Members’ Night: Constellations
by Tom Thibault
The first of our Members Night, Constellations seasonal series, was held the evening of April 29th. He group consisted of several members of varying years of experience and levels of astronomical knowledge.
The session was hosted by Dave Huestis and Francine Jackson. The session began with Dave providing an overview of the night’s objectives. Dave then proceeded to explain the basics in regards to the earth’s rotation, the elliptical plane, Polaris, and its relation to the North Celestial Pole. He explained that Polaris could be found utilizing the Big Dipper, thus revealing the direction north and that one’s general latitude could be determined based on the height of Polaris above the horizon.
Dave also instructed the less experienced members on how to use a northern hemisphere planisphere (constructed for use at 40-42 degrees north latitude) to identify constellations visible from our home here in southern New England.
The session continued utilizing Starry Night Pro Software with which our circumpolar constellations were identified. Francine Jackson then provided some mythological information regarding these constellations while viewing the rendition of artwork Starry Night utilizes. Dave moved on to the more prominent spring constellations followed by Francine’s mythological associations.
The session ended with the group exiting the meeting hall to be greeted by clear skies allowing for some eyes-on viewing. This provided an excellent opportunity to tryout our newly learned skills. It was a wonderful evening and fun was had by all, I’m looking forward to our Summer Constellation Program tentatively scheduled for Friday, June 24 at 8:00 pm.
