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The Astronomical Association of Queensland (AAQ) is Queensland’s original astronomical body with a history extending back to 1896. The AAQ promotes observational and scientific astronomy as well as fostering a general interest in astronomy for both beginners and for the more advanced.
The AAQ serves its members and furthers the science of astronomy by:
- holding regular meetings in the Parnell Building, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane
- organising field nights and excursions including (jointly) Queensland Astrofest
- publishing a monthly newsletter containing the association’s proceedings as well as current astronomical information and observational material
- maintaining research funds for the advancement of astronomy
- recognizing outstanding achievements by the award of prizes
- maintaining an extensive library of new and historic literature
- providing a members forum for the exchange of ideas and information
- supporting education through bursaries and outreach activities and
- representing Queensland astronomy within the state, nationally and internationally.
Membership is open to all persons interested in astronomy.
Get your 2010 AAQ Events Calender here.
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About the AAQ -
From the President
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Written by AAQ President
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John Salini
Astrofest 2010
As this newsletter is prepared, the Queensland Astrofest camp is reaching a climax over the weekend of 14/15 August. Unfortunately, for the second successive year, I am unable to attend. Out of embarrassment from winning a NexStar 5SE GoTo telescope last year, from raffle tickets bought on my behalf by Terry Cuttle, I have not participated this year. I trust the participants this year enjoyed some great skies, although a few nights were lost due to the unseasonal rain this week. There will be reports on Astrofest activities at the August OGM.
OGM & BFN, 21st August 2010
The August Ordinary General Meeting (OGM) will be held in Room 222 in the Parnell Building, St Lucia campus, UQ. In my absence, Jonathan Bradshaw (Vice-President) will chair the meeting. The Main Item will be a talk by Tony Dutton on DSLR Photometry. Tony will describe the methods and process involved in using a domestic DSLR to produce useful photometry data. Last month, Terry Cuttle postponed his 11th July Total Solar Eclipse report until the August OGM, so there will be a lot of interest in his report. In addition, some members will report on astrofest activities as noted above.
The Brisbane Field Night (BFN) observing session will be held after the meeting, weather permitting; a variety of telescopes will be available for viewing. If the sky is clear and there is a good chance of observing, Jonathan will ensure the OGM is completed in time to allow for an orderly setup of equipment at the observing site. Do not hesitate to bring a portable telescope or binoculars if you have them; the plan is to set up telescopes in Munro St Park, bordered by Coleridge St and Carmody Rd adjacent to the St Lucia campus. During the meeting, Tony Dutton will provide a summary of observing targets; experienced and inexperienced members & guests will be catered for. The July BFN again proved very popular; at about 9pm, a group enjoyed a late dinner at La Porchetta in St Lucia Village.
Members who want the AAQ logo stitched on their favourite clothing, please remember to bring their shirts, vests, etc, to the OGM and arrangements will be made for application of the new AAQ logo.
After the OGM (and before the BFN observing session), there is free tea, coffee and biscuits in the tea room behind Lecture Room 222; the library will be available at the same time.
Parking is free on Saturday afternoon/evening, but please avoid using specific sites that require a permit; see the campus map on the website for suggested parking sites.
Membership
Thank you to our newest members who have recently applied for membership of the AAQ, especially our North Queensland friends. Our membership is currently at 113. This month we welcome Mr Rick Stevenson as an associate member. Two Members were granted Full Membership to the AAQ. Congratulations to Allison Beck and Rob Black.
The AAQ Council is currently processing membership applications that will lead to the formation of a North Queensland Section of the AAQ, with Rob Black as the section director. We hope to complete the formal arrangements by the September Council Meeting. I would like to acknowledge the efforts of both Rob and Jonathan Bradshaw who have worked tirelessly to facilitate establishment of the NQ Section. Our other geographic section is the Toowoomba Section (Des Janke is the director). Geoff Biggs will provide more details at the OGM, and will introduce any new members.
New members are particularly welcome at the BFNs after the meetings as it is a good opportunity to learn about the features on the moon and to be able to look through a variety of telescopes.
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