May 14, 2012, 7:30PM: Basic Observational Astronomy Course Part II
Part One of the class will be held starting on May 7, 2012 from 7:30 to 9:30 PM. Part Two will be held on May 14th from 7:30 to 9:30 PM. The classes will be held at the HEB community room located at Bunker Hill and Interstate 10 (Katy Freeway). The HEB is at the northwest corner of that main intersection, just turn north and turn left at the first light, which is actually controls cross traffic from the parking lots on either side of Bunker Hill. The community room is outside on the main sidewalk between the two store entrances, so you don’t even need to go inside the store. The bathrooms are inside however.
We will touch on a very short section on the history of astronomy, but the bulk of the class will concentrate on equipment, including types of telescopes, mounts, eyepieces, barlows, filters, flashlights, and viewing techniques. The second night will be all about observing techniques, constellations, astronomical programs, star-hopping, sky conditions, recording your observations, and lunar and planetary viewing. Sign up on the list-server for more information.
The only requirement for attendance is being a paid member of HAS, so I encourage you to pay your dues early or at our first meeting in January. Preference will be given to new members, but all members are welcome. The class size for this first class will be limited to 30 participants.