A few days ago, I was fortunate to meet the dynamic David Woods and his team from Hants Astro.
David founded this new astronomy group, just about six months ago. But already, it’s well established and growing fast. The fact that membership is free, probably helps!
Public Observing
What’s really good, is they run regular public observing sessions, using their own varied collection of telescopes and other equipment. You can bring your own equipment too, of course, if you have some and it’s portable.
The observing nights are held every two weeks or so, at two carefully chosen and fairly dark sites – Butser Ancient Farm and INTEC, both in Hampshire.
You don’t have to be member to go along, but you do have to reserve an observing pass in advance. For some sessions, there is a small fee, payable on the night.
If you are within striking distance, this could be a great chance to do some practical astronomy with like-minded, experienced people on hand to help out.
Monthly Download Magazine
The other striking thing David does, is to publish an impressive monthly magazine, you can download from their website.
Called “Look Up!” and now running to about 20 pages, it seems to get bigger every month. It’s packed full of articles, great colour images and useful astronomy information.
And did I mention? … the magazine is free too! Not surprising, the number of copies downloaded is increasing by 30% a month, according to David.
My Suggestion..
Definately check out the Hants Astro website and the Look Up! magazine. And perhaps get yourself along to one of the observing nights, if you possibly can.