Always wanted to enjoy the night sky to it’s fullest, but wondered where to start? Avoid expensive or frustrating mistakes – learn from ours! This 2 part short course provides what is needed to choose the right gear for the job, and start on the rewarding, enlightening journey of amateur astronomy!

Courses usually start on a Monday evening, 7pm. Our theory and “lights on” demonstrations are held at the Aitkenvale Library meeting room – 4 Petunia St, Aitkenvale. When facing the library entrance from the car park, the meeting room is to the far right. It is part of the main building, with the entrance just around the corner adjacent to the childcare centre.

Course Details:

The course will be over 2 evenings. The first evening will feature a power point presentation covering all the course topics (see below). Various telescopes, mounts and accessories will be provided to help clarify the presentation, and provide “hands on” familiarity. There is no need to bring your own telescope to this presentation, however you are welcome to in case of any specific questions.

The second evening will be conducted at our dark sky site at Oak Valley. We aim for the following Friday, subject to weather. This session will involve the practical application of setting up mounts, telescopes, alignment and how to find objects. Everyone will be able to find selected objects by the end of this evening. Club telescopes will be available but you may also bring your own.

Topics:

• Telescope Basics
• Telescope Types
• Telescope Mounts
• Set up procedure for mount and telescope
• Alignment procedure
• How to find objects in the sky
• Observing techniques
• What can and can’t be seen – and why
• What objects are there to look at – where to start you astronomy adventure

The course cost is $140 and includes club membership (through to the end of the current financial year). As a club member, all of the club telescopes are available for use at Oak Valley (some do require a little “on the spot” training to handle).

Both evenings will be 2 to 3 hours duration.  Bring an open mind, and plenty of curiosity! There are toilets at both locations and refreshments will be available (tea, coffee and biscuits).

Courses are subject to a minimum of 3 confirmed attendees. In the interests of proper attention and resources, classes are limited to 8 at a time.

If you wish to register for this course please provide your payment via direct deposit and confirm payment via email. Please also send your phone number.

Upcoming courses are advertised on our facebook page. We look forward to meeting you!

More info coming soon!