WSIG Telescope Lab meets at Picnic & Open House

The Women's Special Interest Group will meet for a hands-on telescope lab Saturday, Oct 22nd at the HAS Picnic & Open House following the picnic dinner.This is a members-only event. Please RSVP to ReneG@astronomyhouston.org.
Target schedule
7:00 - 7:30 p    Telescope overview. Meet at Amelia's Deck. Look for the Pink Telescope—you can’t miss it
7:30 - 8:00 p    Planisphere and Star Atlas How-To
8:00 - 9:00 p    Operating a telescope and finding your way around the sky
9:00 - 10:00 p  Your chance to operate the 12.5" f/5 observatory telescope. In the Observatory

More info

• We will get some hands-on experience operating three types of telescopes: catadioptric, reflector, and refractor on various types of mounts.
• We'll also learn how to map the sky naked-eye using a planisphere and printed star chart using an astronomer's red light.
• To wind up the evening, we'll take a tour of the HAS Observatory and operate the 12.5-inch f/5 telescope under the direction of observatory telescope operator Rene Gedaly.

Is this event for me? 

This initial session targets the female observer who is just starting out or who wants to fill in some gaps in her education. If you don't know the terms above, that's you, and you are warmly invited to join us. Experienced women observers of the WSIG are encouraged to attend to lend a hand. This is going to be fun!

Be sure to bring insect repellant, a chair, and if you have 'em, binoculars and a red light. We’ll have some to share. And don’t let weather patterns in Houston keep you home. There’s a lot to learn and do, even in iffy weather, so please contact me or Amelia for last minute advice.

Rene Gedaly     Amelia Goldberg
WSIG Chair        WSIG Co-chair

If you male members are feeling left out, keep watching. A special program by our Telescope Chairman is under development.