The monthly meeting of the Peterborough Astronomical Association's (PAA) will take place February 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” 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 11 in the series, “Deep Sky Objects - Part 2”. We leave behind the easily observable objects like stars, gas and dust in Part 1. Instead, this month, we explore the most energetic and enigmatic phenomena the Universe has to offer. Size matters in astronomy. And as a result the end state of a star, when nuclear fusion at its core ceases, produces different exotic objects. Almost none of these are observable by amateur astronomers, but they intrigue us nonetheless. None is more alluring than black holes. Once theoretical, we now have definitive evidence for their existence and central importance in the evolution of our Universe. Join us this month to examine these wondrous entities. Plan to join us and discover the wonders of the night sky that await you. 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 club member, Seán Dunne , entitled ”Messier List”. This presentation will deal with how to observe and record the objects on Charles Messier’s “List of Deep Sky Objects”, which since the 19th. century been regarded as an excellent way for aspiring astronomers to hone their observing skills, become familiar with the operation of their equipment and learn their way around the night sky. The “List” contains 110 objects, comprised of galaxies, nebula and star clusters. Seán will focus primarily on these aspects of “Messier’s List” but will also touch on the choice of equipment, on observing locations and the famous “Messier Marathon”. Why not check this out? The price is right…it costs you nothing but your time.
Also, don’t miss “Telescope Roundtable” this month, as member Walter Gebhart will give a short talk about “Walter’s Telescopic Start”.
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 cost. All we ask is that you register in advance at https://www.peterboroughastronomy.com/zoom_register.php This is an all ages meeting and the venue is totally barrier free. 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.
