The Monthly Meeting of the Peterborough Astronomical Association's (PAA) will take place May 3rd as a “Hybrid Meeting”, both online and at our traditional physical location of the Rotary Education Centre/Guest Services Building, Riverview Park Zoo. Nothing can stop the spread of information and knowledge by the members of the PAA, including our ability to accommodate those that can’t physically be at the meeting. Our work around involves using a Zoom platform. To participate via Zoom, just make sure that in advance, you opened a (free) Zoom account on whatever iphone or tablet or device you wish to participate with and then contact  https://www.peterboroughastronomy.com/zoom_register.php for the password and link to our evenings classes and presentations.  If you wish to participate in person you are more than welcome to do so at the Zoo.

Our “Novice Astronomy Classes” are focused on the practical aspects of learning about astronomy. You will be introduced to astronomy related subjects at a very basic level, but in a logical sequence.  This month's session is a continuation of our Astronomy Class Series, Lesson 22 in the series, “Exoplanets”, we will explore the history behind exoplanet detection, the different discovery methods used, the types of exoplanets and the utilization of space based observatories that has revolutionized this segment of astronomy investigation. Are we alone in the Universe?  Philosophers and astronomers have pondered this question for millennia.  If an advanced civilization were to exist out there they would need a place to hang their hat - if such a thing were required.  Chances are that this “somewhere” would reside on a planet.  Our solar system, as far as we know, does not contain any habitable planets with sentient beings beyond Earth.  Consequently, the search for planets around other stars in the Milky Way, called exoplanets, has been a longstanding goal.  As with many good ideas, technology lags behind.  It has taken dedicated astronomers, large telescopes and powerful computers to make the first confirmed detection of an exoplanet in 1992. 

In the interactive hands-on segment volunteers will help us to understand the size and scale of our solar system.  Using simple props you will learn about the distances between our planets and the immensity of space. 

If you are even remotely interested, be on-line by 6:00 p.m. to see what you can learn about the Universe around you. The classes will run about 45 minutes each session, before our regular meeting resumes. There’s no obligation to stay for the meeting that follows, but you are more than welcome to if you wish.

Shortly after 7:00 p.m. we will have a special Zoom presentation by, past PAA member, Peter McMahon on “Arizona’s Kitt Peak Observatory Site”. Peter will give us a live virtual tour of this amazing location atop a mountain in the American Southwest. World famous for its research and discoveries, the telescopes on Kitt Peak are a sight to behold and Peter will be our guide. As manager of the visitor services program at Kitt Peak, Peter is well positioned to give us an insider’s view of this incredible facility. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to see what few people ever have the chance to see.

Why not check this out? You don’t need to be a member to see this presentation. The price is right…it costs you nothing but your time.  

The Sky This Month will be posted on our club website for all to access.

There will also be the usual opportunities to have your questions answered, at no charge. All we ask is that you either come and see us in person at the Zoo or register in advance at https://www.peterboroughastronomy.com/zoom_register.php. This is an all ages meeting and  the venue is totally barrier free at the Zoo or just relax at home and “live and learn” as they say. Also, you don’t need a telescope to participate, but a curious mind helps.