Special Interest Groups (Sigs)

Awards

1. Your name as you wish it to appear on the certificate
2. The date of the last item observed
3. A copy or the original log of your observations.
The log will not be kept by the club and will be returned to you.

To encourage you to observe and reward you for observing! PERIOD!

1. Observe the required objects for the certificate, Messier (70/110/Master), Herschel 200, NGC 100, Arp 100, Palomar Globular, Grand Tour Solar System, Explore the Universe (RASC), Fort McKavett Challenge, and any other special certificates.

2. Log the required observation of the required objects. "Log" is defined as follows: you have successfully 'logged' the item if the awards chairman (Triple Nickel) feels you did in fact look for and observe the object. Reference the objective of the program. The minimum log would have a list of the objects followed by the date you observed the object. If you want further kudos (and enjoyment) from your efforts, add drawings, scope and eyepiece used, seeing condition notes, and additional comments. These extra items will be acknowledged but are not required. To obtain the Master Certificates, you MUST include drawings, dates and times of the observation. So if you have completed the requirements for a certificate, get out your old logbooks and get the certificate. That is, certificates are retroactive, and all members (past, present, and future) will be awarded for their accomplishments!

To view a list of Certificate Recipients, click here.

The wonders of deep space are open to those with a telescope, binoculars or just plain eyes. Take a tour of the heavens with our monthly Observing program. Visit wispy nebulas, eye-catching clusters, distant galaxies, and solar system objects. Each month objects are selected for your viewing pleasure. These objects will be featured in the Starscan and presented at our monthly meetings. Interesting facts will be given about selected object.
This program/SIG features monthly targets within several catagories; Bright Skies Objects (BSO), Dark Skies Objects (DSO), Solar System Objects (SSO), and Chris' Don't Miss Pick (CDMP). These objects compliment viewers from the novice to the advanced. BSO's are generally viewable from the city, some might be a challange, but are visible. DSO's are generally to dim to be visible in the city. SSO's are just the "locals". Objects which feature the Sun, moons, planets, comets, asteroids, and anything that might be of local nature. The CDMP's are just the object that if you could only view one objects this month, this would br the one.
This SIG should stimulate your observing, and provide objects that can help get you a JSCAS observing certificate! The monthly observing list and awards programs can be found by clicking the Observing Button.
If you need help getting started or need more information on observing in general I would be glad to help you.


Observing Sig Coordinator

The Astronomy Fundaments SIG is designed to aid new and veteran observers in the basics of astronomy. There will be briefings covering any astronomy aspect desired, from how to find an object to the latest equipment. The intent of this SIG is to educate all members on those subjects that pose a question to you, the member. So, if there are any subjects you are wishing more information on, let the SIG leader know by email. Past subjects covered were: "How to find an Object;" "Astronomical Measurements;" "Latest Equipment in Finding objects;" "Identifying Constellations and Star Hopping from a Known to an Unknown." Future planned subjects are "Reading the sky in right ascension and declination;" "How to plan and prepare for a star party away from home;" "Collimating your scope;" "New books and old ones to help you observe." The next briefing just might be on the subject you wish to know about, so email your suggestions/questions to Triple Nickel at

The Amateur Telescope Making SIG was established some years back when Al Kelly coordinated the efforts of about twenty club members in a mass telescope building program. Al designed a telescope that anyone, with just a bit of tool knowledge, could assemble. A second round of construction was started about a year latter and another twenty scopes were born. Several members of our club have produced their own mirrors and are well versed enough to teach others the process. Mirrors from 4.25" to 22" have been made by hand and machine by the more insane of the bunch. Mirror making questions made be forwarded to Bob Taylor.