News Notes

Friends' Night at OOS

Several dozen members of the Friends of MIRA enjoyed an evening of observing with the 36-inch telescope on Chews Ridge in October. While encroaching clouds required us to close up 45 minutes before the planned end of the evening, we observed a number of splendid deep-sky objects, enjoyed some tasty food, and admired the wonderful views from Chews Ridge.

Another event is planned for the return of good weather in the spring.

Friends of MIRA chat with MIRA Administrator Leslie Tau- Holzhausen while awaiting nightfall on Chews Ridge

 

Discount subscriptions to Sky & Telescope available

Members of the Friends of MIRA may subscribe to the leading amateur astronomy magazine, Sky and Telescope, at the discount rate of $29.95 for a one-year subscription (the current regular price is $39.95).

Subscription information and payment must go through the MIRA office, and we ask that interested Friends send in their payment and subscription information by January 15, 2003.

For more information, call Leslie at 883-1000.

 

MIRA Docents organize educational events

There is new energy in MIRA's educational program thanks to the VEGA (Volunteer Educational Guides to Astronomy) team, including Donna Dulo, Tamara Homan, Brian Jacobson, and Tom Lougheed, with MIRA Administrator Leslie Tau-Holzhausen providing coordination and support.

Since the start of the school year, numerous events, including star parties, star party campouts, classroom visits, and Lyceum classes have been offered to Monterey County youngsters and their families.

The VEGAs' mission is to encourage community interest in astronomy by helping people to learn about the sky. If you're interested in helping or in joining the team, call Leslie at 883-1000 or send her e-mail at ab@mira.org.

MIRA Docent Tom Lougheed addresses the crowd at a Tularcitos School star party

 

Telescope Making Workshop

A group of MIRA amateur astronomers meets regularly on Tuesdays at MIRA to craft telescopes and accessories. The group has produced the 17.5" Ralph Meeker Telescope as well as smaller instruments, and is now working on equatorial platforms for Dobsonian telescopes. They will begin working shortly with two students from the Santa Catalina School on a project comparing different telescope configurations. If you're interested in joining this active and creative group, send Paul Franks an e-mail at ileenepaul@earthlink.net.

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Last Updated 12/14/02 DMC