The Villages - May 2018 - 49

Club member and former president Burt Salk explains
that astronomy has grown to encompass more than
just simply observing the heavens. Now, astronomers
determine the composition of astronomical features,
measure the distances between stars and other objects
in space and, now that we have the technology, decide
where humans should visit next via probe or rover.
Twice a year, The Villages Astronomy Club hosts an
event called Starry, Starry Night. During this event, club
members set up their telescopes after sunset at a local
recreation center for people to view and enjoy.
The most recent Starry, Starry Night event was held
Feb. 23. People of all ages turned out as club members
focused their telescopes on the moon (viewable through
a filter, otherwise it is too bright), the star Sirius and the
Orion Nebula, among other heavenly bodies.
Event attendees often show up with a thirst for
knowledge, and club members are happy to share what
they know with anyone who asks.

"We get a lot of good questions at our meetings,
especially if they recognize the speaker has some
knowledge on the topic," said Bruce Sinclair, current
Astronomy Club president. "They'll ask some pretty
penetrating questions."
The club will hold another Starry, Starry Night event
later this year, and more information will be posted on
the club's website.
Whether they are at a club meeting, hosting an
event or simply chatting with people around The
Villages, Astronomy Club members enjoy sharing their
astronomical knowledge with others. Space is the socalled "final frontier," and there is still much we don't
know about the universe.
Club members love seeing the reactions from children
when they first see the moon or a star up close. It is up
to future generations to continue exploring the universe,
and club members especially enjoy bringing their
telescopes and the Solar Walk to schools and children's
events.
"I'm primarily interested in passing along what
we know to children," Salk said. "There are a lot
of interested people, most of whom are hungry for
information."

The Villages asTronomy Club
The Villages Astronomy Club meets at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month,
except July and August, at Laurel Manor Recreation Center. For more information, contact
club President Bruce Sinclair at rbs99@comcast.net or visit the club website at www.vlgastroclub.org.

MAGAZINE

http://www.vlgastroclub.org

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of The Villages - May 2018