://ras.ac.uk/podcast Izzie Clarke, Dr. Becky Smethurst Looking at astronomical history and the latest research every month Travelers in the Night https://sites.google.com/site/travelersinthenight/home AI Grauer Asteroid, comet, moon and planet updates TELEVISION SERIES Television Series With help from bbc.co.uk , and "Do you want to learn more about stars? ". Under Lucky Stars. Both accessed 16th July 2020. Name Current Presenter(s) (all if discontinued) Current Network(s) (origional if discontinued) Description Updated? Cosmos: A Personal Voyage Carl Sagan PBS Covers a wide range of astronomical subjects, including the origins of life and our place in the universe 1980 Cosmos: A Space Time Odyssey Neil deGrasse Tyson Fox, National Geographic Channel Explaining what the subject has to offer in today's world after the leaps it has taken since 1980 2014 Cosmos: Possible Worlds Neil deGrasse Tyson National Geographic Channel Latest planetary science and astrobiology 2020 Horizon Various people BBC Two Monthly documentary series on the latest science stories, including some astronomical stories Monthly How the Universe Works Mike Rowe Science Channel Latest science on various astronomical topics Yearly series (January to March) Star Gazers Trace Dominguez PBS Weekly series on naked eye astronomy Weekly The Sky at Night Chris Lintott, Maggie Aderin-Pocock BBC Four Monthly documentary series on the latest astronomical news and information on what you can see in the night sky Monthly The Universe Erik Thomson, Gerrard McArthur The History Channel, H2 Looks at many astronomical topics and explains them with computer graphics 2007-2015 Through a Wormhole Morgan Freeman Science Channel Explaining the many astronomical topics and consepts, some relevant to the time 2011-2018 Wonders of the Solar System Brian Cox BBC Two, Science Channel Each episode focuses on a different part of the solar system 2010 Wonders of the Universe Brian Cox BBC Two, BBC HD Explinations of fundamental scientific principles and laws of the universe 2011 YOUTUBE CHANNELS Youtube Channels With help from Youtube and "20 Astronomy Youtube Channels For Astronauts ". Feedspot. Both accessed 15th July 2020. Name Presenter(s) Link Description DeepSkyVideos Various People https://www.youtube.com/user/DeepSkyVideos Exploring deep space one video at a time Dr. Becky Becky Smethurst https://www.youtube.com/c/DrBecky Focus on what and how we know things about astronomy ESA Various People https://www.youtube.com/user/ESA Current astronomical news explained and missions shown NASA Various People https://www.youtube.com/user/NASAtelevision Current scientific endevours (like space missions) shown and astronomical questions explained PBS Space Time Matt O'Dowd https://www.youtube.com/c/pbsspacetime/ Explaining big astronomy questions and the possibilities of science fiction SciShow Space Hank Green, Caitlin Hofmeister, Reid Reimers https://www.youtube.com/user/scishowspace Ground breaking discoveries explained and astronomical questions answered Sixty Symbols Various People https://www.youtube.com/user/sixtysymbols From the University of Nottingham, looking at a variety of astronomical and physics topics and explaining big questions SpaceRip Various People https://www.youtube.com/c/SpaceRip Big questions answered and current astronomical news explained The Royal Institution Various People https://www.youtube.com/user/theroyalinstitution Lectures on a range of scientific topics, inculding astronomy UK Space Agency Various People https://www.youtube.com/user/spacegovuk UK astronomy news and astronomical consepts explained TWITTER ACCOUNTS Twitter Accounts With help from Twitter and "15 Accounts for Space Nerds ". Mental Floss. Both accessed 15th July 2020. Name Link Description @AstroADAS https://twitter.com/AstroADAS The official Twitter page of Altrincham and District Astronomical Society @Avertedvision https://twitter.com/Avertedvision Pete Lawrence promotes various astronomical events along with some astrophotography @BBCStargazing https://twitter.com/BBCStargazing Promoting the BBC TV programme and giving information on the latest astronomy news and weather @BadAstronomer https://twitter.com/BadAstronomer Latest news and space images explained by Phil Plait @ISS_Research https://twitter.com/ISS_Research Current NASA research and science onboard the space station @Matt_Heverly https://twitter.com/Matt_Heverly Current news from inside Mars missions and NASA's JPL @NASA https://twitter.com/NASA Latest NASA news on science and missions @NASAExoplanets https://twitter.com/NASAExoplanets Latest news of the discoveries and science of exoplanets @NASAHubble https://twitter.com/NASAHubble Latest Hubble news from NASA @NASAVoyager https://twitter.com/NASAVoyager Voyager 1 and 2 latest news on use of the data and current data collected, as well as their position @NLCalerts https://twitter.com/NLCalerts Alerts you to any sightings of noctilucent clouds, so you can predict their appearance @RoyalAstroSoc https://twitter.com/royalastrosoc Latest astronomy news in the UK and worldwide @SpaceX https://twitter.com/SpaceX Current news in the growing private aerospace manufacturer @_SpaceWeather https://twitter.com/_SpaceWeather_ Weather in space including aurora @apod https://twitter.com/apod Daily image of the universe with an explination @astro_reid https://twitter.com/astro_reid NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman's look on current astronomy news @astro_timpeake https://twitter.com/astro_timpeake 1st British ESA astronaut Tim Peake's insight into current astronomical news and life on the ISS @esa https://twitter.com/esa Updates on ESA activites @lowflyingrocks https://twitter.com/lowflyingrocks When an object passes within 0.2AU of the Earth, @lowflyingrocks alerts you @spacegovuk https://twitter.com/spacegovuk Latest UK efforts in space and UK space science NEWLETTERS Newsletters Name Link Description Astronomy.com Newsletter https://astronomy.com/magazine/newsletter Space news, along with astronomical events, members pics and offers. BAA Alerts https://britastro.org/baa-alerts Alerts you to all the current transient astronomical events that need urgent observation. BBC The Sky at Night Magazine Newsletter https://www.skyatnightmagazine.com/newsletter/ What to see in the night sky, tips on viewing, kit reviews and space news. ESA Newsletter https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/EUESA/subscribers/new?preferences=true Newsletter on all current ESA activities and events . FAS Newsletter http://fedastro.org.uk/fas/publications/newsletter-back-issues/ FAS related news, alongside current astronomy related news (no email subscription). JPL Newsletter https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/signup/index.php Get all the news from NASA's JPL Jodrell Bank Newsletter https://www.jodrellbank.net Latest news on events at Jodrell Bank (at bottom of page). NASA Mars Newsletter https://mars.nasa.gov/newsletter-subscribe/ Newsletter on all current science on Mars NASA Newsletter https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/hHN32CZ/nasagov Newsletter on all current NASA activities. Nature Briefing Newsletter https://www.nature.com/briefing/signup/ Roundup of daily science news, including astronomy New Scientist Space Newsletter https://www.newscientist.com/sign-up/launchpad/ Weekly (every Friday) newsletter on current space related news Planetary Science Institute Newsletter http://eepurl.com/hamPVb Giving a weekly roundup of all planetary science news Science Daily Newsletter https://www.sciencedaily.com/newsletters.htm Newsletter of all current science. Timeanddate.com Newsletter https://www.timeanddate.com/newsletter/ Current astronomy news, from what meteor shower is happening when to what type of full moon it is. UK Space Agency Newsletter https://space.blog.gov.uk/subscribe/ Updates on all UK Space Agency activities. arXiv Cornell University Newsletter https://arxiv.org/help/subscribe Current science in all areas from black holes to telescope design RSS FEEDS RSS Feeds Name Link Description ADAS https://www.astroadas.space/blog-feed.xml A direct link, giving your the latest astronomy/ADAS related news ESA http://www.esa.int/Services/RSS_Feeds In the "Related Links" section is a list of 10 rss feeds, plus regional ones, relating to ESA operations NASA https://www.nasa.gov/content/nasa-rss-feeds A list of RSS feeds relating to current science, NASA operations and podcasts New Scientist https://feeds.newscientist.com/space A copiable link, giving you the latest space stories from New Scientist Science Daily https://www.sciencedaily.com/newsfeeds.htm A list of RSS feeds to get the most up-to-date science. Space.com https://www.space.com/feeds/all A direct link, giving you all the latest space related news UK Space Agency Blog https://space.blog.gov.uk/feed/ A direct link, keeping you up-to-date with the space agency's activities Universe Today https://www.universetoday.com/feed/ A direct link, alerting you to new astronomy related articles TABLET/PHONE APPS Apps Contact Us! Name Google Play App Store Microsoft Amazon Compatibility Description Price AuroraWatch UK https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/aurorawatch-uk-aurora-alerts/id946141347 Apple Aurora Activity Free Chirp https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.laserlabs.chirp Google Alerts you to gravitational wave events with a chirp sound Free Clear Outside https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.firstlightoptics.clearoutside https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/clear-outside/id921555752 https://www.amazon.co.uk/First-Light-Optics-Ltd-Outside/dp/B00TOFHROY Google/Apple/Amazon Astronomy weather app Free Gravitational Wave Events https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/gravitational-wave-events/id1441897107 iPhone Alerts you to gravitational wave events with a chirp sound Free Heavens Above https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.heavens_above.viewer Google Astronomical events/satellite tracker Free Sky Live https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/sky-live-heavens-above-viewer/id693905898 iPhone Astronomy weather app Free Star Walk 2 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vitotechnology.StarWalk2Free https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/star-walk-2-ads-night-sky-map/id1112481571 https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/p/star-walk-2/9nblggh4x49z#activetab=pivot:overviewtab https://www.amazon.co.uk/Vito-Technology-Star-Walk/dp/B00HZPDB3G/ref=pd_sim_nf_1?pd_rd_w=KVEmp&pf_rd_p=6957aab4-235e-4650-8a39-70066d8c4d19&pf_rd_r=RYABPRWFPGJSFM1DS50F&pd_rd_r=f9123244-f761-46eb-a72f-5c0174b0bfc5&pd_rd_wg=2pP39&pd_rd_i=B00HZPDB3G&psc=1 Google/Apple/Amazon (Star Walk)/Windows Mobile planisphere Free/£1.75 (Amazon)/£2.49 (Windows) Stellarium Mobile https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.noctuasoftware.stellarium_free https://www.amazon.co.uk/Noctua-Software-Stellarium-Mobile-Sky/dp/B00H1MDH3W/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8 Google/Amazon Mobile planisphere Free Xasteria: Astronomy Weather https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/xasteria-astronomy-weather/id985030722#?platform=iphone Apple Astronomy weather app Free Got a suggestion to share? ​ Contact Us! 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BEGINNERS If you’re interested in astronomy the best thing to do is to contact ADAS and arrange to come to one of our meetings. We’re a friendly group who will help you by suggesting resources, equipment and you are welcome to listen to some of our talks and presentations. Like us on Facebook where you can ask questions and join in the discussion or follow us on Twitter. One of the first things people want to do when they start looking at the stars is to buy a telescope. However, before you do that, there are many amazing things to see without any equipment, with the naked eye. Here is a short video to tell you what there is to see. One of the best ways to find you way round the night sky is to learn the constellations. Here is a short video showing those you may see from the perspective of Northern Europe. Remember that if you visit anywhere in the southern hemisphere (like Australia) the night sky will look different. Stellarium is a free piece of software that you can load onto laptops, tablets and even phones. Android and iOS versions are available. It has a great function where you can see all the constellations (find this and many more in the "other useful resources " section). Here’s a video showing you the constellations. Next, once you've learnt your way round the sky, it's time to start looking with a smaller field of view, on a telescope. Here’s a short video by the BBC Sky at Night Magazine explaining a little more about what is on offer (left), followed by the ADAS Guide to Choosing the Right Telescope (right). Along with owning a telescope, it is useful to know how the various types of telescope work and how to use them. Here is the ADAS Guide to Telescope Instrumentation and Operation, produced by ADAS members in 2014. As well as the telescope itself, eye pieces are also needed to view the night sky with a small and detailed field of view. Here is the ADAS Guide to Using Eyepieces There are some great video resources on YouTube and other sites. Here’s one that explains the basics of astronomy. Remember that any books will probably be available from the local library or contact us as we may have a copy available for you to borrow. Of course stars aren’t the only thing you might like to look at. You can get a good view of some of the solar systems planets. This first video (left) gives you some great images of the planets in the solar system. The second video (right) is a much longer and in-depth video about the solar system. Need some more reading material? Click on the left hand button to look at our guide to astronomy, describing everything from the planets in the Solar System to nebulae in the night sky. Or you could check out Chris Suddick's presentation explaining all the key ideas of beginners taken from a meeting on 6th August 2021 by clicking on the right hand button. Please do get in touch with us and arrange to visit one of our meetings and presentations or stargazing nights.

COMMITTEE Treasurer ​ Richard Bullock Richard is a graduate of Astrophysics from Cambridge University. He has been our treasurer since 2006. Chairman ​ Peter Baugh Peter is a retired lecturer from Salford University and has been chairman of the society since 2013. Peter has organised many open days and external events promoting the society. Secretar y ​ Chris Suddick Chris has been a member of the society for over 30 years and has served on the committee for most of them. He is the society's main focus for education in children's groups.

Weather Sunrse/Sunset Sky View Sun Moon Satellites Aurora Solar System CURRENT SKY Weather Forecast Weather Live Sky View Sky View Solar Activity Live Latest Images of the Sun Visible Light Photosphere (intensitygram) Guide to Solar Observing Sun Water Vapour Map Sunrise/Sunset Sunrse/Sunset Solar Activity Aurora Forecast See Aurora live Lunar Phase Live Spot the Station Aurora Activity Current Solar System Moon Satellites Aurora Solar System

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February September MINUTES | 2011 4th February 2011 February PRESENT Chris Suddick (Chairman), Geoff Flood, Colin Eaves, Dave Butterworth, Steve Holt, Kevin Thurstan, Tony Aremia, Steve Saint, Josh Saint, Andy Greenhow, Stephen McHugh, Kevin Rodgers, Karin Rodgers, Geoff Walton, Peter Baugh, Nick Odom, Ged Burbeck + 1 other. Total 18 Chris introduced Alan Banks, formerly of Macclesfield AS whose talk was entitled: Observing the 3rd Planet Alan introduced himself as being not only an astronomer looking up he now monitors satellites, via a dipole aerial and receiver which he has cobbled together himself. Whilst initially tracking the satellites and getting images from archive material he now gets direct or indirect reception using free software (although one has to be licensed). Initially if man wanted to get a better view of what was happening around him he would climb trees or hills to look around. The next development was to get greater elevation by using balloons then by ‘planes and finally via an array of satellites. It was in 1957 that sputnik was put up and then in 1958 Explorer1 discovered the Van Allen belt, but at this stage the object was just to spy on the enemy. Now of course many countries have satellites either in polar orbit or geostationary orbit. Whilst many of these are still used for espionage purposes others are of considerable use to mankind and can study many occurrences on earth. Alan showed by video or stills some great images showing many applications of the images received, the most common being metrological images which can track and thus forecast the direction of storms or other weather patterns and giving early warning of potential problems. We were shown fluctuations in the ozone “hole” seasonal variations in ice at the poles. An outstanding example of water misuse was indicated by the drying up of the Aral Sea which can clearly be seen drying up over a relatively short period of time. Seasonal variations are another aspect which can be traced, for instance when trees lose leaves in winter there is less CO2 absorption but there is more pollution via heat generation. Particularly useful information may be generated in showing the direction of travel of disasters such as forest fires, the flow of floods or volcanic eruptions. These and many more were illustrated and clearly this is a fascinating subject. Although costs are tending to increase anyone wanting further information can look at Alan’s website, www.alanbanks.org.uk Chris thanked Alan for his talk. In the absence of Graham Sinagola and owing to the total incompetence of the stand ins there was no milk so we did not get a “teabreak”. There was no Treasurer’s report The Secretary drew attention to various meetings of other societies via the FAS website. The Liverpool AS Imaging Workshop on May 7th 2011 The Wythenshawe Stargazers meeting in Wythenshawe Park on Wednesday 9th March 2011.from 6.00 – 9.00pm. The Chairman then closed the meeting. 7th September 2011 September PRESENT Chris Suddick (Chairman), Geoff Flood, Tony Aremia, Geoff Walton, Colin Henshaw, Roger Livermore, Peter Baugh, Richard Bullock, Norman Thurstan, Steve Holt. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Ged Burbeck, Graham Sinagola. MINUTES OF THE 46TH AGM In the absence of Graham Sinagola minutes of the last AGM were not available. APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS In each case there was only one volunteer for office and they were thus appointed with the agreement of those present. CHAIRMAN Chris Suddick TREASURER Richard Bullock GENERAL SECRETARY Geoff Flood MINUTES SECRETARY Peter Baugh (in liaison with Geoff Flood) SPEAKERS SECRETARY Peter Baugh TREASURER’S REPORT Richard presented his report (attached) which shows that last year we had 15 paid up members which is just about enough o keep the Society afloat, however, it was pointed out that 2 of those will be leaving the area. Items of loans and the repayment of them were a result of Richard Bullock kindly lending money to the Society as a result of problems with the banks. Rental for the period 2009 - 2011 has not yet been paid to 1st Timperley Scouts. This will amount to a sum of £400. All in all the Society has a balance of £1285 and Richard forecast that we should break even in the coming Society year. Richard will contact Mark Crossley to get a cheque signed so that funds can be transferred from the Yorkshire Bank to Barclays. SECRETARY’S REPORT Geoff reported that most correspondence comes in via e-mail and that these had been forwarded to members. All the current membership of ADAS can be contacted by e-mail with the exception of Tony Aremia who is kept up to date by the Secretary. Correspondence includes a monthly list of meetings supplied by the FAS and for September they include (locally) interesting meetings at the West Didsbury AS, Liverpool AS and Macclesfield AS. In the future it would be good if ADAS submitted notices. An e-mail has been received from Nick Odom who has emigrated to New Zealand. He was enthusing about the dark skies and the ability to see a great deal simply using binoculars - he can’t wait for his telescope to arrive. PROGRAMME With the withdrawal from office of Graham Sinagola it is necessary to arrange a programme of speakers from scratch. Graham has the NWGAS list and Peter Baugh will need to get that from him, he will also need contact addresses for the BAA and FAS. The Secretary will liaise with him in this respect. The Chairman noted that to keep costs low it is necessary for more members of the Society to give talks and we should aim that half of our meetings should be addressed by members. In October 2011 Peter Baugh will speak about Caroline Herschel so we are looking for another 4 internal speakers for this season. The possibility of doing a live link with Colin Henshaw is being examined or the possibility of Colin sending a talk on a memory stick for presentation ANY OTHER BUSINESS Colin Henshaw raised the possibility of increasing membership via articles in local magazines such as the Hale and Altrincham Handbook or View Timperley, ideally when there is an interesting astronomical event happening. Geoff Flood pointed out that we have a notice up in Timperley promoting ADAS and that Timperley Library has him as a contact for the Society but clearly there is more that could be done. The bigger problem seems to be retaining new members rather than attracting them. There being no other AGM business the Chairman closed this part of the meeting. Following a refreshment break Colin Henshaw gave a talk entitled Astronomy Without a Telescope Fist of all Colin showed photographs of the Lunation 1094 which showed the complete changes of the visible moon over a 1month period, a feat that would be virtually impossible in Britain as we never get a whole month that is cloudless. Colin was clearly up at some odd hours to catch these pictures as you get, in this case 7 crescents in the morning and 6 in the evening. But why do astronomy without a telescope? A number of reasons were given but mainly it’s low cost. having said that a good deal of money can be spent on cameras and ancillary equipment. The first thing is to learn to find your way around the sky via a star atlas and the BAA hand book which informs of dates and times of happenings. So armed then one can start to do some real astronomy, meteor counts and other data, planetary observation etc. Colin specialises in Variable Stars and measures variability using the brightness of known stars as an indication of variable brightness’s. Colin explained that Venus and Jupiter are too bright but Saturn and Mars are possible. Other observation possibilities include Milky Way (perhaps not in Manchester) , the visual appearance of which Colin feels has been neglected, Eclipses when one can measure changes in temperature and humidity at the earths surface, Zodiacal Light. Noctilucent clouds are often seen in this part of the country and are caused by water vapour on meteoric dust Using binoculars in many cases gives more scope and it is even possible to view deep sky objects. One can observe comets assessing the magnitude size and position of the tail and other aspects. Colin concluded that Astronomy without Telescopes is low cost, rewarding and can be appreciated by others. A vote of thanks was proposed by Chris Suddick, who then closed the meeting.

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HISTORY since 1964 Altrincham & District Astronomical Society was formed in November, 1964 by a group of 15 year old schoolboys who acquired a small plot of land from the Council in Timperley at the edge of the recreation field where they built an observatory. As well as weekly meetings at the observatory site, meetings were held on the first Friday in the month from September through June at various venues, including Timperley Library, Timperley Community Centre, 1st Timperley Scout Hut and now the Timperley Village Club. ​ During the early years the members built their own telescopes and often observed in winter all night in sleeping bags under the stars. Other activities included visits to dark sky sites, such as Tegg’s Nose, Lamaload and Llyn Brenig in North Wales and camping trips were also organised. ​ The society now acts as an educational centre for local schools, scout/cub groups and guide/brownie groups which feature astronomical activities, slide shows and telescope demonstrations. Star parties are also held to which the public are invited and include poster displays, telescope operation, sunspot viewing, barbecues and Martian (pea) soup. The society also has an interactive relationship with Jodrell Bank and is often present at open days at which they display their optical telescopes. ​ Members of the society have been active in observing eclipses in various parts of the world including India, Curacao and Hawaii and several members had adventurous trips to observatories in South Africa. One member has a special place in the society’s history in that he was the first amateur to observe supernova SN1987A in the Large Magellanic cloud in 1987. Patrick Moore with Tony Bradshaw, ADAS member Ged Birbeck is using the 14inch (350mm) RFT at the roll-off observatory. History of the Society, Colin Henshaw The ADAS was founded in 1964 by Fred Talbot and Trevor Smith, who were both pupils, along with myself, at North Cestrian Grammar School. We were all in the same year group, and Fred and I were in the same class in 1961. We were fifteen years old when the society was inaugurated. Prior to 1964, Fred and Trevor were in the North East Cheshire Astronomical Society, (formerly the Cheshire Group of the Junior Astronomical society, now the SPA), that used to meet at the old Cheadle Institute on Cheadle Green. I went once, and recall attending a meeting in which some old gentleman lectured on the Pic du Midi Observatory in the Pyrenees. I recall three members of the society who were probably on its executive, these being John Lockley and Chris Collier. Another was a fellow called Eric Hyde, who I believe came from Sale, like Fred. At some point in 1964 there must have been some internal politicking going on and Fred and Trevor decided to break away and set up on their own. In this way the ADAS came into existence, with Fred as Chairman and Trevor as Secretary. Membership was drawn from interested pupils at North Cestrian, myself being one. The school was not very supportive. A few years earlier, the school had its own astronomical society, run by the history teacher, Colin Rogers. This was certainly prior to 1961, as my brother was a member, but he has not indulged in astronomy since. Younger children in the lower forms (1 to 3) were not allowed to join it. The first ADAS meeting was held at the Park Road Branch Library, if I recall, on Friday, November 13th, 1964. Since we were juveniles, we were not trusted to hold meetings without an adult present, but two teachers from North Cestrian, Thomas Alfred Dybas, latterly known as McCloed, and Alan Ward. The former taught English, and the latter, Biology. Alan Ward still lives on Russell Avenue in Sale, and until about ten years ago was a neighbour of Stuart Gibson, who attended meetings in the 1970's. The second meeting was held on Friday, December 3rd, 1964 in a basement classroom at North Cestrian. Thereafter the school no longer offered us any support, though for several years its membership was largely recruited from there. Messrs McLeod and Ward continued to provide their support, enabling us to return to the Park Road Branch Library until we reached such an age that we could be trusted. During the second meeting, elections were held for an assistant secretary, whose function was to write up the minutes of the meetings. I was duly elected, but I had reservations about the post at first, but it grew on me, and I actually began to enjoy it. I would meticulously record the attendance at every meeting. In 1966 Fred and Trevor left North Cestrian. Fred went to Sale Grammar School, while Trevor went to Altrincham Grammar School. Fred brought in a new influx of recruits from Sale Grammar School, including Graham Cliff. Meetings were lively and usually well attended, with the usual ups and downs. Graham was elected onto the committee. Pete Wadsworth, who came from Sale Moor, and was a lively character that served on the committee and hosted observing sessions at his home. I recall observing the Geminids there one cold and frost night in December 1969. During the early years of the society, before the observatory was constructed we would go on observing sessions to Carrington Moss. We would gather at Fred's house on Edale Grove in Sale, and make our way there on our bikes, entering the Moss near the "Lively Lobster." Pete Wadsworth had set up an intercom that the recorder of observations would use to keep in touch with the observers. One activity that the society developed was the astronomical camp, held every summer. This was a tradition brought over from the North East Cheshire Astronomical Society. One thing that was done was to create a cine film of the camp's activities. The first camp that was held in 1965, was at the Marquis of Anglesey's estate at Plas Newydd, Llanfair P.G. on Anglesey. I was on the camp, and this was my first real introduction to astronomical observation. Meteors were the main interest. I also recall seeing a very bright flashing satellite (the first time I had ever seen one). I actually found it quite alarming. Before observing we would go to the pub in Llanfair P.G., even though we were under age. However we still got served drinks. I recall on one occasion a halogen flood lamp illuminating a car park was affecting our observations. I soon put paid to that. It was about half a mile away from the camp, but I went over one evening and found the offending light was located on the roof of a building overlooking the car park. I shinned up onto the roof and found it was fixed onto a steel girder weighed down by bricks. I removed the bricks, rotated the girder 180 degrees and then replaced them. The light was now aimed directly over the Menai Straits and no longer gave us any trouble. This was my first encounter with the problem of light pollution. In 1966, we didn't manage to get back to the estate, so instead, a small group of us held a camp at a farm in Alderley Edge. That was when skies away from the main urban areas were quite dark and the Milky Way was still visible. Again, the observation of meteors was the main focus of our attention. In 1967, we returned to Anglesey, but in 1968 we went back to Alderley Edge. Graham Cliff's family had had a hut on a farm outside Alderley Edge since the 1930's, and we decided to hold the camp there. On the camp was a new enthusiastic member, Richard Scoular, who hailed from Scotland, but lived in Wilmslow. He was active in the society for several years in the late 1960's to early 1970's, then mysteriously disappeared and was never seen again. The tradition of astronomical camps continued well into the 1970's usually Wales - e.g. Tudweiliog and Cemaes Bay. The society's major project that was largely responsible for holding it together was the establishment of the observatory. Fred and Trevor sounded out Altrincham Council in 1968, with a view to building one, and we were first offered a plot of land near Seamon's Moss, near Oldfield Brow. I recall going along one weekend to clear the plot of grass, and we all turned up with scythes and grass cutters. However, for some reason this fell through, though we managed to secure a plot behind Lyme Grove in Timperley when new parliamentary legislation permitted 18 year olds to sign a lease. Once we secured the plot, work began on the observatory in summer 1968. It was not without setbacks, as local vandals knocked down the walls on one occasion and we had to start from scratch. Undaunted the building was completed by the end of December 1968. By this time we had all left our various schools. I was at Stockport College and Graham Cliff was at Manchester University. Trevor went to Durham University and Fred went to Ponte land College in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. It was around this time that a boy from Wythenshawe by the name of Graham Sinagola wrote to me about the society, and he came along to one of the meetings. He used to ride around on a small Honda 50. He thought the observatory was fantastic and became a staunch member of the society ever since. Around this time several girls from Altrincham Grammar School for Girls joined the society. These were: Linda Rofe, Christine Henderson, Susan Livingstone and Janet Matthews. Love affairs blossomed. Susan Livingstone subsequently went to Oxford University and studied mathematics and later married Graham Sinagola. Linda had a sister called Pauline who ended up marrying Graham Cliff, so the astronomical society played a very important role for many people. The observatory was a ramshackle affair with a twelve-sided hardboard dome that was supposed to rotate on castors. Several people had to move it during observing sessions, and on at least one occasion strong winds nearly blew it off. In the early 1970's the facility expanded with the acquisition of the clubhouse around 1973. I wasn't around for its construction as that summer I was in the United States. Graham Cliff also acquired his family's hut in Alderley Edge and we spent a weekend there dismantling it and transferring it to Timperley on a flat backed lorry. The idea was to use the hut as a library. Fred donated his astronomical books and his telescope. This was the heyday of the society when its social life revolved around the observatory. On clear Friday nights we would gather at the observatory and observe planets, and anything else that was of interest. In 1967 George Alcock discovered Nova HR Delphini and this inspired me into observing the nova. I followed it for about two years after which it faded from view, but by this time I had honed my skills as a variable star observer. By 1969 I transferred these skills to the visual observation of variable stars that continued unabated till 2008, after which I started observing photo electrically with a DSL camera. In 1970, we were blessed with our first ever view of a bright comet. Comet Bennett was visible in the morning sky for several weeks from late March, and during the Easter holidays we observed it several times from Graham Cliff's hut in Alderley Edge. The comet showed prominent gas and dust tails. The comet was discovered by Jack Bennett in South Africa and I later met him at a BAA meeting in London, where I was studying zoology at the North East London Polytechnic. In 1974 two boys, Paul Rendell and Ken McConville from Wellington Road School, joined the society and began to play an active part. Paul had an 8 inch telescope that he eventually donated to the observatory. Ken had spent some time in Australia and eventually returned there and was last heard of living near Brisbane with his wife Shelley, and he still pursues an interest in astronomy. 1974 also brought Comet Kohoutek. This object proved to be a damp squib, but we managed to observe it one night from a good vantage point at Alderley Edge. In 1975, we observed a close conjunction of Venus with Jupiter that provoked a large number of UFO reports. It was successfully imaged through Paul Rendell's telescope. Other notable members of the society around this time were Jim Gillies, who was a pupil at North Cestrian while I was there, and I recruited him through promotions in the school during my final years. He went to Sheffield University and studied metallurgy, and eventually settled there. Peter Galloway and Paul Howarth ("Spiro") came from Denton and Ashton-under-Lyne respectively and were long standing members for many years. Peter became a teacher in a Manchester school while Paul became a social worker. Paul disappeared to New Zealand and has not been heard of since. Ian Winstanley, Brian Casey and Colin Powney joined the society around 1973 and played quite an active part. Brian eventually married Christine Henderson and they settled in Scotland. Sadly Colin Powney died around 1998. All three were aviation enthusiasts and would spend many hours at Manchester Airport recording the comings and goings of aeroplanes. Colin was particularly noteworthy in this respect, having amassed several large albums of pictorial aviation history at the airport. He could even identify an aircraft from the sound of its engines. I recall one night sitting in the High Grove pub in Gatley with Colin when a plane flew overhead. He said "Drink up! We're going to the Airport. Concorde's just flown in." Sure enough, there it was on the tarmac when we arrived, and we sat and admired it until it took off again. The society around this time was mainly composed of teenagers and twenty-something’s. However one older person did come to meetings who was substantially older. This was Reginald S. B. Hall, a stern character who believed that societies should be formally organised. He was at one point critical of our election procedures. He would come along to the observatory and to meetings with his son Tim. Tragically Reg died at work from a heart attack, but Tim remained a loyal member for many years before re-locating to Blackpool. He has not been heard of since to my knowledge. In 1972, the annual society dinners were inaugurated around Christmas. The first dinner was held at the Koh-I-Noor restaurant in central Manchester. About twenty members attended the event, and Graham Cliff placed a tape recorder in the middle of the table to record the banter. It would be interesting if he still has the tape. Subsequent dinners were held at the Halal Restaurant in Timperley and elsewhere.

50TH ANNIVERSARY Radio Astronomy Features of the Cosmos

January February April May September October December MINUTES | 2006 6th January 2006 January The 412th Meeting of the Altrincham and District Astronomical Society, held at Timperley Village Club on Friday 6th of January 2006 at 8pm Those present were: Paul Clark, Kevin Thurstan, Mark Crossley, Tony Aremia, Mike Tyrrell, Philip Masding, Norman Thurstan, Richard Bullock, Terry Bailey, Geoff Flood, Colin Eaves, Geoffrey Walton, Graham Sinagola, Nick Dixon, Nick Odom, Ged Birbeck, Stuart Oldbury, Adam Oldbury, Paul Brierly, Chris Suddick, 2 others. (Total 21) The chairman Paul Clark opened the meeting by welcoming everyone to the meeting and commented on what a good turn out it was for a January meeting. He told us that there was no speaker tonight but that we would be seeing some lunar pictures by Paul Brierly and a DVD about David Malin. We were told that next month Mike Cook would be bringing in some of his equipment to tell us about and explain some equipment pitfalls. We then started with the DVD about David Malin the acclaimed astronomer and astrophotographer on colour in the universe. It told the story of his astrophotography, mostly with the Anglo Australian Telescope, but also from telescopes in the Canaries and Hawaii, using glass plate photography in three different colours to create spectacular pictures of great scientific value. How over the years his experiments with processing, printing and later with newer processes such as unsharp masking, had enabled him to make many new discoveries and obtain new information off photographic plates taken many years ago. The Chairman then thanked Geoff for providing the original video and Chris for transferring it onto the DVD that we watched. We then had our tea break. We restarted the meeting with some of Paul Brierly’s new Lunar pictures, the results of his first experiments with his new Philips tou cam pro & laptop and some of the problems he had experienced. Mark Crossley then recommended various software packages you could use to stitch them together into a mosaic. Next to business. The minutes of the last meeting were taken as read. The Secretary went through the post and reminded everyone that the area-planning meeting for the Stockport sky beam was on Monday evening 9th January. He and Geoff Walton would be going and anyone else who could go would be welcome, the Chairman apologised for not being able to go because of work commitments. The treasurer reported that society funds were currently just over £2000 but that bills just received would take it back under that figure. We were then brought up to date on the situation with the obs site and a possible move. The council had inspected the site and were waiting for an answer from the leisure department. Feedback from the Scout hut committee was mostly favourable but one or two were not sure at a rent of £400- £450. We said we would keep our eyes on the weather for a possible group-observing trip maybe to Clough House. The meeting was then brought to a close. 3rd February 2006 February The 413th Meeting of the Altrincham and District Astronomical Society, held at Timperley Village Club on Friday 3rd of February 2006 at 8pm Those present were: Paul Clark, Kevin Thurstan, Mark Crossley, Tony Aremia, Mike Cook, Norman Thurstan, Richard Bullock, Terry Bailey, Geoff Flood, Colin Eaves, Geoffrey Walton, Graham Sinagola, Nick Dixon, Ged Birbeck, Paul Brierly, Chris Suddick, Peter Baugh, Don Utton, Colin Bowler, John Tipping, Andy Carroll, Barry Carroll, 4 Others (Total 26) The chairman Paul Clark opened the meeting by welcoming everyone to the 413th meeting and announced that tonight’s talk was one man and his telescopes by mike cook, telling the story of his experience with the telescopes he has owned over the last six years. His interest was kicked off by his uncle Malcolm and he bought himself a pair of 50mm binoculars, but soon wanted more. So he went to buy some larger 80mm binoculars and came away with a 5 inch Macksutov-Cassegrain. Mike then went on to describe his buying, selling and sold ownership of at least 24 telescopes of various designs and sizes over the past six years. These included a 5” Darkstar reflector, 10” & 14” home made Dobsonions, Nexstar 114, Celestron 80mm refractor, Konus 80mm refractor, ETX 70 tube assembly, Intes MN56 5” Maksutov Newtonian, Orion 6” tube assembly, Helios 8” reflector and 77mm Borg refractor. Next he sold everything he still had and got a 12” Meade LX200 with a Takahashi FS102 as a finder. Soon after he took it down to Devon for a star party and returned home with a TMB 105 triplet refractor instead. After the tea break he continued with some of the other scopes he has owned since including a Celestron C5, a 7” Mirage Maksutov with a Takahashi FS60 as a finder, 63mm Karl Zeis refractor, Takahashi FS70. Currently he has an 8.3” Takahashi CN212 Cassegrain/Newtonian, a Takahashi Sky 90 refractor and a Celestron C14 Schmidt Cassegrain. He also owned, for a short while, a 6-foot observatory dome, which didn’t make it into his own garden before being sold. Mike was thanked for his talk and we move don to the society business. First was the news that the Stockport sky beam planning application had been refused by the full planning council on environmental grounds. There was no news as yet from the council and the possible surrender of the obs lease. The meeting was then brought to a close. 7th April 2006 April The 415th Meeting of the Altrincham and District Astronomical Society, held at Timperley Village Club on Friday 7th of April 2006 at 8pm Those present were:Paul Clark, Kevin Thurstan, Mark Crossley,Richard Bullock, Colin Eaves, Geoffrey Walton,Graham Sinagola, Nick Dixon, Ged Birbeck +2, Chris Suddick, Peter Baugh, Don Utton,Philip Masding Roger Livermore B Hetly ? 1 other,(Total 18) The chairman Paul Clark opened the meeting by welcoming everyone to the 415th meeting and announced that tonight we were fortunate to have David Ratledge from Bolton AS to give a talk on advances in digital astrophotography. David started by explaining how CCD chips work. He told us some of the advantages of silicon over film were that silicon is ten to twenty times more sensitive, no reciprocity failure and substantial subtraction of light pollution. David then talked about web cams. They are cheap but you need a laptop or computer to run one. They are good for imaging the Moon, planets, sunspots and can be used for double stars. Next was the digital darkroom he said that he used Iris software which is one of the ones that is free on the internet and that using parts of it he could get two to three times more resolution in the final image which was good for galaxies and planetary nebulae. We then heard about infrared imaging. Infrared imaging done through black glass cuts out all light pollution and penetrates the Milky way’s dust clouds, allowing you to see through the Milky way to otherwise hidden galaxies. It also lets you image quasars and the early universe. His next topic was digital SLR cameras. One advantage is that they have big CCD chips, in fact the same chip is used in some £500 DSLR cameras as in some £4000 dedicated astro CCD cameras. However they do have some problems of their own, they are poor at the red end of the spectrum as they have a filter over the CCD chip to give better flesh tones, but you can get one over the internet where the filter has been replaced with a clear one. Other problems include generally coming with poor quality lenses, exposure noise, dewing up and difficulty aiming through the viewfinder. Lastly he spoke about hybrid images where a close up image was pasted onto a wide field image for a more detailed composite image. We were shown lots of great images throughout the talk and were told if we wanted to see more to visit his website at www.deep-sky.co.uk . Paul thanked him for his talk and we then had a break. On resuming the meeting Paul Clark showed us four images of Saturn through his 6” scope with a webcam, to show his improvement over the last month. He then talked briefly about the viewing possibilities for the fragmented comet 73P/Shcwassmann-Wachmann over the next couple of months. Following this we went onto society business. The Secretary noted that we had received the new BAA journal and thanked Paul Brierly for donating a book on the moon for the society’s library. He also thanked all those who went to help and support at the recent astronomy evening at Delamere Forest Park. Ged Birbeck reported that as yet we had no prices for the clearing of the obs site. It was stated that there was a card for Tony Aremia, who was in hospital, for anyone who wished to sign it and had not yet done so, sending him our best wishes. For our next Meeting, on May 5th at 8.00pm, we would be changing venue and trying out the Scout hut. The meeting was then brought to a close. 5th May 2006 May The 416th Meeting of the Altrincham and District Astronomical Society, held at Timperley Village Scout hut on Friday 5th May 2006 at 8pm Those present were: Paul Clark, Kevin Thurstan, Mark Crossley, Tony Aremia, Philip Masding, Don Utton, Norman Thurstan, Colin Eaves, Geoffrey Walton, Graham Sinagola, Nick Dixon, Ged Birbeck, John Tipping, John Gartshore, Roger Livermore, Stuart Oldbury, Paul Brierly, Chris Suddick, Peter Baugh, Richard Bullock. (Total 20) The chairman Paul Clark opened the meeting by welcoming everyone and apologising for being late. He then thanked everyone who had helped sort out for tonight’s new venue, announcing that tonight we would start with a talk by Phil Masding called spy satellites. Phil started by saying, “Lets see what we can find in the public domain”. First Is the International space station, “ been there, seen that, got the T-shirt”. What else can you see? All the rest are very small in comparison, the next largest is the European satellite Envisat, however some of the others he has been trying to observe are the US Lacrosse satellites. The orbits for these 5 satellites are not published by the US and the orbits are only known because of amateur observations. He told us that given just a few observations from around the world that it was quite easy to calculate a satellites orbit. We were then given the known details on the satellites & their side looking radar systems. Phil then detailed his own successful attempts to image some of them, and using software he wrote himself, to use those images to work out some of the satellites true dimensions. Using his new diffraction grating he has now taken the spectrum of a different satellite, which may be an amateur first. The secretary thanked Phil for his talk and the meeting had a tea break. When the meeting resumed Mark Crossley gave us an update as to what has been happening with comet 73P and showed us some images of it taken by himself prior to it’s latest break up. After thanking Mark the secretary started on club business :- The society’s application to the Timperley village fair was being sent. The society now has a copy of David Ratledge’s new book for it’s library, and the society has received £50 from the Forestry Commission for our March talk at Delamere. Ged has received a quote for clearance of the obs site of £3000 and we are still waiting for a quote from the council themselves. It was suggested that we may hold a working party in June or July to do some of the work, fair warning was given “if it’s yours – take it out or it will be cleared”. It has also been confirmed that we do not need an asbestos survey. Next were opinions on the new venue, the general consensus was good. Chris Suddick told us the Adas website was up for renewal and he would do this for 2 years. Paul Brierly suggested we might wish to join him on the 19th/20th May at Clough House, possibly our last chance to observe galaxies until after the summer. Tony Aremia thanked everybody for his card and their kind thoughts.The meeting was then brought to a close. 1st September 2006 September The 418th Meeting and 41st AGM of the Altrincham and District Astronomical Society, held at Timperley Village Scout hut on Friday 1st September 2006 at 8pm Those present were: Paul Clark, Kevin Thurstan, Richard Bullock Mark Crossley, Tony Aremia, Philip Masding, Don Utton, Norman Thurstan, Colin Eaves, Geoffrey Walton, John Tipping, Roger Livermore, Paul Brierly, Colin Bowler, Geoff Flood, Chris Suddick, Peter Baugh, Sarabani Datta, Richard Sargent. The chairman welcomed everybody to the 41st AGM and announced that we would conduct the usual AGM business after the break, but first we had a talk from Richard Sargent from Chester AS. Richard told us that the talk was on The Astronomical observations of Henry Prescott, Deputy Registrar of the Diocese of Chester, who was born 9th June 1649 and died 9th June 1719 aged 70. A few years ago Richard attended a local history talk and found out that they knew of the era because of the diaries of a man called Henry Prescott. Interested he went to the library and found a 3 volume copy of the diaries. Henry was not an astronomer but did make quite a few astronomical entries in his diaries. The originals are loose pages and many are missing ,however from 1704 onwards they are just about complete. Henry Prescott was a lawyer by trade but he was also an antiquarian and a collector of antiquities including a large roman altar stone. He was appointed Deputy Registrar of the Diocese of Chester in 1686, his boss was Walter Pope who was also professor of astronomy at Oxford university, appointed by his brother in law John Wilkins scientist and co founder of the Royal Society. His first astronomical entry was the 26th January 1697. Indisposed after an evening with a friend where they consumed 17 pints of claret ,he spent most of the day abed. That evening after a stroll he was at Mr Robert Davies’s house and saw the moon through a telescope (the moon was only one day past full). Telescopes then were poor and it was probably a poor quality single lens refractor so they may not have seen much of interest.. His other astronomical entries included on 25th February 1706 an aurora and on 18th May 1710 he noted a bright meteor. In 1711 Henry also took on the post of registrar of the St Asaph diocese. His next entry was the total solar eclipse of 22nd April 1715 from the falcon coffee house which still stands as a public house. He next noted aurora on the 6th and 31st of March 1716, a halo around the moon on the 13th March 1717, aurora again on 30th March 1717 and 25th November 1718. On 19th March 1719 he reported a fire ball that he didn’t see himself as he was indoors at the time, but this was reported to him. The same phenomena was noted by Edmund Halley. Isaac Newton was put in charge of re-coinage and offered a job to Edmund Halley in the Chester mint so did Halley know of Henry Prescott?. In Henry’s diary on January 10th 1697 Henry reported spending the evening with Mr Davies and Mr Halley. Halley’s own letter of 26th October 1696 mentions a Mr Prescott and his alter stone as well as other items. The alter stone still exists and is on display at the Grosvenor museum in Chester. We then heard of Edmund Halley’s predictions and observations of the total lunar eclipse of 31st October 1696 and partial lunar eclipse of the 19th October 1697. We then broke for tea. In the business section of the meeting Paul Clark stated that next months talk would be on the South African trip he and Mike Cook had just taken. He also recommended the Sky and Telescope pocket sky Atlas. Over the summer the society surrendered its lease on the observatory site. Many thanks to Ged for sorting out the contractor and to Don, Chris and others for their trips to the tip with the excess rubbish. We now have the final paper work and the surrender of the lease is complete. The treasurer reported a £384 surplus over the year and at the year end in June the society had £1843, the surplus was due mainly to a tax refund on subs backdated several years and the sale of the binocular parallel mount. Since then the demolition and clearance of the old site at the cost of £1200, a cost of £200 for surrender of the lease, £430 for disconnection of the electric and the fact that we are owed £278 from powergen for overpayment of the electricity bill will leave the club with approximately £250. There was then a discussion on incomings and outgoings including subs , cost of scout hut, Delamere and the country fair. We were reminded that the Timperley fair is tomorrow and help was needed. The meeting then came to the election of committee members. Kevin Thurstan was re-elected as secretary, Richard Bullock was elected as the treasurer and Paul Clark was re-elected as chairman. The society thanked Mark Crossley for his work as treasurer over the past few years. We then discussed new ideas for future meetings. It was also noted that the secretary would take over responsibility for the society’s equipment list and that what was left of the 14 inch scope and its mount would be going to Moorley Green AS for storage. The next meeting will take place on Friday 6th October 2006 and we will still meet every Friday for a chat, tea and coffee at the scout hut. The meeting was then brought to a close. 6th October 2006 October The 419th Meeting of the Altrincham and District Astronomical Society, held at Timperley Village Scout hut on Friday 6th October 2006 at 8pm Those present were: Paul Clark, Kevin Thurstan, Richard Bullock Mark Crossley, Philip Masding, Paul Brierly, Geoffrey Walton, Graham Sinagola, Nick Dixon, Ged Birbeck, John Tipping, Roger Livermore, Peter Baugh, Colin Bowler, Geoff Flood, Mike Cook, Norman Thurstan, Nick Odam, Jordan Odam, Stephen McHugh, Ken Simons. (Total 21) The Chairman welcomed us all to the meeting and announced that this month Mike Cook and himself would be doing a presentation on what they did on their recent trip to Sutherland in South Africa. Mike began by telling us of his latest equipment changes and orders, he then began the first part of the evenings talk. Their first morning in South Africa saw a blood red sunrise as the sun rose through the distant cloud on the horizon. We were told that the man they were staying with Dave, got them into all the observatories on the SALT site and Mike went on to show us some pictures of and describe some of the ones they visited, including a tour of the SALT facility. He explained they were a 350 mile drive from Cape Town and that the observatories all do their own maintenance and re-aluminising in house. We were also given a description of the area and local town. Mike Informed us that they were given the keys to a large shed with a complete roll off roof containing a 16” LX 200 and a C14. He also told us to get the best view of the Milky Way was to lay down in the dirt road on the carpet they took from the boot of the hire car. We then stopped for a tea break. Paul restarted by describing how at the onset of darkness the Milky Way was right overhead, all the northern constellations were upside down and moved the wrong way across the sky because Sutherland was 32 degrees south of the equator. He explained that the Milky Way was so bright you could see your shadow by it but that even though the sky was not dark there was no light pollution. We were then shown various pictures of parts of and the whole of the Milky Way in colour and monochrome and given vivid descriptions. There was then time for some questions on what we had seen and heard of the trip. Next we covered the societies business The secretary said that the planned October trip to Delamere was not happening and that he was also waiting for news of a possible donation from the Altrincham Festival Committee. Paul mentioned that coming up were the Keilder Star party and Peak star party III. He told us that next month we would have a talk by Peter Schick and brought the meeting to a close. 1st December 2006 December The 421st Meeting of the Altrincham and District Astronomical Society, held at Timperley Village Scout hut on Friday 1st December 2006 at 8pm Those present were: Paul Clark, Kevin Thurstan, Mark Crossley, Tony Aremia, Don Utton, Norman Thurstan, Colin Eaves, Geoffrey Walton, Graham Sinagola, Nick Dixon, Ged Birbeck, Roger Livermore, Paul Brierly, Chris Suddick, Colin Bowler, Stephen McHugh, Mike Cook, Nick Odom, Jordan Odam. 1 other (total 20) The Chairman opened by welcoming everyone to the 421st meeting and told us that this evening would start with a little show & tell. Geoff Walton gave us a demonstration of his new Vixen Skypod with a 110mm modified Maksutov optical tube. This computer controlled mount comes with a planetarium unit which contains various astronomical catalogues. He went on to describe the set up and alignment procedures which were not as intuitive as he had hoped but eventually he got it moving, taking questions during the demonstration. Next was Paul Brierly showing his Vixen GPDX mount on a heavy Meade field tripod with a special Alt and Dec interface from Chris Heapy to help polar alignment. It has sky sensor PC and uses it to mount various scopes including 70mm Teleview ranger used with a web cam as a guide scope, Zenith Star 66mm for CCD work. He explained he had had some problems which Mike and Mark had sorted out for him before PSP3, the mount will take his SPX200 but not his 300. Paul Clark then showed us some photographs from peak star party III and reported on the weekends events. We then had a break. After the break Paul Clark then spent some time on a sky diary of what we should be able to see over the next month with various pieces of equipment. It was put to the meeting that we would not be using the room over the next two Fridays (either side of Christmas) and was stated that the next meeting would be Friday the 5th January 2007 and any offers of a talk would be considered. The meeting was then brought to a close.

Jodrell Bank Kielder Obsrvatory National Space Centre Royal Observatory Greenwich Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory Maunakea Observatories ASTRONOMICAL LOCATIONS Jodrell Bank, Macclesfield Jodrell Bank ~32 minutes (16 miles) by car from the Timperley Village Club £8.50 for 18-65 and £7.50 for over 65s/students (see more on the website ) Has a number of radio telescopes, including the 3rd largest steerable radio telescope: the Lovell Telescope Part of the MERLIN Array UNESCO World Heritage Site (see more on the website ) Part of the University of Manchester Hosts many events throughout the year (see more on the website ) Website: https://www.jodrellbank.net Webcam: http://www.jb.man.ac.uk/webcam/ ADAS Member Reviews Got a review to share? Contact Us! Kielder Observatory, Northumberland Kielder Obsrvatory ~3 hours and 8 minutes (167 miles) by car from the Timperley Village Club Prices vary depending on what you want to do (see more on the website ) Hosts over 700 events per year inside a nearly 580km² dark sky zone (2nd largest area of protected night sky in Europe) The observatory has no postcode, so use the What3Words reference ///tickles.path.tangling or the Google maps plus code 69JM+RM Kielder, Hexham Website: https://kielderobservatory.org ADAS Member Reviews Got a review to share? Contact Us! National Space Centre, Leicester National Space Centre ~1 hour and 52 minutes (96.3 miles) by car from the Timperley Village Club £15.50 for adults, £12.50 for over 60s and 5-16 year olds, and under 5s are free Houses one of only 3 known Soyuz spacecraft in the West A rocket tower houses the Blue Streak (nuclear strike/satellite rocket)) and Thor Able (USA 1958-1960 satellite launch rocket) rockets. Houses a large planetarium (the Sir Patrick Moore Planetarium) Website: https://spacecentre.co.uk ADAS Member Reviews Got a review to share? Contact Us! Look at ADAS' post about their visit to the National Space Centre in 2002 Click Here! Royal Observatory Greenwich, London Royal Observatory Greenwich ~3 hours and 55 minutes (214 miles) by car from the Timperley Village Club £16 for adults and £8 for children The birthplace of Greenwich Meridian, where longitude came into being (the International Prime Meridian passes through the site, along with other meridians, like the one OS maps are based on, 2.3m from the IPM, known as the Ordnance Survey Zero Meridian Founded in 1675 Home to the Observatory Time Ball, which was the first public time signal (made in 1833) Home to where time was standardised in the UK and then world-wide (Greenwich Mean Time or UTC). Houses many planetarium shows in the Peter Harrison Planetarium Houses a hyper-accurate chronometer Has a large telescope (the Altazimuth Pavilion) ADAS Member Reviews Got a review to share? Contact Us! Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory, La Palma, Spain Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory In La Palma which is an island in the Canary Islands (part of Spain) with multiple dark sky sites and beautiful skies (not to be confused with other places in the world called La Palma) Entry is free but you can get a private accredited Starlight Guide which will cost (N.B. This may be different at present due to Covid-19) Has 16 telescopes operated by people from all across the world Home to the Liverpool Telescope, operated by the University of Liverpool (you can request it to take pictures of the sky for you) Has the largest single-aperture optical telescope in the world (at present): the Gran Telescopio Canerias Started out with the Issac Newton Telescope from the Royal Greenwich Observatory, Sussex 2,396m above sea level, meaning you are above the clouds There are spectacular views when there are no clouds below Warnings: It can get quite cold There is 25% less oxygen (possibly not for those with anaemia or a serious lung/heart condition) There is nowhere to buy food so bring your own, the sun is pretty powerful so sun cream is needed It is only open to visitors in the day time Roads may be icy, so check there condition Roads bend a lot to get up to the observatory, although there is a bus Website: ​http://www.iac.es/en/observatorios-de-canarias/roque-de-los-muchachos-observatory Webcam ADAS Member Reviews Got a review to share? Contact Us! Maunakea Observatories, Hawaii, USA Maunakea Observatories On the island of Hawaii in the state of Hawaii in the USA Observatories and facilities aren't open to the public Has 13 telescopes operated by people from all across the world, including the United Kingdom Infra-Red Telescope On top of a dormant volcano It is 4,205m above sea level Warnings: It takes 2 hours to get from sea level to 4,205m, so altitude sickness is likely​ (look at the NHS page for altitude sickness for more information) There is 40% less air pressure, so you need to acclimatise Anyone in poor health should consult a doctor before visiting It is recommended that anyone with a lung/heart condition should not go up to the summit People under 13 shouldn't go since their bodies are still developing and are affected more rapidly when going to higher altitudes If planing to scuba dive, don't go up to the summit 24 hours before hand For more information, look at the Maunakea hazards booklet and the 'Visiting Maunakea ' video It is only open to visitors in the day time Only 4 wheel drive vehicles can drive to the summit beyond the visitor centre For more information on these and more, visit the website: http://www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis/visiting-mauna-kea/visiting-the-summit.html Websites: http://www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis/home.html /https://maunakeaobservatories.org​ Webcams ADAS Member Reviews Got a review to share? Contact Us! Got a different astronomical location you want to share? Contact Us!

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March April June September December MINUTES | 2012 2nd March 2012 March Members present:- Talk was by Geoff Flood entitled ‘Living and Working in Space’ A really enjoyable and informative talk and was thanked by everybody. Secretary was absent therefore no minutes from the previous meeting. The new venue,has been confirmed from April. The next meeting of ADAS will be held at Timperley Community Centre 121 Park Road Timperley at 8pm. This will be an open telescope night where members may bring their own scopes and get advice and instruction from more experienced members and share knowledge. Other events:- Wythenshawe Park Stargazers meeting Wednesday 7th March 6-9pm near to the horticultural centre in the park. Jodrell Bank imaging workshop 21st April Merseyside Astronomy group 12th May Other news and events have all been circulated by email previously but if any more information needed then please contact Geoff. Treasurers report:- We are £1300 in credit, although we have some bills to pay. AOB :- Keys for the Scout Hut need to be collected in and returned before we officially change premises. A volunteer is needed to move the metal cabinet from the Scout Hut to the Community Centre (Karin Rodgers volunteered her husband Kevin and car if needed ) - to be co-ordinated between Chris, Geoff and Kevin if needed. A reminder to those who wish to be kept on the email circulation list to make sure they give their email addresses to Geoff Flood to ensure they don’t miss out. Graham Cliff reminded everyone that it is the WWF Earth Hour on March 31st and a request was made for people to consider turning their lights off from 8.30pm – 9.30pm on this evening to support this. Chris thanked everybody for coming and the meeting was officially closed at 9.27pm 6th April 2012 April Present Chris Suddick (Chairman), Geoff Flood, Graham Cliff, Tony Aremia, Roger Thorp, Karin Rodgers, Brian Warrier, Kevin Rodgers, Eddie Bruce, Ben Gribbon, Stephen McHugh, Margaret Masterson, Michael Masterson, Norman Thurston, Geoff Walton, Peter Baugh, Ged Burbeck Total 16 Correspondence. A number of notices which have been circulated to members about various events, including Notification of Keele Observatory’s 50th birthday celebrations on 19th May and Wythenshawe Stargazers meting on TUESDAY 17th April. We were advised of the Neighbourhood Voluntary Sector Grant Scheme where grants of £200,000 are available in £50,000 lots with the suggestion that we might be able to make use of some of this money. It was decided, not to apply as we have no project in mind, however it might be worth considering in future years. Treasurer Funds are now transferred to the Barclay’s account. The FAS e-mailed to say that because we had missed the deadline for payment our subscription would be increased to £28, however Richard pointed out that the cheque had been posted prior to the deadline - we only paid £14. We were unable to have a tea/coffee break because although we had all the brewing materials there were no cups. We will have to remedy this situation. This evening was devoted to telescopes, an opportunity for more experienced members to illustrate the possibilities with somewhat more upmarket scopes and for the less experienced to get help with setting up their own scopes and learning about how best to use them. Some 6 or 8 scopes were on view from tiny portables to large heavy ones some with go-to’s others being purely DIY. A thoroughly enjoyable and, for most, profitable evening. Sadly, as might have been expected, there was a heavy layer of cloud making viewing impossible. The next meeting will be held on Friday 4th May 2012, 8:00pm at Timperley Community Centre when Graham Cliff will speak on the subject of Light Pollution. 1st June 2012 June Present Chris Suddick (Chairman), Geoff Flood, Colin Eaves, Kath Scott, Steve Holt, Peter Baugh, Christine Lavender, Tony Aremia, Stephen McHugh, Ben Gemmel, Richard Bullock, Phil Leigh, Graham Cliff, Andy Greenhow, Joshua Broomfield. Total 15 Richard Bullock spoke about what will be seen in the night sky in the coming months. The Transit of Venus, on 6th June, was discussed with illustrations of is path across the face of the Sun. To get a good view one needs to be high up because the sun will be close to the horizon. Various locations for viewing were mentioned. On July15th almost a grazing occultation with Jupiter passing close to the moon but we are too far North get the images of the Moon Mountains. Artificial satelites can be seen and the ISS will be around in the late evening. Have a look at “heavensabove”for more info. Saturn will be around for some time over the summer but Mars is moving away. August 12th is the annual visit of the Perseids when the shower of meteors will hopefully be visible. Cygnus and Lyra will be directly over head - lie on your back with your feet facing South. So there is plenty to see even if viewing conditions might not be ideal at this time of year. Richard was thanked for his talk by Chris. Items of business included: The monthly list of FAS meetings East Sussex Astronomy Festival, 5th June Transit of Venus 6th June, Windgather Rocks (03:30hrs) Dark Sky Society AGM, 16th June in Cambridge Wythenshawe Stargazers meeting, 12thJune There was a discussion about the website. The current website is now in order and looking quite good, however Ged and Chris will discuss the way forward for the future. The FAS has proposed having time on the 250 mm Telescope in Spain. Costs would depend on take up but could be as little as £13 p/a if all member societies contribute, this would give us around 6 - 7 hours scope time. We would need a free WiFi venue for members to view. It was agreed that we would show interest in principle, up to £30 - £40 p/a. The Secretary to inform the FAS of our interest. The Chairman then closed the meeting. 7th September 2012 September ADAS - MINUTES OF 48th AGM (477th Society meeting) Held on Friday 7th September 2012, at Timperley Community Centre. PRESENT Chris Suddick (Chairman), Geoff Flood, Graham Cliff, Steve Holt, Tony Aremia, Raj Goel, Peter Baugh, Stephen McHugh, Joshua Broomfield, James Brown, Eddie Bruce, Ewan Hill Norris, Phil Reilly, Richard Bullock, Geoff Walton, Phil Leigh, Andy Greenhow. APOLOGIES Brian Warrier, Graham Sinagola. APPROVAL OF 2011 AGM MINUTES The minutes of the 2011 Minutes which were circulated electronically and were approved. MATTERS ARISING There were no arising matters ELECTION OF OFFICERS The Chairman thanked the outgoing Officers for their services over the past year. The following Officers were then elected for the year 2012 -2013. Chairman: Chris Suddick Secretary Geoff Flood Treasurer Richard Bullock Speakers Secretary Peter Baugh Minutes Secretary Graham Sinagola. All the above elected unopposed CORRESPONDENCE The Federation of Astronomical Societies supplied: • FAS Society programmes for September • Public Liability Insurance - we do not have it and although enquiries regarding cost have been made it is felt that we probably do not need it. This matter will be discussed at a later meeting • Details of the FAS Annual Convention in Cambridge • Liverpool AS sent a list North West Events (all from LAS!) Geoff informed the meeting that, former member, Dave Timperley's wife recently died suddenly. a number of members asked for Dave's contact details. TREASURER'S REPORT Richard presented the Accounts (attached to hard copy) and reported that He had made a loan to the Society to tide us over the period when a large payment had to be paid to First Timperley Scouts for back rent at a time when the funds were being moved from the Yorkshire Bank to Barclays. No interest is charged on this money. We have still not arranged regular payment to G Force for the rent of the room at Timperley Community Centre. (Geoff was asked to provide Richard with contact details) Fortunately we had speakers expenses of only £10 last year compared with £90 the previous year, this was because we had a number of talks from members thus making cost savings. ADAS running costs include £20 per month for room hire plus FAS fees plus speaker expenses. Richard reported that we only had 12 paying members last year which at current rates is not really sufficient to break even on the year. In reply to a question he estimated that we would need probably 15 members to break even. It was agreed that Annual Subscriptions should remain at £20 per annum for senior members and £1 fore junior members aged 16 and under. ANY OTHER BUSINESS There was some discussion about having active astronomy. Chris stated that in the past we have visited various sites such as Teggs Nose near Macclesfield and Llyn Brennig in North Wales . Andy Greenhow, who teaches at Altrincham Girls Grammar School in Bowdon, felt that he could probably get permission to use the school grounds as a local observing point. He will make enquiries but it was felt that for a first step this might be a useful site and then see how the members feel about going further afield. Following the AGM Chris Suddick gave a talk on "The Missions to Mars" relating the efforts to man's efforts to photograph and to discover more about the red planet right up to the latest "Curiosity" pictures. There being no other business the meeting was closed. 7th December 2012 December Minutes of the 479th meeting, 7th December 2012 PRESENT Chris Suddick (Chairman), Geoff Flood, Eddie Bruce, Ewan Norris, Steve Holt, Andy Greenhow, Raj Goel, Geoff Regan (LAS), Dave Owen (LAS), Peter Baugh, Margaret Masterson, Ged Birbeck, Pat Gothard, Tony Aremia, Graham Cliff, Colin Eaves, Geoff Walton. Total 17 Chris Suddick introduced Dave Owen of Liverpool AS who was to speak on "Making a Telescope" The project went back to 1997. Someone said "let's build a telescope". They had an 18" mirror and decided to grind a 30 inch F4 lens with a 10 foot focal length - just like that! An appropriate lump of plate glass was acquired and they went to work using a Heath Robinson workshop ie a garage with bits of scaffolding , rope and a drill. The Lens was ground using a grinding wheel on the drill using pitch & Cerium Oxide as a grinding medium with a good deal of trial and error The 'scope was completed in February 1998. The next project was to grind a30inch F6 lens, this time using plate glass which is less liable to deformation. In 2005 a 20 inch F3.9 and a 20 inch mirror was produced. All the time, with experience, the team was getting more sophisticated in the measuring of shape and accuracy of the finished products. Similarly they developed an awareness of the need for proper support for the lenses. The final effort was ground to within 0.1 mm and was first used in public in 2010. Dave and Geoff were thanked by Chris for a fascinating talk. Following a break for tea, on this occasion accompanied by mince pies and iced doughnuts, there was discussion regarding the January 2013 meeting - it was decided that this would be a "Club Evening".