Special Interest Groups

RASC Victoria Centre is creating some Special Interest Groups (SIGs) to initiate interest and engagement in specific astronomy topics. This is formative and fluid as to how this will be implemented so stay tuned for more information. So far, we have four Special Interest Groups that have leads and descriptions.

SIGs will initially meet once a month for an hour or two in an online session hosted through Zoom. Please contact the respective SIG leaders through the email links given below indicating your level of interest and experience in the subject, and ask any questions you might have.

If you have a suggestion for, or are willing to lead a new SIG, please contact David Lee.

Getting Started in Astronomy– David Lee

Look skyward on a clear, dark Victoria evening. Do you yearn to know more about that massive drift of universe? The night sky is well worth discovering. Armed with a map and a bit of patience, get ready to embark upon a journey across the stars!

Of course, your journey will require a passport and a guide to the cosmos! As a participant in RASC Victoria’s Getting Started in Astronomy group, you will have the opportunity to learn about observation tools and how to choose them, what you need to know to get outdoors, sky guides and charts, terminology, dozens of informational resources, indoor astronomy, how to record your observations and the fascinating field of astrophotography.

We’ll meet by Zoom/outdoors as allowed. We’ll decide together on session topics/meeting times and will avail ourselves of both each other’s and RASC Victoria members’ expertise.

Astrophotography – David Payne

This SIG is intended to help those wishing to get into astrophotography and those who have already started but who want to learn more. It is hoped that experienced astro-imagers will also join to help by sharing their expertise. The topics and focus will be determined by the attendee’s questions and interests.

Electronically Assisted Astronomy – David Lee

Electronically Assisted Astronomy is an alternative means of astronomical observation aided by current technologies. Placing itself somewhere between traditional eyepiece observing and astrophotography it is another tool in exploring the night sky.

Significant changes in the last few years in hardware and software has enabled this practice. This group will explore what is available and how to create a system that will enhance are our ability to “observe”.

Astronomy Related Makers – Jim Cliffe

The Maker movement in Astronomy has its roots in the Amateur Telescope Makers (ATM) movement in the 1960’s. Although the number of people engaging in ATM has been decreasing due to lower equipment prices, there may still be a reason why you may want to get your tools out. This group will focus on member’s current projects and is a forum for getting help in Maker skills you may not have yet.