Title: All About Asteroids

In 1801, Ceres became the first asteroid ‘discovered.’ (it was since reclassified as a dwarf planet.) Since then, astronomers have used widely differing approaches to learn about the nature of asteroids. Nearly all of them are point sources that show no details through the largest telescopes. And so, several clever methods to determine their properties have evolved. These include photometry, radar imaging, and stellar occultations. Tom Polakis’ presentation will range from the history of asteroid discoveries to the latest science about them and what future projects are planned. He will show samples of his techniques to study and photograph asteroids

Presenter: Tom Polakis

Tom Polakis has been an active amateur astronomer for 48 years, during which has seen Saturn circle the sun 1 1/2 times.  He is a member of Saguaro Astronomy Club and East Valley Astronomy Club in Metro Phoenix. A graduate of Michigan State University, and a retired mechanical engineer, Tom’s main interests involve visual observing of all astronomical phenomena, and imaging them with equipment ranging from a phone to a backyard observatory.  He has a special interest in describing the universe as an ever-changing entity.  His writing and photography have regularly appeared in magazines such as Astronomy and Sky & Telescope. More recently, he has been an author or co-author for refereed astronomical publications. 

FREE FAMILY-FRIENDLY PUBLIC EVENT. Come see the TAAA Chiricahua Astronomy Complex (CAC) and observe through some huge telescopes taking in the wonders of the Universe. The site will open at 7 pm with observing from 7:30-9:30 pm. Reservations Required. Email euts[at]tucsonastronomy.org with number people, number vehicles, and email contact information. Additional Information: Evening Under the Stars

Title: TAAA Dark Sky Sites…A Great Club Perk!

TAAA Members Jim Knoll, Bill Lofquist, and Stephen Ferris will speak about the exciting opportunities for dark site viewing available for TAAA members at TIMPA (which stands for Tucson International Modelplex Park Association) and at CAC (Chicahua Astronomy Complex) 

TIMPA is just 25 miles west from the center of Tucson. TAAA has used the site for almost 30 years.  It includes restrooms, 6 user pads, and the club’s original big telescope, the 14″ Gila Monster observatory.  TIMPA Director, Stephen Ferris reports that “in the last two years, we’ve also added a second permanently mounted big telescope, the TIMPA Meade 16″ SCT.  Late last year, we also acquired a Losmandy G11 mount which we are matching with two high quality refractors and an ASIAir control unit.” TIMPA now can welcome SmartScopes of all types.  SmartScopes are a great new tool for both beginning and experienced astronomers. TIMPA is planning multiple events for SmartScopes in the next few months. This close-in site opens at sunset, and members can stay until dawn.  

Presenters: Jim Knoll and Bill Lofquist

Jim Knoll and Bill Lofquist will give the latest information about TAAA’s very own 16-acre CAC observing site. CAC is two hours SE of Tucson near the Chiricahua Mountains. From here you can easily see the Milky Way and many astronomy objects with just your eyes. Telescopes at the site include a 40-inch, 32-inch, 25-inch, 18-inch, several 14-inch scopes, a 9-inch refractor and many more. CAC has 10 sleeping rooms, 7 RV sites, a large tent camping area, and a classroom.  

Learn about the history and current availability of both observing sites at the April TAAA meeting. 

Title: Gravitational Wave Astronomy

Presenter: Pete Hermes

Pete Hermes will be discussing Gravitational Wave Astronomy for our main topic.

Title:  astronomer of the month

Presenter:  Connor Justice

Connor Justice will be highlighting Johannes Hevelius for our astronomer of the month..

Title:  Highlighting the constellation Aquila and discussing the Event Horizon Telescope.

Presenter:  Connor Justice

This month, Connor Justice will be presenting highlighting the constellation Aquila and discussing the Event Horizon Telescope.