| Info | Well, you've got to start somewhere, and Peter Struve, the club founder decided to splash his idea about starting a club for Swindon Astronomers all over the local newspaper (well nearly!).
On Thursday, 8th January 2009, at the start of the International Year of Astronomy, readers of the Swindon Advertiser were not only treated to a picture of this fine young man, but were informed that Peter comes from a long line of distinguish-ed astrophysicists, and he wants to start a new astronomy club.
"As long as man has walked the planet he has looked towards the stars," said Peter. "We have a need to see starry skies. It is beautiful and part of nature. It is also almost a spiritual experience.
"At the end of the day we are all made of star dust."
The aim of the new group - which already has a good nucleus of members - is to host star gazing parties around Swindon in places such as Barbury Castle and Lydiard Park away from light pollution. Lecturers will also talk to the group.
Peter said: "Most amateurs start with a cheap pair of binoculars but you can start looking with your naked eyes. It is about learning how to use your eyes."
"Nowadays amateurs use the same imaging equipment scientists had in the 1960s."
"We have so many people interested that the town is big enough to have its own astronomy club," he added. "My first view of Saturn's rings was the ultimate,, `wow' factor. It was absolutely stunning."
The first meeting of the club was held at the Lawn Community Centre on the 20 February 2009, and not really to anyone's suprise the meeting room was filled with amatuer astronomers from all over Swindon, along with special guests from First Light Optics in Exeter, who along with Peter, had brought some telescopes to show-off to the packed room. |
