BASINGSTOKE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY Minutes of meeting held on 26th January 2006 at Cliddesden Primary School Apologies Malcolm Trussler, Bernie Sullivan, Mountstephens, Nick Hudson, Julie Chignell and Gordon McKay The chairman welcomed everyone present. Starwatch Dave Shave-Wall presented Starwatch, telling us what we can expect to see in the night sky in February. Changes At a recent committee meeting held on 11th January, it was decided to make some changes both to the programme and the meetings. An agenda will be written for every meeting up to June and will be sent out to members and placed on the society web page at least 3 days in advance to the meeting. There will now be two meetings each month, the ordinary meeting on the 4th Thursday as usual and the beginner’s meeting on the 2nd Friday of each month. All members are welcome to attend both meetings. The beginner’s meetings well commence in the hall, and if the weather allows will be dedicated to observing. If the weather does not allow for this, short talks as well as short video films suitable for beginners will be given. Speakers Meetings where speakers have been booked will go ahead as planned. Thinking ahead, John Stapleton has had a firm booking from Guy Hurst for September’s meeting and has had confirmation from Adrian Berry (that he will give a talk in January 2007. (Readers of the Daily Telegraph and Astronomy Now magazine will recognise the name.) It was also suggested that we should encourage reciprocal visits and speakers, and should contact other societies within the area. Messier Marathon This has been planned for Saturday 25th March, with a reserve date of the following Saturday 1st April, should we be unable to observe on the initial date. If 1st April is unsuitable for observing then a series of short talks will be given. The aim of the Marathon is to spot all 110 objects listed by Charles Messier in a dusk till dawn observing session. Building Works Building works are currently in progress at Cliddesden School. Talks held with the Governors and Head Teacher regarding the lighting resulted in a suggestion from them that we use some sort of hood over the light that can be removed when members leave the premises. Astrofest An excursion to the Annual Astrofest held at Kensington Town Hall on 4th February is being planned. It is hoped that 2 cars can be used to transport members expressing a wish to attend. The exhibition includes trade stalls and lectures. Main Event John Stapleton took members through the gas planets, in Solar System part 2. A video of the ‘History of Astronomy’ and ‘The life of Stars’ were shown after coffee and a lively discussion with Q and A session followed. Next Meetings Friday 10th February Beginner’s meeting 23rd February Ordinary meeting Close 10 pm