San Diego Astronomy Association

San DiegoAstronomy AssociationCelebrating Over 50 Years of Astronomical Outreach

http://www.sdaa.orgA Non-Profit Educational Association

P.O. Box 23215, San Diego, CA 92193-3215

September 2019

Next SDAA Business MeetingSeptember 10th at 7:00pm

7270 Trade StreetSan Diego, CA 92121

Next Program Meeting September 18th at 7:00pm

Mission Trails Regional ParkVisitor and Interpretive Center1 Father Junipero Serra Trail

CONTENTSSeptember 2019, Vol LVII, Issue 9Published Monthly by the San Diego Astronomy AssociationIncorporated in California in 1963P r o g r a m M e e t i n g . . . . . . . . . . . 1A u g u s t M i n u t e s . . . . . . . . . 2D o u b l e S TA R S S e m i n a r. . . . . . . . . . . 5J u l i a n S t a r f e s t . . . . . . . . . . . 6SDAA Out reach to Ch ina . . . . . 11R T M C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 6S D A A C o n t a c t s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 1N A S A N i g h t S k y N o t e s . . . . . . 2 2A s t r o n o m y C a r t o o n . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 4

Newsletter DeadlineThe deadline to submit articles

for publication is the15th of each month.

September Program Meeting

Date: September 18, 2019Speaker: Dave WoodTopic: TARO - History and evolution, how it works and what we are currently doing with it

San Diego Astronomy Association (SDAA) sponsors speakers on a wide range of astronomy topics on the third Wednesday of every month at the Mission Trails Regional Park Visitors Center. The program meeting begins at 7:00pm. Each attendee receives one free door prize ticket. After announcements and a small amount of business, the audience is treated to the featured presentation. At the close of the meeting the door prizes are presented. The event is open to the public. The Mission Trails Regional Park Visitors Center is at One Fr. Junipero Serra Trail, San Diego CA 92119. Call the park at 619-668-3281 for more information or visit http://www.mtrp.org

https://calendar.google.com/calendar/[email protected]&ctz=America/Los_

Link to Outreach Calendar

Dave been with the club since 1991. He has been on the Board since 2011, and held positions as director, treasurer and club president.

Dave has worked on TARO since it’s inception in 2014.

The Annual BBQ at TDS will be on the 28th of September.

http://www.sdaa.org

https://calendar.google.com/calendar/[email protected]&ctz=America/Los_

San Diego Astronomy Association

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San Diego Astronomy Association Board of Directors Meeting August 20, 2019 – unapproved and subject to review

1. Call to Order

The meeting was called to order at 7:00pm with the following board members in attendance: Dave Wood, President; Steve Hallman, Vice President; Bill Nguyen, Corresponding Secretary; Brian McFarland, Recording Secretary; Gene Burch, Treasurer; Mike Chasin, Director; Dave Decker, Director. Members in attendance: Dan Kiser, Erik Davies, and Mark Elliott.

2. Approval of Last Meeting Minutes

July meeting minutes were approved.

3. Priority / Member Business a. None.

4. Treasurer’s & Membership Report

a. Treasurer’s report approved. b. Ed R. sold some telescopes and equipment, and Gene B. deposited the checks in July as donations, since the

scopes were donated (per our accountant). c. All our tax information is in the accountant’s hands, all the corrections have been made and she'll have them

ready when Gene gets back on the 19th. He'll fill out our raffle forms when he gets back as well. d. We should consolidate some of our accounts – for instance JSF; combine it into the general account.

5. Standard Reports a. Site Maintenance – It was recommended that we include a work party to deal with weeds and ruts at the BBQ.

Jerry H. tentatively agreed to lead that effort. b. Observatory/Loaner Scope Report – The Lipp scope continues to perform well. c. Private Pad Report

1. We currently have three free private pads and two people on the waiting list, both current pad lessee's who are looking to upgrade to darker parts of the site.

2. Submission of preliminary edits to pad modification procedures delayed for one month. d. Program Meetings

17 July Guest Speaker/Topic: - Speaker: Jack Lightholder - Presentation: Roving the Red Planet - Attendees: 62

Current Program Meeting Petty Cash (as of 18July19): $413 Previous Report $445 (9July19) Unintentional One-time Reduced Ticket Price Expenses Since Previous Report (as of 18Jul19) $35.90 Snacks & Coffee; $18.23 for 30 pair 3D Glasses; $38.75 for Handcart, Storage Box; $21.54 for Tickets, Raffle Container. Upcoming Programs: 21 Aug - Steve Hallman // Why we Know Dark Matter & Dark Energy Exist // Confirmed 18 Sept - Dave Wood // TARO // Confirmed 16 Oct - Dr. Bill Welsh // Circumbinary Exoplanets // Confirmed, Nominating Com. Elect. 20 Nov - Rob Zellem // Exoplanets - TES & WFIRST // Confirmed, Board, Rec. Sect, Treasurer Elect.

e. AISIG – Greg Crinklaw was the featured speaker and it was well attended. f. Newsletter Report – Andrea continues to do stellar work. g. Website Report – If someone sends pictures from JSF to the webmaster, he can post them to the website. Also

working with John Downing to get TDS seeing conditions on the website, and it’s now up and running.


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h. Social Media Report – Nothing new to report for social media. i. Outreach Report – No cancellations in July, partly because the evening weather has cooperated and partly

because we have substituted classroom “hands on” astronomy for the schools when we lose the sky. The second Lake Morena County Park event, hosted by Ben Grunbaum, was a great night, with good sky until about mid-night, and light but enthusiastic attendance by campers. Coming up in the next month we have SPIE, Borrego Springs Library, KQ Ranch, Green Valley Falls, Dixon Lake, and Mt. Helix. All of these are in addition to our regular monthly events. Note: The totals from last month under reported the yearly total due to a glitch in the spreadsheet. That has been corrected in the numbers below.

Totals for July: Events Completed 13.0 Events Cancelled 0.0 Public Attendance 545.0 Private Attendance 448.0 Total Attendance 993.0 Mem Support: 71.0 Average: Mem/Event: 5.5

Year to Date since January 1 Completed Events since January 1: 68.0 Cancelled Events since January 1: 21.0 Events Scheduled since January 1: 89 Public Attendees since Jan 1: 3010.0 Private Attendees since Jan 1: 3061.0 Total Attendees since Jan 1: 6071.0

j. TARO Report – TARO is functional. Collecting data for TESS and deep sky images. We continue to have

support issues with ACP. Testing other trial versions of automation software. Discussion followed that the impressive scientific and educational accomplishments performed by TARO are not being disseminated to the club. We need a monthly report in the newsletter describing these things.

k. Merchandise Report – No report. l. Cruzen Report

1. Worm stall issue has been fixed, G11 mount is visual-ready. The Cruzen was open during Member’s night (7/27). Slewing was much smoother, but the worm does not sound healthy.

2. Bill reported experimenting with modifying the sidereal rate (RA divisor) to compensate for periodic drift. Bill reported that a 150% sidereal rate works as a temporary fix for visual observing. This resulted in a lengthy discussion about what this problem might be. Much disagreement that the worm is the cause, and much confusion regarding the 150% sidereal rate (Gemini II doesn’t offer a 150% sidereal setting). It was agreed that the Board would look into this further.

3. Cassegrain – Bill reported that he called a few more machine shops capable of boring dumbbell weights and was quoted $400 for CNC lathe job. Still looking. An ad posting has been created for counterweights on AstroMart.


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Restrooms at TDS

Just a reminder that the men’s restroom is on the north side of the building. The women’s restroom is on the south side of the building. However, since the water heater in the men’s room does not allow enough access for a wheelchair, the women’s restroom is also the ADA compliant restroom for all persons who need an ADA compliant facility.

4. The east wall has been painted green to mask the vinyl adhesive that had melted. Temperatures inside the building reach 109ºF, dangerously high for sensitive electronics and optical equipment. Further insulation was suggested, but it was felt that more insulation might make matters worse – it will just trap heat in the building.

m. Astronomical League Report – No report. n. Julian StarFest Report – The 2019 Julian StarFest was a complete success. We had 247 campers, estimated

>1300 attendees at the free star party, and sold out the Palomar Tour and RV spaces. JSF Merchandise booth and raffle sales also exceeded projections. We received many positive comments about JSF, SDAA, the Palomar Tour and the Speaker presentations. All the vendors were thrilled at the business they did on Saturday OPT and Meade said they’d be back and Celestron (and possibly TeleVue) will be there next time. The Menghinis are very happy and want us back – we are to meet with them to pick a date for next year (might be June). Woody was also ecstatic with the public interest and is looking forward to next year. A BIG thanks to the SDAA Board, the JSF Committee and JSF Volunteers for bringing back this much-loved event!! Preliminary financial estimates show approximate gross proceeds were $11k and the net was $4,900.

6. Old Business

a. Electrical Upgrade – Still in progress. b. Audit Committee Review – Complete – no issues. Recommendation was provided to shift funds to a different

institution with a higher return. c. Other old business – None.

7. New Business

a. Received a status report from SDSU regarding the Lucas Scholarship – it is doing exceedingly well. b. Call for new business – None.

8. Adjournment Adjourned at 8:30pm.

Lipp Telescope Training By Ed Rumsey

Have you wanted to operate a telescope with significant light gathering capabilities? The club’s 22” Lipp telescope is just such an instrument. Introductory training on the observatory and telescope will be held after the SDAA Bar-B-Que. Those interested, should meet me at the observatory no later than 6:30 pm. If you are uncertain about your interests, you may utilize the session as an information gathering exercise. The course will cover preparations for a star party, opening/closing of the observatory, and basic telescope operation. Upon completion of the class, the attendees will schedule a comprehensive evening of observing prior to being added to the Active Users list. While operation is limited to contributing membership of greater than one-year duration, the class, space permitting, will welcome everyone. The course is expected to last 45 minutes – just as nautical twilight ends. Reservations are not required. My contact information is: 858.722.3846, and [email protected]. I look forward to seeing you.


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Join our DoubleSTARSTM seminar this fall – be a published scientist by spring

Boyce-Astro will be conducting and supporting the DoubleSTARSTM astronomy research seminars online and in classrooms for college and high school students again this fall with a new twist – a free preparation online course.

• 5th year – over 300 students and 40 papers so far – get started now

You will experience the scientific process from proposal all the way through to publication.

• Propose and conduct original research in astrometry as a team member

• Complete a peer-reviewed

research paper accepted for publication

START NOW WITH our FREE IntroSTARSTM self-paced online course

• Pass the qualifying quiz by September 10 based on IntroSTARSTM

• Then join the DoubleSTARSTM seminar on September 18

• For a video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUmXWyr7DNI&feature=youtu.be For

even more info and to sign up, go to:

http://boyce-astro.org/doublestars/

BUILD YOUR RESUME: BE AN AUTHOR OF A SCIENTIFIC PAPER

www.boyce-astro.org


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2019 Julian StarFest

We’re Back! After a 2-year absence, the 2019 Julian StarFest was a complete success. The event was, once again, held on the beautiful grounds of the Menghini Winery. There were 257 campers during the four-day event, that went from Thursday, August 1 to Sunday, August 4. We were joined by an estimated 1300 visitors during the public star party held on Saturday, August 3.

The event featured a behind the scenes tour of the Palomar Observatory, 2-days of illuminating speaker presentations, day and night presentations at Woody’s mobile observatory, a raffle drawing, and a host of telescope, crafts, and food vendors.

Some of the positive comments received included:

• I just wanted to reach out and say THANK YOU SO MUCH for hosting such a wonderful event. We at Meade had a great time and enjoyed every moment of it. Everything ran so smoothly; and the crowd was great. It was such a pleasure meeting you both and we’re excited for JSF 2020! Thank you again and best wishes to you both. Until next time! - April Bihum, Meade Instruments

• Loved having you; and yes, we would like to see Starfest continue. You did a great job - very organized crew. We Thank you. – Toni and Michael Menghini

• Sandy and Dan, I want to thank you and your entire crew for the great time had by my family at the wonderful JSF. I know it is a lot of hard work, but the end results were amazing. Thank again, Yours in Scouting - Edward Beterbide, San Diego County Boy Scouts of America

• We got in late, and it was nearly dark, so I ended up setting up at the back of our rental car. I did walk around the event and saw more people and campers last Saturday than I can recalled. From that perspective alone, I have to say this seems to have been a success. I also just want to thank you and Sandy for driving this event the way you did this year. I am glad that JSF is back on track. – William Chellis, JSF Committee Member

• Congratulations on a successful event; and thanks for the info & images that I'll include in the 21 August 2019 Program Meeting - Steve Hallman, VP SDAA

• I think Dan and Sandy Kiser and their team did an EXCELLENT job running this event and hopefully they will take the reins again and run us across the dark starry Julian StarFest event again next year! - Dennis Ammann, SDAA Center City Outreach Coordinator


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Once again, the dark Julian skies did not disappoint. Thursday was very clear, with some clouds on Friday. By the Saturday night star party, the clouds had cleared. The milky way was on full display to the unaided eye. Green laser pointers were flashing this way and that as astronomers moved to guide excited onlookers to the key points of interest. Many deep sky objects were clearly visible in the >50 telescopes pointing towards the heavens.

In addition to the huge outreach results, the event netted thousands of dollars that will help fund the San Diego Astronomy Association’s ongoing community educational efforts. A special thanks to the Menghini Winery for donating the venue. Special thanks also to the SDAA Board, JSF Committee, Volunteers, Sponsors, and Exhibitors. We hope to make the 2020 Julian StarFest even better. See you soon.

Here is a picture Scott Dixon took of M8, the Lagoon Nebula, on Thursday Night at JSF. Scott got 3 hours total exposure, with ten-minute RGB subs. Telescope was an 8-inch PTO RC and the camera was a ZWO ASI 1600. Processing was with PixInsight, Photoshop and Images Plus.

Recap of 2019 JSF Schedule:

Thursday, August 1 12:00 Noon – Open for Merchants and Exhibitors set up 3:00 PM - Open to camper and RV check in


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Friday, August 2 10:00 AM – Merchant and Exhibitor booths open 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM – Lions Club Field Kitchen is open 2:00 PM - Speaker Program – Palomar Science Update – Kin Searcy 4:00 PM – Speaker Program – Cruzen Observatory Update – Bill Nguyen 6:00 PM - Speaker Program & Book Signing – Astronomy for Older Eyes – James Chen Saturday, August 3 8:00 AM - Lions Club Field Kitchen open for breakfast 8:00 AM - Carpool leaves for Palomar Tour 9:30 AM -Merchant booths open 9:30 AM - Tour begins at Palomar Observatory 10: AM to 7:00 PM - Lions Club Field Kitchen is Open 10:00 AM - Kids Crafts at Stage area 11:00 AM - Speaker Program – Through the Looking-glass - Dennis Mammana 1:00 PM - Speaker Program – Dark Energy / Dark Matter – Steve Hallmann 2:00 PM - Kids Craft at the stage area 2:00 PM - Speaker Program – Distance Latter Project – Steve Hallman 3:00 PM - Speaker Program & Book Signing – How to Find the Apollo Landing Sites – James Chen 4:00 PM - Raffle Drawing 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM - Set up for public star party Dusk to 11 PM – Largest FREE Public Star Party in Southern California Sunday, August 4 8 AM – Lions Club Field Kitchen Open for Breakfast 10:00 AM - The 2019 Julian StarFest closes


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SDAA Outreach to China!

By David Decker & Dennis Ammann SDAA Outreach Coordinators

Last June, Dave Decker, Chief SDAA Outreach Coordinator received a request from Mrs. LieLei Wahlmann, regarding a UCSD Extension Program to teach a class about astronomy to 20 Chinese high school students from Shanghai, China. After further liaison, Dave set this event for Friday, July 26th at 3:00 p.m. and asked Dennis if he would like to assist. This would be a challenge for us because of the language barrier and the students’ lack of knowledge about astronomy. We both met at a local eatery for lunch, transferred Dennis’ 70mm refractor and 114mm reflector telescopes to Dave’s Jeep and carpooled to UCSD in order to cut the parking cost down. We located the classroom on the campus of UCSD and were greeted by Mrs. Wahlmann who supplied the PowerPoint projector and helped us set up in the classroom. Soon we were ready for the students who filed in on time. Dave started out teaching the students about the solar system, distances between each planet, formation, general information, and data about the Sun. We had to adapt to a slower pace while speaking so that some of the students could translate in Mandarin Chinese for those not as advanced in English. Most of the students were very proficient in English, something our American students are lacking in any type of foreign language. Dennis spoke about the asteroid belt and passed around a few meteorites to hold. He described how far away they traveled, their age, make-up, and speed. Each student received ‘bragging rights’ in that they held a ‘shooting star.’ Dave then spoke about the workings of a refracting and reflecting telescope via a diagram and the actual telescopes in the classroom. We noticed that one student, Sandy, seemed to be the most interested in astronomy asking us many questions, one of which was about a White Hole, something way out of our universe to explain to her. During the break, Dennis brought out the refractor and tried to line up the Sun’s projection on a white piece of cardboard. This year the weather has been very overcast for stargazing, but the sun made a quick appearance and a projection of its image was cast upon a piece of white cardboard. Soon our astronomy session ended with some of the students asking questions as we packed up. As Mrs. Wahlmann came over to thank us and say good-bye, Dave offered to return Sunday night for a modified outside astronomy lab at the upstairs parking lot if she desired. She jumped at this opportunity and we returned at sunset, on Sunday, July 28th. That night, SDAA member Craig Ewing, a friend of the Wahlmann family, joined us with his giant 10”, f/7.2 Dob, Dennis also had a 10” Dob, and Dave brought his 6” SCT. As expected we were greeted with, “July without the sky” as the coastal marine layer replaced the clear blue daytime sky with a thick low ceiling of clouds. This was indeed a sad situation, but we set up anyways just to show the Chinese students how telescopes work… ‘hands on.’ Dennis looked for Sandy, showed her how we collimate mirrors using a laser beam, then taught her how to aim the large telescope at a distant red aircraft warning light on top of a construction crane using a red dot spotter scope. Then he taught her how to focus. We were very impressed with her enthusiasm to learn astronomy and operate a telescope. Dennis quickly got out of her way as she taught her fellow students how to aim and focus! One male student sadly told us that he has never seen the stars in the night sky because the intense light pollution in Shanghai! He was disappointed when he was not able to see stars while visiting San Diego. After about one hour hoping Saturn and Jupiter might appear through a hole in the clouds, we gave up, shifted to posing for a few photos, and said “zài jiàn” to the students. The three amigos from SDAA, left UCSD that night sad that we couldn’t show them a couple of planets, star clusters, or nebulae, but felt we did change lemons into lemonade that night for them. We will not forget our new friends and future scientists from China. What fun astronomy outreach can be, especially with this experience interacting with such intelligent students from China! Perhaps you too can assist us by checking the outreach calendar each month, grab your telescope, and join us all over San Diego County to share the night sky with eager people of all ages, yearning to learn about the heavens through your telescope and your knowledge of astronomy.


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2019 - Changes and Innovations in Astronomy

Sept. 19-22, 2019 Thursday—Sunday

Camp Oakes Big Bear, California

Welcome to our 51st RTMC Astronomy Expo! RTMC has a fresh aspect now as we gather in September, just before the fall Equinox. Until this year, we have always met in May with the spring and early summer sky visible. This year, the RTMC evening sky will have moved 120 degrees to the west, putting the summer Milky Way high overhead with the fall constellations coming up in the East. RTMC is a well-rounded astronomy event that includes excellent science lectures and a great star party with outdoor observing day and night with fellow amateurs and telescopes of all kinds. We also feature astro-vendors bringing you the latest astronomy gear. You won’t be sitting in a conference center merely talking about astronomy—at RTMC we are surrounded by real stars. Naturally, the out-doors includes real weather, so come prepared for cool nights and warm sun. RTMC is the place for telescope makers, so if you built it, bring it and show it off. If you took a picture of the sky, bring it to share. We will recognize your best telescoping making efforts and astro photos in our telescope-maker Merit Awards and Astrophotography Competition. And, for photographers, this year’s AstroPhotography Workshop is designed for the average astroimager who wants to take good photos with portable equipment at star parties. We invite you to contribute to our program, whether by speaking on a subject you have studied or by showing something you have done. Bring your telescope to our nightly star party and join us on the main telescope field if you wish. The RTMC star party is a great opportunity to make new friends. This year the moon comes up later, so our evenings offers deep sky objects along with Jupiter and Saturn. On the upper telescope field, there are a few power outlets available for telescopes and computers, so you may want to bring a power pack or extension cord. We are a family event: all kids come in for free and students enter at half price. We have events for everyone, including hikes, mountain biking, swimming, archery, a zip line, and canoeing. Sunday af-ternoon our kids’ creative astronomy activity capped off with ice cream sundaes. Check your program for details. Come join our Beginners’ Corner talks and star party and activities. We can help you get started and explore many aspects of our hobby while answering your questions. Saturday and Sunday mornings, there is fun at the Swap Meet where many surprises and curiosities await. Come on up to the mountain and see for yourself! Martin Carey RTMC President


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2019 RTMC Astronomy Expo

You are highly encouraged to bring a print of a favorite image you have produced since last year's conference in any or all of five categories:

· Solar System, · Deep Sky, · Eclipses/Transits, · Meteors and Atmospheric Effects, · General (astronomically related).

Pictures must be unframed and from 8x10 to 16 x 20 (if matted, do not exceed 16 x 20 mat). Register from Fri-day, 11 am until Saturday, 10 am in the tent (in front of the main dining hall). Entry and contest rules are at www.rtmcastronomyexpo.org. RTMC AE attendees will enjoy your work and have an opportunity to vote for their favorites. Winners will be named Saturday night.

Astro Imaging Exhibition

If you have an image, movie, or short PowerPoint that you would like to share with the astro-crowd, please bring it to the main hall on Friday night after dinner. At "Show and Tell" you can do a little informal bragging on what you have done without making too big a deal of it. Simply bring the file on a separate CD or thumb drive, clearly labeled with your name and which files you want shown, to the AV volunteers in front. It really helps if you have set the separate images into a short presentation (PowerPoint or oth-er simple viewer), rather than relying on the AV folks to find the separate files. Be ready to say a few words to the audience. Limit yourself to five minutes, please!

RTMC Astronomy Expo is well noted for its pro-grams. We have three venues, going all weekend, so there is plenty to see and hear. We are looking for talks related to this year’s theme: Changes & Innovations in Astronomy, in addition to any other aspect of amateur or professional astronomy. As usual, we invite you to present information about telescope making, equipment, visual observing, im-aging, outreach, or any and all other aspects of our hobby. If you would like to make a presentation, lead a workshop, chair a panel, or reserve time for a special interest group meeting, please send an ab-stract, audio-visual requirements & a brief (50 words) biography by July 2nd to Charles Morris at: [email protected].

In 1969, the tradition started with the "Telescope Mak-ers Conference" at Riverside City College. If you have designed a telescope, bring it so others can see your innovative designs or craftsmanship in telescope mak-ing. Be sure to register for the Merit Awards program. All entries must be completed (not "Under Construc-tion") and must be located on the Telescope Field, Tele-scope Alley, or the Meadow. Judging is on Friday af-ternoon and Saturday morning with Merit Awards named Saturday evening.

Show and Tell

Presenters Needed Telescope Makers, Merit Awards

Nightfall

Beginner’s Corner Come check out the fun things going on for all ages! You can hear talks about The Basic Telescopes, Observing Techniques, Eyepiece Basics, Overview of Astronomy, Messier Objects, Understanding Star Charts, and so much more! And have you ever walked the entire Solar System? Well you can (sort of). Meet at the front of Bose Lodge during the day for a very informative and fun “walk” thru the Solar System. You can also get a guided Tour of the Constella-tions at night in the Amphitheater next to Bose Lodge.

Nightfall is still going strong! Come join the fun at the Palm Canyon Resort in Borrego Springs, CA. Dates: 10/24/19 - 10/27/19 Be sure to make your reservations now as the hotel and campground sells out quickly! Reservations can be made at: http://www.palmcanyonrvresort.com/ Borrego Springs is the second international IDA dark sky community. See www.nightfallstarparty.com for all the details. Sponsored by: The Riverside Astronomical Society.

For those of you who venture up to the telescope field Friday and Saturday night, we’ll have various telescope stations set up for you to look thru at the night sky. We’ll also announce and direction your attention to any possible iridium flares and ISS passes that may happen on those evenings. If you’ve never witnessed an iridi-um flare or watched the International Space Station fly by, make plans to stop by and see us up on the tele-scope field.

Telescope Viewing


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Camp Oakes will have a schedule of various activi-ties offered by the Camp. Everyone may enjoy the swimming pool, lake canoes, archery, mountain bik-ing (your own bike), climbing tower, catch & release fishing, and zip line (fee charged by the camp). The schedule listing times and locations for these activities will be posted at the Main Hall, Bose Hall and the Information Booth. Be sure to check it out when you arrive so you don't miss out on anything. See you there!

Family Fun

2019 RTMC Astronomy Expo

Mobile and Star Party AstroPhotography This year’s RTMC Premium AstroPhotography will be doing something different—concentrating on the needs of the average astroimager using portable equipment while camping or attending star parties. This kind of im-aging has special needs. Equipment, power supplies, storage and transportation, quick setup and polar align-ing, weather planning, target selection and scheduling, session planning and execution, cabling, software and computer equipment all change when the imager is away from home and an observatory. We will bring to-gether a few experienced experts who will work with you on what you need to plan and do for a successful night of imaging. Whether you are just starting out, or have some experience, you will want to see what these folks do to make their camping trips more productive. This four hour workshop will have demonstrations, displays, and discussion about what you will need to make beauti-ful images of the sky far from home. Workshop is for Sunday, Sept 22nd from 9am—2pm. (Separate fee to attend, see registration form.)

AstroPhotography Workshop

Swap Meet

We are at 7200+ fee in elevation, so be sure to drink plenty of water, use sunscreen and be prepared for various weather conditions. It can be cold, windy, snowing, hot, sunny, dry, etc., all in one day! Bring layers to wear, a hat and a sense of adventure. We never know what Mother Nature will give us.

As usual, we’ll be having our swap meet on BOTH Sat-urday and Sunday mornings. So dig deep in those clos-ets, garages, and storage units for all that extra stuff you don’t use. Sell it, make some money and gain some space - for some new stuff!

Important Camp information! The camp has informed us that NO DOGS will be allowed at Camp Oakes. This is liability issue for them. Unless your dog is a licensed guide/therapy dog, please leave your dog at home. Please be aware that there is NO water available to fill up your RV with. Please make sure your water tanks are already filled before arriving. There is also NO electricity hook ups for RVs. No camping is allowed in or near the Indian Village. It is for the Camp Staff only. We appreciate your understanding in following the camp rules.

Don’t Forget . . .

How do we compare? Over the years, our prices have fluctuated very little. In comparison to other large, outdoor astronomy expos/star parties, we are still very affordable. Most other expos have limited reservations, while we have un-limited reservations. We offer camping, dorms and 3-sided shelters, indoor talks and workshops. The ability to come and go from the expo camp at any time during your stay. Some places don’t allow leaving at night. Texas Star Party Winter Star Party Golden State OkieTex PreRegistration $80, $60 for add’l family $150 $60 $60, +$5 per day At the door reg. $150, $70 for add’l family $70, or $25 per night $120,+$5 per day Day only $100 ? ? ? Camping $16-$30, per day $50-$130 Included Included Reservations Limited Limited ? ? Amenities Open Pavilion, Open Pavilion, Shade tent, Enclosed building porta potties flush toilets porta potties for talks


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Location Longitude 116° 45' 21" West Latitude 34° 13' 45" North Altitude 7228 feet (2203 meters) Moonrise (PDT); Moonset in daylight Thurs, Sept 19: rise 10:14PM - set 11:29AM Fri, Sept 20: rise 10:56PM - set 12:28PM Sat, Sept 21: rise 11:45PM - set 1:28PM Sun, Sept 22: rise 12:00AM - set 2:27PM Contact Information Registration: [email protected] Vendor Chairman: [email protected] Merit Awards: [email protected] Speaker Chairman: [email protected] http://www.rtmcastronomyexpo.org/

RTMC Sponsor A proud supporter of the RTMC for over 40


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TO REGISTER 1. Complete the registration form. 2. Make checks payable to: Riverside Telescope Makers Conference. 3. Mail your Registration to: Riverside Telescope Makers Conference P.O. Box 20243 Riverside, CA 92516 OR You may use PayPal to register online at: http://rtmcastronomyexpo.org/registration/

Pre-registration closes August 31st

Do not mail or use PayPal/website registration after August 31, 2019

Your request will not be processed. You may register on-site when you arrive.

Refunds: Notify the conference via email by Sept 9th . PayPal Service Fees are not refundable.

No refunds for weather-related causes.

NAME _______________________________________________ Phone# _____________ Note: Vendors, please use the form at http://rtmcastronomyexpo.org/vendors/ ADDRESS_____________________________________________________________ CITY__________________________________ STATE___________ ZIP___________ EMAIL ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________

Weekend Admission (Includes Up to 3 Nights Camping)

Cost Before Aug 31

Cost After

Aug 31

Times # of

People

Equals Amount

Adults, per person $45 $50

Children Ages 0 to 17 Please note how many

Free Free

Dorms— Adults (does not include admission)

$18 $20

Dorms— ages 0-17 Please note how many

Free Free

RTMC T-shirt Small

Select size and quantity Medium

We reserve the right to refuse any application.

DAY USE ONLY No Camping or Dorms Included in Price

Before Aug 31

After Aug 31

Times # of

People

Equals Amount

Adults, per person $25/Day $30/day

Children Ages 0 to 17

Free Free

Sunday, Sept 22, 9am-2pm Mobile Astro-Imaging Workshop $50 per person (In addition to Camping or Day Use Admission)

Times # of People

________

TOTAL

$18 each, prepaid Large

Will be $21 at the booth X Large

Expo dates are Thurs. Sept 19th to Sun. Sept. 22nd

CAR PASSES: How many vehicles:______ How many people in each vehicle:__________

XX Large

XXX Large

Please remember, NO DOGS allowed. Thank you!


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SDAA ContactsClub Officers and Directors

President Dave Wood [email protected] (858) 735-8808Vice President Steve Hallman [email protected] Recording Secretary Brian McFarland [email protected] (619) 462-4483Treasurer Gene Burch [email protected] (858) 926-9610 Corresponding Secretary Bill Nguyen [email protected] (619) 751-6621Director Alpha Dave Decker [email protected] (619) 972-1003Director Beta Jeff Herman [email protected] (619) 846-4898Director Gamma Pat Boyce [email protected] (619) 227-9614Director Delta Mike Chasin [email protected] (858) 210-1454

CommitteesSite Maintenance Bill Quackenbush [email protected] (858) 395-1007Observatory Director Ed Rumsey [email protected] (858) 722-3846Private Pads Mark Smith [email protected] (858) 484-0540Outreach Dave Decker [email protected] (619) 972-1003N. County Star Parties -Vacant- [email protected] S. County Star Parties -Vacant- [email protected] E. County Star Parties Dave Decker [email protected] (619) 972-1003Central County Star Parties Dennis Ammann [email protected] (619) 247-2457Camp with the Stars -Vacant- [email protected] K.Q. Ranch Coordinator Dennis Ammann [email protected] (619) 247-2457Newsletter Andrea Kuhl [email protected] (858) 547-9887New Member Mentor Dan Kiser [email protected] (858) 922-0592Webmaster Jeff Stevens [email protected] (858) 566-2261AISIG Scott Dixon [email protected] (858) 673-9588 Site Acquisition -Vacant- [email protected] Field Trips -Vacant- [email protected] Grants/Fund Raising -Vacant- [email protected] Julian StarFest -Vacant- [email protected] Merchandising -Vacant- [email protected] Publicity Jeff Flynn [email protected] (619) 806-6505Loaner Scopes Ed Rumsey [email protected] (858) 722-3846 Governing Documents TBDTDS Network Dave Wood [email protected] (858) 735-8808Amateur Telescope Making -Vacant- ALCOR (Astronomical League Correspondent) Mary Todd [email protected] (858) 560-2052

Have a great new piece of gear? Read an astronomy-related book that you think others should know about? How about a photograph of an SDAA Member in action? Or are you simply tired of seeing these Boxes in the Newsletter rather than something, well, interesting?

Join the campaign to rid the Newsletter of little boxes by sharing them with the membership. In return for your efforts, you will get your very own byline or pho-tograph credit in addition to the undying gratitude of the Newsletter Editor. Just send your article or picture to [email protected].

SDAA Editorial StaffEditor - Andrea [email protected]

Assistant Editor: Craig Ewing

mailto://[email protected]




















mailto:[email protected]


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mailto:// [email protected]





22

NASA Night Sky Notes September 2019

This article is distributed by the NASA Night Sky Network NASA’s Night Sky Network program supports astronomy clubs across the USA dedicated to astronomy outreach. Visit nightsky.jpl.nasa.org to find local clubs, events, and more!

Spot the Stars of the Summer Triangle

David Prosper

September skies are a showcase for the Summer Triangle, its three stars gleaming directly overhead after sunset. The equinox ushers in the official change of seasons on September 23. Jupiter and Saturn maintain their vigil over the southern horizon, but set earlier each evening, while the terrestrial planets remain hidden. The bright three points of the Summer Triangle are among the first stars you can see after sunset: Deneb, Vega, and Altair. The Summer Triangle is called an asterism, as it’s not an official constellation, but still a striking group of stars. However, the Triangle is the key to spotting multiple constellations! Its three stars are themselves the brightest in their respective constellations: Deneb, in Cygnus the Swan; Vega, in Lyra the Harp; and Altair, in Aquila the Eagle. That alone would be impressive, but the Summer Triangle also contains two small constellations inside its lines, Vulpecula the Fox and Sagitta the Arrow. There is even another small constellation just outside its borders: diminutive Delphinus the Dolphin. The Summer Triangle is huge! The equinox occurs on September 23, officially ushering in autumn for folks in the Northern Hemisphere and bringing with it longer nights and shorter days, a change many stargazers appreciate. Right before sunrise on the 23rd, look for Deneb - the Summer Triangle’s last visible point - flickering right above the western horizon, almost as if saying goodbye to summer. The Summer Triangle region is home to many important astronomical discoveries. Cygnus X-1, the first confirmed black hole, was initially detected here by x-ray equipment on board a sounding rocket launched in 1964. NASA’s Kepler Mission, which revolutionized our understanding of exoplanets, discovered thousands of planet candidates within its initial field of view in Cygnus. The Dumbbell Nebula (M27), the first planetary nebula discovered, was spotted by Charles Messier in the diminutive constellation Vulpecula way back in 1764! Planet watchers can easily find Jupiter and Saturn shining in the south after sunset, with Jupiter to the right and brighter than Saturn. At the beginning of September, Jupiter sets shortly after midnight, with Saturn following a couple of hours later, around 2:00am. By month’s end the gas giant duo are setting noticeably earlier: Jupiter sets right before 10:30pm, with Saturn following just after midnight. Thankfully for planet watchers, earlier fall sunsets help these giant worlds remain in view for a bit longer. The terrestrial planets, Mars, Venus, and Mercury, remain hidden in the Sun’s glare for the entire month. Discover the latest in space science from the NASA missions studying our universe at nasa.gov


23

NASA Night Sky Notes September 2019

Caption: Once you spot the Summer Triangle, you can explore the cosmic treasures found in this busy region of the Milky Way. Make sure to “Take a Trip Around the Triangle“ before it sets this fall! Find the full handout at bit.ly/TriangleTrip

Caption: This wider view of the area around the Summer Triangle includes another nearby asterism: the Great Square of Pegasus.


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