July 2022

I am writing this message on the solstice, the first day of summer, the longest day of the year and when the sun is the farthest north. We selected Saturday, June 18 for our public Solar Observing Day due to its proximity to the solstice. But, as we have become accustomed, the weather did not fully cooperate. 

The mostly cloudy afternoon meant catching views of the sun between the clouds. Although we had fewer than a dozen visitors stop in to look through the six solar telescopes, watch Jeff Padell’s talk on the sun, and tour the observatory, they all were quite appreciative. Thank you to all those who brought a telescope and helped to educate the public.

Following solar observing was time for members; a telescope workshop and an informal bring-your-own dinner. We had two members bring their telescopes for assistance. Both had go-to scopes that they were unable to use. Several of our knowledgeable and experienced members dove right in to diagnose the problems and make recommendations. I watched various controllers and mounts come and go from storage as more people engaged in solving the problems. 

I counted 23 members in attendance. In spite of the weather, I had a wonderful time visiting with fellow members and interacting with our visitors. We should do this more often!

Oh, one more thing. To end the day on a high note, we had an expected visitor from western Connecticut who was willing to adopt our 20” Dobsonian telescope and give it a good home. He left happy and pledged to visit us in the future. The Trustees were happy to free up space in the anteroom. And, we were all happy to add $700 to our treasury!

We didn’t get to observe the night sky, but, overall it was a good day!