Most of the time, in astronomy we tend to be fascinated with the wonders of science and technology that allow us to discover facts and indeed explore this magnificent universe around us. In March it was therefore a refreshing change to look back at how ancient man used the heavenly bodies as indicators of periods of time, leading on to the much more ‘modern’ idea of a sundial.
Then in April we switched back to the planets and watched a Brian Cox DVD which compared and contrasted conditions on Earth with Mars from the time they were first created through to today.
Building on the successful Artemis 2 flight, we now talk with excitement about once again landing humans on the Moon and possibly going on to do the same with Mars, extending our stay to long-term. So I think that May lends itself naturally to the question of how realistic is this ‘dream’? There will be a presentation based on a book written by a well-respected scientist who analyses the issues and sets out his beliefs on how they can all be overcome.
We meet on the fourth Thursday of every month from 10am to 12 noon in the downstairs back room of Southwell Library. The dates of the next few meetings are 28th May, 25th June and 23rd July.
We try to cater for beginners by not making the sessions too technical but with enough content to stimulate the more knowledgeable. After coffee the audience get the chance to ask questions, comment or offer views, which is, I think, an important part of our sessions.
As we move into the next financial year, I hope that we can keep all of our loyal membership which has steadily grown in numbers.