OGM 14^th March 2009

The March OGM was well attended and clearly stretched the capacity of the STBP theatrette. I thank Jonathan Bradshaw for his entertaining presentation on his adventures in occultation timing and recording. It was obvious that active members were keen to present their images and reports accumulated since the last OGM in December 2008. Thanks to all who displayed images, especially those of comet Lulin. 

April Brisbane Field Night

Unfortunately, the STBP observing night on 4^th April was clouded out. Therefore, the next Brisbane Field Night (formerly referred to as LPO, Lunar and Planetary Observing) is on 16^th May (next month) after the May OGM and is hosted by Tim Napier-Munn at his Bellbowrie Observatory. This is a great opportunity for new and experienced observers to learn about multiple stars from a world expert.  Although this event is 5 weeks away, remember that if the weather is dubious, an announcement about cancellation will be made at the May OGM. You can check each month's planned Brisbane Field Nights (LPOs) on the website at: http://www.aaq.org.au/cms/index.php/activities/meetings.html .

April OGM

The Main Item for the April meeting (18^th) will be Peter Marples (SAS) presenting a talk on his adventures searching for supernovas. His recent (August 2008) discovery of SN2008fa was the reward for all his dedicated effort searching CCD images for supernovae. The meeting starts at 4pm in the theatrette at the SSTBP. Remember to check http://www.aaq.org.au/cms/index.php/activities/meetings.html for meeting details of each month.

April DSO

This month we visit Chris Thomas's Taromeo Camp Ovens near Blackbutt on Saturday, 25^th April. Details will be available on the website soon and a map and instructions will be provided at the March OGM. Roy Axelsen has spoken with Chris about the event and the details are as follows:

"Chris plans to do the cooking of the meal in an area shielded from the observing site. There will be somewhere for people to sit around the camp fire to eat and drink (bring wine if you wish), or alternatively there is an open shed with tables and forms where people can sit and eat.

Prices are confirmed. $10 per person (total) if you are having the roast dinner cooked by Chris. $5 per person site fee (includes use of gas BBQ for cooking, and access to hot water for tea/coffee) if you are not eating the roast."

Please remember to always check the website for details of all meetings at http://www.aaq.org.au/cms/index.php/activities/meetings.html and for BFN and DSO nights, click on the meetings and field nights hyperlinks.

Each year, the astronomical societies of southeast Queensland host a combined societies meeting. This year it is scheduled for either the 28^th May or 26^th June. I hope this date can be finalised before the OGM.

New Members:

Welcome to our most recent new members:-  Alexis Guzman and Christopher Hetherington