The Monthly Meeting of the Peterborough Astronomical Association's (PAA) will kick off a New Year and will take place April 4th as a “Hybrid Meeting”, both online and in-person 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.phpfor 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. In this month’s Novice Astronomy Class we begin our Solar System Series, next with a look at our nearest planet to the Sun, Mercury. We will take a look at the planet by the numbers and its physical characteristics, including its orbit, size, location and composition. It is surprisingly difficult to investigate Mercury up close. However, thanks to some probes we have detailed images of its surface features, mineralogy and atmospheric composition. Finally, we will discuss observing opportunities and strategies for the upcoming year. Mercury has an interesting tale to tell.
Our hands-on segment will focus on the distance scale of the inner terrestrial planets. You are invited to join us April 4th to gain a better understanding of our solar system’s smallest planet. Tune in to be enlightened!
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 Zoom presentation by Amy Oliver, the Center For Astrophysics-Harvard & Smithsonian Public Affairs Officer, at the Fred L. Whipple Observatory (Mount Hopkins, AZ), the talk will explore the FLW Observatory Complex in detail. This is a unique opportunity to get an inside look at a huge astronomical research facilities in southern Arizona and not have to leave Peterborough or for some of you, even the comfort of your own homes. You won’t want to miss this rare opportunity. Whether joining us on-line or in-person you will not be disappointed and you will learn a lot! Why not check this out? You don’t need to be a member to see this presentation or anything else listed. 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.
