July and August - no scheduled meetings; possible WhatsApp observation sessions on Win Green including:
Out-of-programme scheduled event: the Perseid Meteor shower
"Astrophotogaphy"
"Lunar Sketching"
Come join us for a gathering and chat about the past year, what to expect in the next year. Plus some stuff from the AGM!
If the weather is doubtful we'll let you know if the observation session is on at least 12 hours before via our WhatsApp group 'Cranborne Chase Astro'.
If this happens we'll hold a talk /discussion/Q&A session at the Grosvenor Arms instead on the theme “Topics in astronomy”. These sessions will take a fairly informal look at different aspects of astronomy - it may be particular features of the night sky (comets, asteroids, the planets, the moon, deep sky or observation tips and techniques with telescopes/binoculars), etc.
The postponed observation session will then take place at Win Green (turn off A30 in Ludwell and follow for a mile or so to SP7 0ES on the left) on the first clear night after the postponed observation evening.
You will be notified of these sessions via 'Cranborne Chase Astro' WhatsApp at least 12 hours before. Look out for the blue logo on the App announcing the session.
Other observing opportunities are:
Similar to the above but outside our formal programme, our WhatsApp 'Cranborne Chase Astro' can also show if people are going up to Win Green for an informal (“spontaneous”) observing session. Again, watch out for the blue logo.
Please note, you do not have to have a telescope to join the groups on Win Green. There are always enough scopes there provided by other members. A pair of binoculars is always useful, but again not a requirement. The important aim is to enjoy viewing the night sky with other enthusiasts!
We have started to experiment with different lcoations for our impromptu observation sessions, a new one being Duncliffe Woods. Details will be posted in the WhatsApp group.
Lecture evenings will be held at The Grosvenor Arms on the High Street, Shaftesbury, SP7 8JA
All talks are free to members. Refreshments will be available to buy at the bar before and during the interval.
Observation evenings will be held at The Rising Sun, Salisbury Rd, Shaftesbury SP7 9LT. Drinks can be bought at the bar.
As you will have seen in your regular email updates and discussions at meetings, we have been partnering with other local astronomy groups to share knowldge and resources.
We are now invited to attend their meetings in person or over Zoom, and they can come to ours.
Widefield Photography
"The Life and Times of Galileo"
Finally, observing opportunities are available through the National Landscapes (AONB), who have given the following dates and locations for observing events so far in 2024: More details on their website
Coming by Car via the A30 or B3081, follow the signs for the 'Town Centre'. At the top of the high street is the hotel, opposite NatWest bank.
We will be in the Assembly Room on the first floor - there is disabled/wheelchair access available via a lift to the left as you enter the hotel.
There is no dedicated parking here but there is parking across the road in Bell Street car park, which is free after 6pm.
There are more detailed instructions on the Grosvenor Arms website. There is also a map showing the closest car parks.