The monthly meeting of the Peterborough Astronomical Association's (PAA) will take place November 3rd as a “Hybrid Meeting”, both online and at our traditional physical location of the Rotary Education Centre/Guest Services Building, Riverview Park Zoo. Even these troubled times cannot stop the spread of information and knowledge by the members of the PAA. 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 welcome to do so at the Zoo, but “masking” maybe required, please and thank you!

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 18 in the series, “Rocks from the Sky”, concerns alien visitors – no, not the little green men kind.  What we will be investigating on November 3rd are cosmic travellers of the abiotic kind - meteorites.  We will explore what a meteorite is and where they come from.  The different types of meteorites and the major events that have shaped our world will be discussed.  Finally, we will consider the existential risk posed by these interlopers and possible deflection strategies available to us. 

In the interactive hands-on segment volunteers will help us understand the phases of our Moon.  Using simple props you will learn how the interaction of light and orbits combine to produce the changing face of our nearest celestial neighbour.

Come join us at the PAA’s next Novice Astronomy Class to learn about the night sky and take your first step in becoming acquainted with astronomy. Join us anytime!

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. there will be a brief meeting. The main event for this month will be a presentation by PAA member Boyd Wood on the “Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory – CHIME”. Located in southern British Columbia, this a radio astronomers dream come true. This unique site is also uniquely Canadian. Come and listen to Boyd’s talk about this one of a kind research facility’ 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.