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Astronomy Highlights
Astronomy Highlights
These articles have been written by members and invited guests of the Lethbridge Astronomy Society for publication on this website and select publications in the community.
Saskatchewan Summer Star Party 2011
Written by Norm Baum Thursday, 01 September 2011 18:13
The sky was clear and dark and the temperature hot! This year’s Saskatchewan Summer Star Party (SSSP) August 25 – 27, 2011 was definitely a star viewing extravaganza.
From our arrival in Cypress Hills on Tuesday, Aug 23rd until our departure on Aug 28th, we were treated to almost continuous clear skies. There were a couple of rain showers but they disappeared quickly. We were also spectators to a lightning show off to the east of our viewing area.
Even though our setup and viewing area was moved to the baseball diamond as a result of construction in the Meadows Campground, the park staff ensured that we were as light free as possible.
One of the highlights of the event was the opening and dedication of the Dark Sky Observatory. This observatory was facilitated largely be the efforts of the “Friends of Cypress Hills”. This facility will enable the Park Staff to provide astronomy experiences to the general public and therefore generate an understanding of the universe.
The various lecturers were very interesting and informative. In addition to the guest speakers many new ideas are passed on by fellow attendees, not to mention the many and varied telescopes and accessories that were being used.
This star party is a precious jewel that should not be missed. Make a note on your calendar to attend in 2012. The dates are: August 16 – 19.
The following photographs were taken by N. Baum at the SSSP 2011:
Light Pollution - From Problem to Solution
Written by Rena Woss Sunday, 29 May 2011 20:39
The following presentation was prepared by Lethbridge Astronomy Society Member Rena Woss. It outlines the major problems caused by careless use of lighting in our environment. A number of communities, including the City of Lethbridge are taking steps to correct the problem.
Click on any of the thumbnails below to start the presentation from that point.
The Magic Of A Total Solar Eclipse
Written by Gord Falconer Monday, 04 May 2009 00:00
At New Moon, the alignment of Sun, Moon and Earth isn’t perfect; the Moon usually passes above or below the Sun, although we can’t see it, owing to the Sun’s glare.
But occasionally, the Moon passes directly in front of the Sun; in effect, the Moon casts its shadow on the Earth. If you are in the shadow, you may see the Sun, with a safe solar filter, partially eclipsed; it looks as if a bite has been taken out of the Sun.
If you are lucky enough to be on the narrow strip of Earth where there is a total eclipse, the Moon completely blocks the Sun for a few minutes; the sky darkens, and the beautiful solar corona, otherwise invisible, can be seen.
These rare and beautiful events are among nature’s most awe-inspiring. Don’t miss an opportunity to see one.
Next partial solar eclipse visible from Lethbridge: May 20, 2012
Next total solar eclipse visible from Lethbridge: Aug. 23, 2044
For more informatiion:
Treat Yourself To A Star Party
Written by Rena Woss Sunday, 26 April 2009 00:00
Summer is around the corner and during this time of the year, astronomy clubs the world over have outdoor gatherings called Star Parties! If you have never attended, you might want consider it. It’s an opportunity to experience the splendor of the night sky with people who have a passion for it. Typically star parties are held in a dark sky site, away from light pollution. Participants bring telescopes and binoculars of all types and sizes and spend the nights observing planets, galaxies and other deep sky wonders. Larger parties offer lectures, workshops, swap meets, exhibitions, contests, tours and more.
A wonderful party to attend is the Saskatchewan Summer Star Party hosted by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada - Saskatoon and Regina Centres. This event is usually held in August every year at the Cypress hills dark sky preserve.
For more information visit Saskatchewan Summer Star Party
Andromeda Galaxy
Written by Rena Woss Monday, 06 April 2009 00:00
The universe contains trillions of vast islands of stars that we call galaxies. One of the easiest and most rewarding to observe is Andromeda. At 2.5 million light years away, it is one of our closest galactic neighbors. Andromeda is so large and bright that on a moonless night, away from the glare of city lights, you can actually see it with your own eyes as a faint smudge in the night sky. In the city, a pair of binoculars will help you easily find it. As you can see from this picture, Andromeda has a beautiful spiral shape to it, much as we imagine our own Milky Way galaxy to have. It is named after a princess in Greek mythology, and can be found in the constellation of Andromeda. Visit us at the Lethbridge Astronomy Society the last Saturday of the month (September to March) to see Andromeda and many other celestial wonders of the night sky.