The Observer of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers

THE OBSERVER OF THE TWIN CITY AMATEUR ASTRONOMERS

Volume 41, Number 11 November 2016

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

1Editor’s Choice: Image of the Month – M33 2President’s Log 2Nominations Time Once Again 3Calendar of Celestial Events – November 2016 3New & Renewing Members/Dues Blues 3Subscribing to Our E-Mail Lists 4Planets and Bright Stars in Evening Mid-Twilight 5This Month’s Phases of the Moon 5 Solar Eclipse Guide Available 6October Education/Public Outreach Reports 6Prize Drawing Winner Announced 7Image of the Month: M33 (continued) 8Nominations Time Once Again (continued) 8Minutes of the 10/25 Special Board Meeting 9TCAA Benefits from Print4Good Campaign 10New Membership Brochure Printed 11Public Observing Sessions for 2017 11For the Record 12AstroBits – News from Around the TCAA 14Last Intro to Amateur Astronomy Mtg 11/5 15Observing Session at Castle Observatory 16TCAA Photo Gallery 17Nominations for Board and Awards Sought 18Renewing Your TCAA Membership 18TCAA on Facebook and Twitter 18HowTimeFlies 19Treasurer’s Report for October 2016 19Preparing for Camp Ondessonk Eclipse Program

EDITOR’S CHOICE: IMAGE OF THE MONTH – M33

The November Image of the Month is by Tim Stone. Tim labelled The TCAA is an affiliate of the Astronomical League. this image M33 – A Starburst Galaxy. See Tim’s article about M33 For more information about the TCAA, be certain to starting on page 6. visit our club website.

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

PRESIDENT’S LOG The OBSERVER is the monthly electronic newsletter As we head into the holiday season, I’d of Twin City Amateur Astronomers, like to wish everyone a happy time with Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) not-for- friends and family. The cloudy and foggy profit educational organization of days of November are upon us, and along amateur astronomers interested in with the business of the season, we may studying astronomy and sharing not get many good nights to observe or their hobby with the public. engage in photography. Don’t worry, the

TCAA OFFICERS clear nights of January will come soon enough! President & Director/Property Manager We recently participated in what may Tim Stone 309-531-2401 [email protected] be the most successful Autumn Festival ever at the Sugar Grove Nature Center. Vice President & Director Robert Finnigan 309-846-9533 Angela Funk, SGNC Director, estimated [email protected] attendance in excess of 3,000 for that one-day event. We had several telescopes set up in the yard observing the sun and the moon while it was still visible. The solar scope in Treasurer & Director Dave Osenga 309-287-0789 the Sugar Grove Observatory had a camera attached to show an image of the sun on a [email protected] monitor on the first floor, and the Prairie Sky Observatory was open for tours. The

Secretary & Director/Historian/Editor weather was spectacularly beautiful, and a great time was had by all attendees. Thanks Carl J. Wenning 309-830-4085 to all the TCAA members who came out to help. [email protected] The 2016 giveaway telescope was awarded to a very grateful lady, who can’t wait

5th Director to have her own telescope. Perhaps we will see her at a 2017 Public Observing Session! Tom Weiland 309-830-0167 We are still looking for nominations for the 2017 board of directors. Please [email protected] consider becoming involved at that level.

ALCor/Registered Agent We’re in the off season of the club, as well. Public Observing Sessions are finished Duane Yockey 309-452-3936 until March. Activity at the observatories is winding down. Annual equipment [email protected] maintenance activities are underway. This is a good time to pause and reflect on what Webmaster we’ve learned and accomplished this year. Lee Green 309-454-7349 Next month I will provide my own recap of the year. This month is one to sit back [email protected] and reflect, plan for the next year, and catch a breather before the busy holiday season Lighting Education Coordinator is upon us. Lisa Wentzel unlisted number Et illuminans noctem. [email protected] Tim Stone, President Membership Coordinator Tom Willmitch 309-846-2423 [email protected] NOMINATIONS TIME ONCE AGAIN The OBSERVER Carl J. Wenning, Editor Paul Pouliot, Assistant Editor It is time once again to seek nominations for positions on the TCAA Board of Directors. Please contact Vice President Bob Finnigan who is chairing the nominations Submission deadline is normally one day committee, assisted by Lisa Wentzel. Recall that the Board of Directors is elected at before the end of each month. February’s Annual Meeting. The Board assumes office at the end of the meeting, and MEMBERSHIP DUES then on its own schedule selects the officers and chairpersons of the club – president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, historian, newsletter editor, ALCor, property Individual Adult/Family $40 Full-time Student/Senior $25 manager, membership chair, tech assistant, and so forth. (Senior status equals ages 60+) In addition to electing the Board of Directors, the membership also confers various

To join, send your name, contact info and awards. We are currently seeking nominations for the following club awards: John & dues payment to Dave Osenga, TCAA Bertha Kieviet Founders Award, Eugene and Donna Miller Family Award, and Lifelong Treasurer, 1109 N. Linden St., Normal, IL Honorary Membership. This year, for the first time since 2011, the TCAA will confer 61761-1471. upon a worthy candidate the G. Weldon Schuette Award for Outstanding Amateur…

(continued on page 8)

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

CALENDAR OF CELESTIAL EVENTS – NOVEMBER 2016 NEW & RENEWING MEMBERS

MORNING PLANETS (11/15): Jupiter The following individuals have paid dues for new or EVENING PLANETS (11/15): Mercury, Venus, Mars, Saturn, renewed memberships as of October 29th, 2016. (Others Uranus, and Neptune who paid after that date will appear in the December 2016 issue of The OBSERVER.) 06 DST Ends – Daylight Saving Time ends at 2:00 AM Sunday morning, so turn your clocks backward one hour before retiring on Saturday night. Sunset on Saturday is at Mark & Bryce Heiniger, Lisa Wentzel (2 years), 5:47 PM; sunset on Sunday is at 4:46 PM. Jeff A. Struve, & Orlyn Edge

07 First Quarter Moon – The waxing, half-lit moon rises around midday and sets around midnight. DUES BLUES 14 Full Moon – The moon rises at sunset and sets at sunrise. It is visible all night long. This full moon was known to early If you have received a “your dues are due” statement Native American tribes as the Full Beaver Moon because along with the email that brought you this issue of The this was the time of year to set the beaver traps before the OBSERVER, please remit your dues to Mr. Dave Osenga, swamps and rivers froze. It has also been known as the TCAA Treasurer, 1109 N. Linden St., Normal, IL 61761- Frosty and the Hunter’s moon. This is also the second of 1471. Dues are currently $25 for seniors (60 years of age three supermoons for 2016. The Moon will be at its closest and over) and $40 regular. approach to the Earth and will look slightly larger and brighter than usual. SUBSCRIBING TO OUR E-MAIL LISTS

16 Leonid Meteor Shower – This is an average shower, By subscribing to a group’s mailing list you will receive producing up to 15 meteors per hour at its peak. The email messages from the group so you won’t have access shower is produced by dust grains left behind by comet to the group’s web features (like photos, files, links, polls, Tempel-Tuttle, which was discovered in 1865. The shower calendar, etc.) unless members activate it later. The club runs annually from November 6-30. It peaks this year on now has two open email listservs. The first email listserv is the night of the 16th and morning of the 17th. The waning known as the TCAA Yahoogroups listserv. It will be used to gibbous moon will block many of the fainter meteors this share announcements and reminders about astronomical year, but if you are patient you should be able to catch and club events. To join this main listserv you must do the quite a few good ones. Best viewing will be from a dark following: location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the 1. Subscribe: Send a blank email to TCAA- constellation Leo, but can appear anywhere in the sky. [email protected] Note: You’ll be sent a 21 Last Quarter Moon – The waning, half-lit moon rises confirmation email from the group. Reply to the around midnight and sets around midday. confirmation email to activate your subscription. 2. Unsubscribe: [email protected] 24 Conjunction – The Moon and Jupiter will make a pretty 3. To post a message: [email protected]

pair in the predawn, southeastern sky. A second listserv – TCAA–imaging – is for club astronomical photographers as well as those who want to 29 New Moon – Sets at sunset and rises at sunrise; not visible. view their images and follow their discussions. It is an easy way to keep up with all the stuff we’re doing at the EVENING SKY MAP observatories. Click on either of the icons found here 1. Subscribe: [email protected] to access a current evening sky map 2. Unsubscribe: [email protected] along with a more detailed celestial 3. To post a message: [email protected] events calendar. Once members join a Yahoo! group they can manage group and subscription settings whenever it is desired to customize the group experience.

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

PLANETS AND BRIGHT STARS IN EVENING MID-TWILIGHT FOR NOVEMBER 2016

This sky chart by RobertPlanets D. Miller and is drawn Bright for 40 Stars north latitudein Evening but may beMid-T used throughoutwiligh thet continental U.S. and southern Canada. It shows the positions of objectsFor inN theove skymbe whenr, the 20 Sun16 is 9 degrees below the western horizon. This corresponds this month to 45 to 47 Thminutesis sky afterchar tsunset. is draw Noticen for l athattitu dVenuse 40 dcontinuesegrees no movingrth, away from the sun and Saturn is heading into its glare. Mars is roughlybut may equidistant be used in from continent the sunal Uthis.S. month and so inuthern terms C ofanada. angular distance due to its prograde motion roughly matching that of the sun. Mercury makes a cameo appearance near the end of the month in the southwest.

Capella

Aldebaran

Arcturus

Deneb

E Vega W

Altair

Saturn 22 15 Mars 1 8 29 Mercury 22 Venus 1 29 15 8 8 29 2215 1 Antares Fomalhaut

S Evening mid-twilight occurs Stereographic Projection when Sun is 9° below horizon. Map by Robert D. Miller Nov. 1: 45 minutes after sunset. 15: 45 " " " 30: 47 " " "

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

THIS MONTH’S PHASES OF THE MOON

First Quarter Full Moon Last Quarter New Moon Monday, November 7 Monday, November 14 Monday, November 21 Tuesday, November 29

All moon phase dates are given for Central Standard Time. Additional moon phases can be found for the 2016 calendar year by clicking here. Images provided by J. K. Howell of the Champaign-Urbana Astronomical Society & used with permission.

SOLAR ECLIPSE GUIDE AVAILABLE

The Challenger Learning Center (CLC) at Heartland Community College in Normal, IL, has published a total solar eclipse observer’s guide written specifically for viewers within Illinois. This lavishly illustrated 24-page booklet is tailored to provide detailed information specific to Illinois observers, and includes scientific background, local circumstances of the eclipse, a host of preparatory and eclipse day activities, and more. Dr. Carl J. Wenning, member of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers and former director of the Illinois State University Planetarium, authored the publication. The booklet is intended not only to inform your members and your community about the August 21, 2017, total solar eclipse, but to provide observers with the information and basic tools in order to observe the eclipse safely. Each copy of the observer’s guide includes a set of certified- safe solar viewing glasses manufactured on behalf of the Astronomical League, the nation’s largest association of amateur astronomers. Distribution of this booklet is intended as a fundraiser for both the CLC and other educational non-profits willing to distribute this guide. The author suggests that the publication either be sold for a minimum of $10 or given in recognition of those who donate $10 or more to a club, museum, or science center. The document is digitally printed on durable 80# velvet stock paper and is saddle stitched at two points near the center and trimmed on three sides. It has a color cover but is black & white within. This is an updated version of the early draft distributed at NCRAL 2016. BULK orders are now being accepted. Guides MUST be ordered in multiples of 20 only. Guides will be available in exchange for a donation of $5.25 per copy to the CLC. Shipping and handling are extra at 75 cents per copy. A box of 20 booklets shipped to any location within Illinois costs only $120 and can be sold for $200 netting a profit of $80, a 40% profit margin. What a great way for your club to inform the public and make a profit for your club at the same time! Please place your order with and remit your payment to Challenger Learning Center, and mail it to the following address: Challenger Learning Center, Attn: Stacey Shrewsbury, Heartland Community College, 1500 West Raab Road, Normal, IL 61761-9446 Illinois astronomy clubs should consider taking advantage of this offer. It could become a real money maker for your organization and you’ll be providing a great public service at the same time. Your club can become the “go to” source of information in your area.

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

OCTOBER EDUCATION/PUBLIC OUTREACH REPORTS

Saturday, October 1st saw three TCAA E/PO events: a private planetarium presentation for our members at ISU, class two of the three-part member education course, and a public observing session. Eight members attended a 3:30 PM special planetarium showing of Two Small Pieces of Glass: The Amazing Telescope. The presentation followed “two students as they interacted with an astronomer at a local star party. Along the way, the students learned the history of the telescope from Galileo’s modifications to a child’s spyglass -- using two small pieces of glass -- to the launch of the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope and the future of astronomy.” Following this presentation, ISU Planetarium Director Tom Willmitch gave a tour of the current evening sky, exploring many highlights including the bright stars, constellations, and planets visible from Central Illinois. In attendance were the following TCAA members: The Introduction to Amateur Astronomy course was delivered later that evening. Darren Erickson presented fully half the class, greatly assisting class instructor Carl Wenning. This dynamic duo spent the evening explaining binocular and telescopes: the benefits of and how to use binoculars, how telescopes work, different optical designs, different mounts, and much more. A nearly full complement of students was also in attendance: Chris Franklin and his daughters Emily and Erika, Mark Boulware and his daughter Nataya, Peter Kates and his son Daniel, Sharon MacDonald, Kathryn Foster, Bill Burden, and Tom Willmitch. Unfortunately, Willis and Stacy Kern we unable to attend. Sitting in for the second half of the class were members Jim and Jane Beard from Peoria. The final Public Observing Session for the year commence under cloudy skies that quickly turned to rain. Despite this fact, the assembled members and handful of visitors listed to Tim Stone presented Fading Glories of the Summer Triangle in which he spoke about the embers of long-dead stars. About 30 were present for Tim’s talk. In addition to Tim, the following TCAA members were present: Bob Finnigan, Lee Green, Mark & Bryce Heiniger, Goeff Hughes, Dave Osenga, Dave Peters, Tom Weiland, Jim & Jane Beard, and Nathan Shoop. TCAA volunteers contributed to this year's Autumn Celebration at the Sugar Grove Nature Center on October 23rd. SGNC Director Angela Funk estimates they had at least 3,000 guests this year, making it one of the most successful ever. As Tim Stone noted, “The weather was perfect. We were able to offer views of the sun, and even though it was almost blank. Many people spent time learning about the sun, astronomy, and what the club has to offer. We handed out plenty of schedules for next year's POS, and even a bunch of old Sky & Telescope magazines. We did all that, and I think we all had fun as well!” Assisting with this event were the following TCAA members: Tom Weiland, Bob Finnigan, Sharon MacDonald, Carl Wenning, Lisa Wentzel, Darren Erickson, Tim Stone, Tony Cellini, Dave Osenga, Duane Yockey, Mark & Nataya Boulware, and Lee Green. Retired Sharon MacDonald assists Dominick Prall astronomers Lew Detweiller and Ray Wilson from Illinois Wesleyan University with an Hα view of the sun. were among those who visited.

PRIZE DRAWING WINNER ANNOUNCED

Because we were unable to hold the Telescope Giveaway drawing at the October 1st POS, a drawing was held on Monday, October 3rd at the Wenning residence. The winning “ticket” was drawn by Carolyn Wenning with President Tim Stone, Vice President Bob Finnigan, and Secretary Carl Wenning serving as witnesses. Second and third winners were also drawn in the event that the first or second place winners could not be contacted. The 2016 winner is Karie Fiegel. Karie will be receiving a Celestron 114LCM computerized telescope. The telescope retails for $339.95, and was paid for by an anonymous club donor. Tim informed Karie of her winning. Carl will be transferring the telescope and providing some basic training in its use.

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

IMAGE OF THE MONTH: M33 – A NEARBY STARBURST GALAXY ~ by Tim Stone ~

Familiar to most amateur astronomers from the excellent images available on the internet today, M33 has not always enjoyed such popularity. It is a very low surface brightness galaxy, with only its somewhat brighter center and a few bright knots of stars and HII regions being visible at all in the eyepiece of relatively large aperture telescopes. Being close enough to allow resolution of its stars, M33 has been studied professionally from the early days of cosmology. Some of those stars are Cepheid variables, and using those stellar standard candles, the distance to M33 was very early determined to be approximately the same as M31, The Andromeda Galaxy. We now know M33 is slightly more distant, and through some very clever astrometry using radio telescopes and water masers present in M33, we have measured its proper motion. Together with its radial velocity, we now know its velocity vector, and can conclude it is very likely a satellite of its larger neighbor. Whether or not M33 is indeed a satellite of M31, the two have clearly had a recent encounter, as evidenced by the M33 in Hydrogen Alpha exceptional amount of star birth activity present in the galaxy. The force of this encounter induced shock waves and tidal compression in the relatively dense HII clouds of M33. This resulted in the ferocious star birth activity we see in the tremendous number of regions emitting strongly in the wavelength of Hydrogen Alpha. Examining the Ha channel of our image of the month, one can easily trace the spiral structure of the galaxy. NGC 604 There are literally hundreds of Ha regions ranging in size from truly mammoth to quite small. A normal galaxy contains only a small fraction of this number of star birth regions. The smallest ones visible in this image would be comparable in size to our Great Orion Nebula, M42. NGC 604, the most widely recognized HII region in M33, is one of the largest such regions known. Its diameter is estimated to be between 1,300 and 1,500 light years. If it were as M82, a post-starburst galaxy far from us as the Orion Nebula, it would span at least 45 degrees of our sky. Its central cluster would be so bright that its members could conceivably be visible in broad daylight. In 1980, Roberta Humphreys and Alan Sandage published a paper which mapped at least 140 stellar OB associations in M33. These associations correspond closely to the distribution of HII regions in the galaxy, and confirm that stars are being born there at an incredible rate. One study concludes that the star formation rate (SFR) in M33 is .45 solar masses per year. By comparison, the Milky Way SFR is .68 solar masses per year (at the low end of the estimate). While M33 has a lower rate, it also has about one tenth the mass, so the SFR is some seven times higher in M33 per unit mass. OB Associations in M33

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

The star birth rate in M33 cannot long be sustained; its massive, hot blue stars will one day explode one after another in what will be, for all intents and purposes, a supernova storm. Supernova storms are not without precedent in our universe. M82 is one such nearby galaxy, which has been almost completely disrupted by supernovae as the multitude of stars born after its last encounter with nearby M81 come to their violent end. The shock waves of the supernova storm in M82 are driving a “superwind” out of the galaxy, visible to photographic telescopes here on earth. It’s possible that in the future M33 will assume a similar appearance.

This image of M33 (right) is the result of 11.25 hours of imaging in September, 2016, on the TCAA AG Optical Systems 16” Harmer-Wynne in the Prairie Sky Observatory, and 4.75 hours in September and October 2013 on the PlaneWave Corrected Dall- Kirkham 17”, then in the Sugar Grove Observatory.

NOMINATIONS TIME ONCE AGAIN (continued from page 2) ing Amateur Astronomers. 2017 will the 30th anniversary of the establishment of this award, and the award series came to an end in 2011 when the commemorative plaque become entirely filled. Due to the generosity of an anonymous donor, the award was earlier this year re-approved by the Board when a now plaque was promised. To make your nominations for any of the club’s Board of Members (5 candidates are required) contact Bob Finning at [email protected]. To make your nominations for club awards, contact club Secretary Carl Wenning at [email protected]. More information about the club awards can be found starting on page 17 of this issue of the newsletter.

MINUTES OF OCTOBER 25TH SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The TCAA Board of Directors, committee chairs, and other members held a special meeting on the evening of October 25th to address three ideas for possible implementation. The meeting was called to order at 6:37 PM. In attendance were the following Board members: Tim Stone, Bob Finnigan, Dave Osenga, Tom Weiland, and Carl Wenning. Also in attendance were committee chairpersons and members Lisa Wentzel, Darren Erickson, David Meyer, and Justin Meyer. (Several other members sent written comments. Written comments were received from Lee Green, Tony Cellini, Tom Willmitch, and Duane Yockey.) The ideas addressed were the following: IDEA #1: Updating the SGO mount. With the placement of the 12” Meade and Hα telescopes on the SGO tandem mount, we now have a 6” extension shaft plus two counterweights on the declination axis of the Astro-Physics 1100 mount to balance the telescopes. Carl has proposed paying for the necessary 24-lb. counterweight so that we can remove the extension shaft making more room for people to move around in the dome. Bob noted that we have a small credit with

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

Astro-Physics and he will contact them about the precise amount that can be applied to the order. The Board accepted Carl’s donation with 4 votes in favor and 0 against. IDEA #2a: Acquiring upgrades for the SGO dome. It was pointed out that this would be an improvement to the operability of SGO to have a motor to rotate the dome. The dome could then be turned with the flip of a switch, though the dome would not be interfaced with the existing Astro-Physics mount. The consensus of the broader group was in favor of the upgrade, though there were oral and written statements against doing so. Comments such as rotating the dome is a fun feature to demonstrate, and that motorizing it will remove all the fun. Other comments indicated that this update is both expensive and unnecessary. Frequent users of the SGO strongly disagreed with these expressed opinions. It was noted that the dome is at times difficult to turn and sometimes seizes, moving the dome in the presence of guests is a bother, and several members from the Introduction to Amateur Astronomy course have noted that it is hard to move the dome. The Board had previously agreed to accept a gift from “Anonymous” replacing the lower panel of the Ash Dome slot with a fold out device. Anonymous offered to pay for both upgrades and indicated that he had placed all items on order two days before the approval of the Board. This caused Tom to express concern that the established policy “not to purchase before the Board approves a donation” was not followed. President Stone cautioned Anon about this. In the end, the Board agreed to accept the latter’s donation with 3 votes in favor and 1 opposed. IDEA #2b: Installing upgrades on the SGO dome. The cost of installing the lower panel of the dome slot plus the track and motor drive to turn the SGO dome were then considered as a separate but related topic. It has been roughly estimated to cost $4,000 to install both upgrades approved under IDEA #2a. Carl Wenning offered to foot $2,000 of the installation expense; it was reported that Tony Cellini has offered to foot some of the installation expense as well, but that no dollar amount was provided. The Board agreed to contribute club funds up to but not exceeding $1,500 for the installation work if the support by Carl and Tony does not entirely cover the bill. If the cost exceeds available donations, Anon will pick up the remainder of the bill. The motion passed the motion to accept these donations 3 votes in favor and 1 opposed. IDEA #3: Purchasing a 24” f/11 Astrograph for PSO: Several members have indicated a need for a longer focal length photographic telescope for our imagers. A 24” f/11 telescope has been described as filling the bill. Anon is willing to pay for a special-request 24” f/11 AG Optical IDK telescope, in addition to a Paramount Taurus fork mount capable of holding 400 lbs. It was agreed in discussion that this telescope would be housed in PSO, negating the need for a separate observatory (which was of considerable concern to several). A pier would need to be acquired, but that will be considered approximately 2 years from now when both telescope and mount are about to be delivered. Carl motioned that Anon’s offer of the donation of telescope and mount be accepted; Bob Finnigan seconded. Pros and cons of acquiring the new telescope were then addressed. The benefits of having such a telescope were described. It was noted that by removing the CDK 17”, there basically will be a “net zero” maintenance change according to Tim, the Property Manager. After further discussion about payment procedures, the Board approved the donation with 4 in favor and 0 opposed with the assurances from Anon that the telescope would not be a liability to the club prior to complete prepayment and receipt. The meeting closed with a brief discussion about switching out the CDK 17” telescope, Paramount mount, and pier. We are considering the sale of these items two years from now at a good price to a worthy cause. The meeting was adjourned at 8:01 PM. Respectfully submitted, Carl Wenning, Secretary

TCAA BENEFITS FROM PRINT4GOOD CAMPAIGN ~by Tom Weiland ~

For the second year, Bloomington Offset Process Inc. (bopi) committed to printing high quality color brochures for 501(c)(3) non-profits at no cost. TCAA Board member Tom Weiland was made aware of this opportunity while meeting with Jill Wallace, Educational Coordinator at Sugar Grove Nature Center (SGNC). With approval of the Board, Tom submitted the content and artwork for our 2017 Public Observing Sessions brochure. Bopi committed half a day’s production on its KBA perfecting press (see Figure 1) to their Print4Good campaign. This machine has the ability to print several projects simultaneously at speeds up to 18,000 sheets per hour. The program allows for each organization to submit a single brochure for a 2,000 copy run. 2,000 copies provided the TCAA with enough color copies for our own use as well as providing copies for the brochure rack at SGNC. We also have sufficient copies for distribution at the Challenger Learning Center and the ISU Planetarium. (TCAA would normally run 500 black and white copies on plain paper).

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

Tom, as TCAA contact, was invited to bopi on October 19th for a tour of their facility and to see the KBA in action. Bopi CEO Tom Mercier conducted the tour. (See Figure 1.) “The machine itself is quite incredible” reported Tom, “we were witness to its speed as we watched it complete the printing of 2,000 (24 X 36 inch) sheets in a matter of minutes.” The large sheet size allows for eight (8.5 X 11) brochures to be printed at the same time (see Figure 2).

Figure 1: Tom Mercier at press control Figure 2. KBA perfecting press Figure 3. Tom Weiland with print job

With some helpful coordination from the bopi staff, the TCAA brochures were cut, folded, and boxed in time for distribution at the October 22nd SGNC Autumn Celebration. This program provided over 50 non-profits with outreach materials at no cost, and we applaud bopi for their continuing support of these organizations (see Figure 3).

NEW MEMBERSHIP BROCHURE PRINTED

On October 12th the TCAA Board of Directors approved a new membership brochure. The brochure is a “tri-fold” meaning that it has three panels and two folds. Images are shown below. We have been without a membership brochure for some time, and the old brochure was seriously out of date. While the brochure lacks pictures, whitespace, and is a bit wordy, the Board felt it more important to provide detailed information rather than a glitzy appearance. FedEx printed and folded 250 copies of the brochure on light blue mat paper stock. Copies will be disseminated during the TCAA’s public events (POS, SGNC Autumn Celebration, etc.), and will also be distributed through both the Sugar Grove Nature Center’s display rack and the ISU Planetarium. Additional copies will be printed as needed. A PDF version of the document is now available on the TCAA website at the following URL: http://tcaa.us/Download/TCAA_Membership_Brochure.pdf

Figure 1

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

PUBLIC OBSERVING SESSIONS FOR 2017

The TCAA Board of Directors has approved the following schedule and topics for the 2017 public observing sessions at SGNC. In addition to the presentations described below, we will conduct a laser-guided sky tour and have telescopes set up for viewing if the sky is clear. Speakers, if you want your description(s) changed in any way, please contact the editor. These descriptions will be posted on Facebook with the new year.

Mar 25 Orion and Company (Tim Stone) 7:00 – 9:00 PM Orion is a prominent constellation located on the celestial equator and visible throughout the world. It is one of the most conspicuous and recognizable constellations in the night sky.

Apr 29 Wonders of Jupiter (Mark Cabaj) 8:30-10:30 PM Jupiter is the fifth planet from the Sun and the largest in the Solar System. It is a giant gas giant planet with a mass one-thousandth that of the Sun, but two and a half times that of all the other planets in the Solar System

combined.

May 27 Summer Binocular Objects (Darren Erickson) 9:00-11:00 PM You don’t need a large telescope to see object in the Milky Way, or deep space as a matter of fact. Learn what to look for and where you will find it using simple binoculars under a dark night sky.

Jun 24 Wonders of Saturn (Mark Cabaj) 9:00-11:00 PM Saturn is the sixth planet from the Sun and the second-largest in the Solar System after Jupiter. It too is a gas giant with an average radius about nine times that of Earth. It is surrounded by an amazing ring system.

Jul 29 The Total Solar Eclipse of August 21st (Carl Wenning) 9:00-11:00 PM A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon crosses over the face of the sun and the moon’s shadow strikes the Earth's surface. This summer’s total solar eclipse will cause one of the most majestic natural wonders that most people

will see during their lifetimes, and Illinois is the place to be to see it.

Aug 26 Moon and Sun (Tom Weiland) 8:00-10:00 PM Our moon, the brightest object in the sky after the Sun, is the sole natural satellite of the Earth. Learn about the moon's relationship to, and impact on, the Earth, including a review of the recent total solar eclipse. Some of the

interesting features on our nearest celestial neighbor will be presented also.

Sep 23 Emission Nebulae of the Milky Way (Tim Stone) 7:30-9:30 PM An emission nebula is a nebula formed of ionized gases that emit light of various colors. The most common source of this ionization is high-energy photons emitted from a nearby hot star.

Oct 14 The Andromeda Galaxy (Nataya & Mark Boulware) 7:00-9:00 PM The Andromeda Galaxy is a spiral galaxy approximately 2.5 million light years from Earth. It is the nearest major

galaxy to the Milky Way.

FOR THE RECORD

The following items were previously declared “unwanted items” by the TCAA Board of Directors. Some are still available in exchange for a suitable gift to the TCAA. Item are available to both TCAA members and non-members. No reasonable donation will be turned down. The dispositions of all unwanted club items are as follows:

 10” Meade telescope with “goto” fork mount (no tripod) – Valuation: $2,100 Gifted for $500 donation  Lunt 60mm Hydrogen-alpha single stack solar telescope (LS60THα) – Valuation: $2,485 Reduced to $1,775  Park crosshair eyepiece for finder telescope – Valuation: $14 Reduced to $10  Image erector prism – Valuation: $21 Reduced to $15 Gifted for $12 donation

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

 Orion 12.5mm illuminated reticle eyepiece – Valuation: $44 Reduced to $31 Gifted for $20 donation  Meade 9mm Plössl illuminate reticle eyepiece – Valuation: $42 Reduced to $30 We have decided to keep this.  Smart Astronomy 5x Barlow lens – Valuation: $40 Reduced to $28 Gifted for $18 donation  5-position manual filter wheel w filters (Hα, Hβ, SII, OIII, & clear) – Valuation: $360 Reduced to $255 Gifted for $150  Thousand Oaks white light solar filter (110mm aperture, type 2) – Valuation: $48 Reduced to $34 Gifted for $20  Baader C-Energy Rejection Filter (110mm aperture) – Valuation: $200 Reduced to $134.15 Gifted for $134.15  Lumicon deep-sky filter for screwing into 1¼” eyepiece – Valuation: $105 Reduced to $75 Gifted for $20 donation  Lumicon comet filter for 2” eyepiece – Valuation: $100 Reduced to $71 We have decided to keep this.  Argo Navis push-to guide with encoder rings – Valuation: $625 Reduced to $445  Losmandy tandem mounting plate – Valuation: $70 Reduced to $50  Celestron 14” optical tube assembly only, no mount, no pier (produced in 1974 and completely refurbished by TCAA in 2014, focus mechanism needs to be repaired) – Valuation: None Transaction pending.

Thus far the club has netted $884.15 from the distribution of eight unwanted items in recognition of donations. If you are interested in acquiring any of the remaining items, please contact TCAA President and Property Manager Tim Stone at [email protected].

ASTROBITS – NEWS FROM AROUND THE TCAA

 Some of our members are probably thinking it is time to rename the Illinois Dark Sky Star Party using the adjective Cloudy in place of Dark. That moniker has been justly earned as it has been cloudy – even rainy – multiple times over the past few years. The event was plagued again by both clouds and rain this year. At least two of our members who paid in advance $100 or more for registration and meals, decided not to attend as a result of the cloudy sky and intermittent rain. This causes an unacceptable dilemma in this member’s mind as well as perhaps some others’. Advance registration for the event is $50 and, if one is unwilling to attend, there is no refund. (Any reserved meals are similarly lost.) On-site registration now incurs a $20 late fee, so that $20 comes as an added expense if one choses to attend without pre- registering. It looks like we are in a Catch 22 situation with the IDSSP because of the unpredictable weather.  Don’t forget that an amendment has been proposed and approved by the TCAA Board of Directors for vote by the membership at February’s Annual Meeting slated for Saturday, February 11, 2017. The change, if passed, will no longer require the secretary and treasurer to be members of the Board, though they are permitted to serve on the Board if so elected. See the October issue of The OBSERVER for a detailed description of the proposed amendment.  A beautifully clear night greeted observers at SGNC on the evening of October 4th. Bob Finnigan, Tony Cellini, Kathryn Foster & Bill Burden, Carl Wenning, and Tim Stone. While our “regulars” busied themselves with imaging at PSO, Carl worked with Kathryn and Bill to help them learn how to use the SGO 12” for visual observing. With one more check out session, they will have demonstrated their ability to use the equipment properly and will be rewarded with a key.  The following night, October 5th, Carl met with Peter and Daniel Kates to provide them an orientation to the SGO 12” telescope. Following an introduction, they were able to observe about 10-15 objects on their own. Also present that evening were Bob Finnigan and Tony Cellini who were imaging in PSO. Dave Meyer, accompanied by his friend Chris Wagoner, were testing out Dave’s newly acquired CPC 11” telescope and it performed beautifully. Stratus clouds begin to cover the beautifully clear sky at around 9 PM, and observing quickly drew to a close.  Property manager Tim Stone reported ongoing mirror shift problems with the 16” telescope on October 6th. “With further instructions from AG Optical, I was able to immobilize the primary mirror last night, but then I could not return the system to perfect collimation. I imagine that means the primary is now out of alignment. The collimation is not bad, but it'll probably make me crazy knowing it's not as good as it could be. I'll continue to work with it as I can during bright moon. I hate the thought of aligning the primary. To do it right requires removing the camera, and the use of equipment we don't currently have. I'll try trial and error first.” Good luck Tim!  Pete & Daniel Kates, Mark & Nataya Boulware and Carl Wenning spent the evening of October 9th in training on the SGO telescope. This was the Kates’ second training session and the Boulware’s first. Pete & Daniel helped train Mark and Nataya thereby successfully demonstrating the appropriate use of the dome and telescope. Pete was awarded his observatory key in exchange for his $10 key holder fee; Mark & Nataya will earn their key after their second checkout.

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The same also goes for Kathryn Foster & Bill Burden. Also observing that evening were Tim Stone, Bob Finnigan, Darren Erickson, and Tom Willmitch.  Preparations are under way for the August 21st total solar eclipse with the help of a good friend. Recently, Lisa Wentzel provided Carl Wenning with a CG-4 Omni mount with tripod and Vixen mounting plate for use with his 40mm Coronado PST (personal solar telescope). Carl will be motorizing the mount so that the sun can be effortlessly observed in Hα light any time that it is visible. The PST has seen limited use for the past several years due to lack of a proper mount. Carl is really looking forward to its use thanks to Lisa.  Former member and past president Kevin Brown promised a friend that he would post that his friend wants to sell his barely used telescope. It is a Bushnell 5" NorthStar Maksutov Cassegrain, model number 78-8850. It has a "goto" electronic control system with 2000 celestial objects in memory, as well as a couple of 1.25" eyepieces. He is asking $150. If you are interested, please call (309) 963-4786 and ask for Rich.  On October 15th, Tony Cellini reported, “I was at SGNC this afternoon and I got the Lunt 80mm Hα scope set up on the CGEM with its double stack module. Not much activity today, buy I was able to see a few filaments, one small prominence and some plages. Nice scope. I also modified the case foam so that both etalons can be permanently installed.” Thanks, Tony, for getting this instrument up and running in preparation for SGNC’s Autumn Celebration!  On the afternoon of October 17th, Carl Wenning was out observing the sun with his PST using the CG-4 mount recently acquired from Lisa Wenzel. Using a Sol-insulation Blanket (reflective breathable silver on the outside and a nearly opaque black velour on the inside), Carl was able to get excellent views of the sun by observing from within a pitch black environment. This enhanced views of the sun tremendously. The blanket is seen in the chair. Solar observers are encouraged to check out this great adjunct to solar observing.  Carl Wenning has been communicating recently with Jamey Jenkins of Homer, IL, about Jamey’s possible acquisition of the club’s unwanted Thousand Oaks solar energy rejection pre-filter for use with an Hα unit. During the discussion, Carl learned about Jamey’s tremendous solar imaging website that exhibits his solar Hα work. If you want to be impressed, check it out at: www.flickr.com/photos/jameyjenkins/  Following the receipt of 2000 POS brochures, Tom Weiland prepared a letter of thanks. Following approval of the Board, it was sent out under the signature of Secretary Wenning. The Board greatly appreciates Tom’s efforts from beginning to end in getting the 2017 POS color brochures printed.  ALCor Duane Yockey has noted recently that Lisa Wentzel has completed two AL observing programs: Messier (Honorary – having completed all 110 observations) and Binocular Double Star. Certificates and pins will be awarded at the TCAA’s February 11th Annual Meeting. Congratulations Lisa!  Just prior to SGNC’s Autumn Celebration Tim Stone placed four images of his work on the walls of the SGO welcome center (see next page). Visitors can now see a sampling of Tim’s tremendous work. Tim’s images now augment the TCAA’s Normal 1 5 0 history poster that is also there.

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 Carl Wenning took his granddaughter Thérèse Vieyra and her parents Chrystian and Rebecca viewing at SGNC on the evening of Thursday, October 27th. They were able to view 6-7 showcase objects before the clouds moved in around 8:30 PM. The Vieyra family lives in Washington, DC, and rarely gets to see the sky where they live. It was treat for Thérèse.  The next regularly-schedule Board of Directors meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 15th, at the home of Carl Wenning in Normal. The meeting will commence at 6:30 PM.

LAST INTRODUCTION TO AMATEUR ASTRONOMY COURSE MEETING NOVEMBER 5TH

Class members are hereby reminded that the last of three monthly meetings of the Introduction to Amateur Astronomy course will be held at Sugar Grove Nature Center on Saturday, November 5th from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. This month we will return our attention to the telescope, how to use it and what accessories can be used with it. Last month we addressed topics in chapters 11-18, and chapter 19 was assigned as a homework reading. This month we will address selected topics in chapters 20-34 as time permits, though all student should have read through page 46 of the course guide. Those who wish to acquire a key to SGO should have read chapters 40-46. Please bring your course manual with you to class as we will be using it to examine various illustrations found therein. We will do some additional observing (if the sky is clear) and training on the SGO 12” telescope after class with special attention to the “sync” function that will make finding objects much easier. Be certain to over prepare for the chilly autumn weather by wearing a coat, hat, and gloves as the weather dictates. Be aware that standing around under chilly conditions will quickly turn cool to cold after only a short while (see chapter 32 of the course guide).

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

OBSERVING SESSION AT THE PAUL CASTLE MEMORIAL OBSERVATORY 04 OCT 2016

Editor’s note: What follows is a slightly abridged observing account from Alan Sheidler, President of Popular Astronomy Club in the Quad Cities. Those who attended the September Mini Conference might recall that Alan purchased the Meade 10” telescope from the TCAA’s inventory declared “unwanted” by the Board. This account describes Alan’s experiences in his first thorough use of this instrument. It’s great to know that Alan appears to be very satisfied with his acquisition.

Yesterday, October 4th, Terry Dufek and I met at the Paul Castle Memorial Observatory to take advantage of clear weather and do some observing. We have had very little clear weather in almost two weeks. The last observing session I participated in was at the TCAA's mini conference (Bloomington-Normal) on September 24th. It was at this mini conference that I purchased a used 10" Meade LX200 SCT and field tripod which were some of the many items on sale at the TCAA's swap meet. Last night was the first real opportunity I have had to take my "new" scope out and put it through its paces. I am pleased to report this scope performed very well. The following are my observing notes. Before we could discern any alignment stars, we started out by manually pointing the scope at the planet Venus which was low in the west. Venus is slowly distancing itself from the sun and is now showing a small, gibbous phase. We then swung the scope to a beautiful crescent moon. While observing the moon, at approximately 7:10PM, we noticed a fairly bright star very close to the sunlit crescent moon which had only just appeared from being occulted by the moon. Stellarium identifies this star as Zuben Elakrab, a 3.9 magnitude star in the constellation Libra. This was a very pleasing and amazing, chance observation. It is not very often one sees a bright star hovering in stark contrast to the nearby crescent moon. We could actually see the moon's motion relative this star in real time! By this time, it was dark enough to discern some of the brighter stars and we selected Altair and Arcturus to perform a 2-star alignment for the telescope's computer system. Then, using the scope's Goto system we targeted the planets Saturn and Mars. Saturn's moon Titan and one or two of the other dimmer moons were visible. Mars is gibbous, but is very much smaller in size than it was last spring. We noted some faint surface markings but because Mars is more than 160 million kilometers distant from earth, coherent detail eluded us. Using the scope's GOTO system, both planets popped right into the central field of PAC's Al Sheidler and Terry Dufek with 10” view using a 20mm eyepiece (125X). Because Mars is in Sagittarius, we then decided to see if the scope could find some of the many wondrous Messier objects nearby in the "teapot". The following is a list of the objects in the order in which they were observed: M22, M23, M28, M8, M20, M71, M17, M21, M54, M55, M69, M70, and M75. We also observed some other objects: M27, M57, M13, 65 Piscium, Gamma Andromedae, NGC 7662, Eta Cassiopeia, M52, M103, NGC 457, and Erakis – the Garnet Star. We had to terminate our viewing session at 10:30 PM as the clouds started rolling in to obscure or vision and stop the fun. Thanks. Alan Sheidler. PS: I would like to thank some folks for helping with my "new" scope. First, thanks to the TCAA for hosting the Mini Conference and to selling me a nice telescope. Also would like to thank Bryan Racer, Jeff Struve and Ken Boquist for figuring out the OTA of my scope was mounted backwards. With your help, we removed the OTA and remounted it correctly which has indeed corrected the problems I initially experienced in Bloomington. Thanks also to Jeff Struve for loaning me some various eyepieces to try out with my scope.

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TCAA PHOTO GALLERY

M81 – Image by Tim Stone: Justin and I remembered some work he had Herschel’s Garnet Star – Image by Tim Stone: Just a quick snapshot of IC done on M81 in April, and so I found that data and stacked it to see what it 1396 in RGB with the 10". This nebula contains the Elephant Trunk Nebula, looked like. The luminance data was good, but the color data wasn't. So I and so is usually imaged in narrowband, which ignores the gorgeous color of went back in the archive and found some imaging I'd done on that same nearby Mu Cephei, Herschel's Garnet Star. It's an enormous red giant star, galaxy in 2014. The color data was better, but not great, and the luminance with a radius 1920x the sun's. If it were in the sun's position, its surface was pretty good. I calibrated and stacked the whole bunch, and ended up would be between the orbit of Jupiter and Saturn. This thing is gonna blow with stacks of 41 luminance, and 7 RGB. Here's the result. someday, and at its mass, probably make a black hole in the process.

M33 – Image by Tim Stone: I started an image of M33 on the 16" at some Sh2-155 – Image by Bob Finnigan: Known as the Cave Nebula or Caldwell 9, point while wrestling with its collimation (which is still not perfect), and Sh2-155 is a dim and very diffuse bright nebula within a larger nebula we've finally had some clearish nights so I could finish the image. This is complex located in Cepheus. The larger nebula contains emission, reflection, 10x600b2RGB, 10x900b1 Hα, 15x900b1L for a total of 11.25 integration and dark nebulosity. This image was taken with the CDK 20” telescope in hours. The Hα really enhances this image, if you ask me. PSO. No imaging data was provided. Copyright © 2016 TCAA 16 All rights reserved.

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

NOMINATIONS FOR BOARD AND AWARDS NOW BEING SOUGHT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Nominations are now being sought for the 2017-2018 Board of Directors. A new Board will be elected at the club’s Annual Meeting in February (date TBD). In accordance with the club’s Bylaws, the president and vice president are determined by the Board members at their first meeting and are selected from among the Board members. Other officers and positions – e.g., secretary, treasurer, historian, newsletter editor, ALCor, IT coordinator, membership coordinator, and property manager – are appointed from among the membership. If you are interested in running for the Board of Directors or accepting an appointed position, please contact TCAA Vice President Bob Finnigan at [email protected]. Nominations will be accepted up to the time of the elections at the Annual Meeting.

CLUB AWARDS: Each year at the club’s Annual Meeting and Banquet, Board members are elected, bylaws amendments voted upon, annual reports are given, and members are recognized for their service to the club and field of amateur astronomy. 2015 will be no different. The Board of Directors is now calling for award nominations in three categories.

Nominations are now being accepted for the John and Bertha Kieviet Founders Award. This award is conferred upon a TCAA member to recognize demonstrated leadership to the club. Those so recognized need not have been a president of the club. If leadership is interpreted in terms of service to the membership, this is as close as the TCAA comes to having a distinguished service citation.

Nominations are now being accepted for the Eugene and Donna Miller Family Award. This award acknowledges the strong efforts by a family to participate in the club as a unit. One or more parents are recognized for their efforts to instill within their children interest in and dedication to amateur astronomy.

Nominations are now being accepted for Lifelong Honorary Membership. This designation is reserved for those TCAA members show have provided exceptional meritorious services to the club in terms of contributions of time and resources. This signal honor has been conferred only five times in the 55-year history of the TCAA. During the past 5 years, the following individuals have been recognized:

Award 2011 2012 2013 & 2014 2015 2016 Kieviet Founders William Carney Lee Green Not awarded Tom Weiland Tim Stone Miller Family Not awarded Not awarded Not awarded M. & W. Heiniger M. & D. Boulware Lifelong Honorary Robert Finnigan Not awarded Not awarded Not awarded Not awarded

Nominations are now being accepted for G. Weldon Schuette Society of Outstanding Amateur Astronomers. Returning after many years, this award recognizes a TCAA member who has demonstrated great skill in observing, dedication to the club’s education and public outreach efforts, and commitment to providing service to the membership. While holding the AL’s Messier Award is recommended, it is not required by the Standing Rule that established this award in 1987. This award was last presented in 2011 at which time the honorary plaque as filled. Earlier this year, the Board accepted the anonymous donation of a new plaque in Weldon’s honor due to the need for such recognition and the fact that January 17, 2017 will be the 100th anniversary of Weldon’s birth. He was born in rural Ford county northeast of Gibson City, IL, and was an extremely active member of the club serving in every elected office from 1962 until he passed away quite unexpectedly in 1986. Members of this society include the following:

 Bertha Kieviet (1987)  Don Johnson (1990)  Lenore Trainor (1997)  Mike Rogers (2009)  Carl Wenning (1988)  Jim Moncher (1991)  William Carney (2005)  Lee Green (2010)  Sharon MacDonald (1989)  Sandy McNamara (1994)  Dan Miller (2008)  Tony Cellini (2011)

Please e-mail your award nomination(s) to President Tim Stone at [email protected] or Secretary Carl Wenning at [email protected]. When recommending (a) candidate(s), a short description explaining why you feel the nominee(s) deserve(s) the award(s) is required. The current Board of Directors and appointed officers will make decisions about the awards during their January Board meeting, so be certain to get your nominations in at least a day before.

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RENEWING YOUR TCAA MEMBERSHIP

The TCAA works to promote in every way among its members and the general public an interest in and knowledge of astronomy and its allied sciences, to advance amateur astronomy and observational techniques, to render assistance to other individuals or organizations working in the same or related fields, and to do everything necessary and proper to further such on a formal or informal basis. The TCAA is a Federally recognized non-profit entity organized exclusively for education and scientific purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service code. The TCAA currently supports family friendly public observing sessions at SGNC, public outreach events such as the recent May 9, 2016 transit of Mercury and the upcoming August 21, 2017 total solar eclipse field trip, hosting of NCRAL meetings (2010 and 2016), September mini conferences, and education courses for our membership and the general public. The TCAA maintains two observatories including payment of insurance, and publishes an award-winning club newsletter. We support Sugar Grove Nature Center through their membership program, maintain a loaner telescope program, and provide many other benefits as outlined in TCAA Guide #2 – Membership and Benefits. Your TCAA membership supports education and public outreach in Central Illinois and regions beyond. Membership dues and the generosity of its members are the club’s primary means of financial support. We receive no grants or public funds. We have unmet needs. By renewing your membership when it comes due, you can help to ensure our continuing efforts.

TCAA ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER

Did you know that the TCAA is on both Facebook and Twitter? We encourage users of both social networks to follow the TCAA to see what the club is doing. If you have not yet joined us on Facebook, you are missing important reminders about astronomical events posted several times weekly. You can find us on Facebook by searching either TCAA or Twin City Amateur Astronomers. We can be found on Twitter at @TC_Astro.

HOWTIMEFLIES

The Twin City Amateur Astronomers was founded in 1960 through the efforts of John & Bertha Kieviet. Over the years, newsletter editors David B. Williams, G. Weldon Schuette, Garry Skinner, Jim Moncher, Mike Rogers & Jean Memken, Rebecca Wenning, and Erin Estabrook (as well as other contributors) documented the efforts of the club. Now, TCAA Editor and Historian Carl Wenning continues that effort and provides monthly updates about the history of the club going back in intervals of 40, 25, and 10 years. Details about all mentioned events will be found in either the publication Twin City Amateur Astronomers: 1960-2010 or in the archive of The OBSERVER found on the TCAA website.

40 Years Ago: November 1976 – President Weldon Schuette – while visiting relatives in eastern Indiana over Thanksgiving – made a side trip to Delphos, Ohio (in western Ohio) and met Mr. Leslie Peltier at his home there. Peltier is an amateur astronomer who discovered comets back in the ‘30’s and ‘40’s and also wrote the book Starlight Nights.

25 Years Ago: November 1991 – The club is now, for the first time, selling attire with the TCAA logo. The club has for sale silk screened hats, t-shirts, and sweatshirts. (Since that time the club has sold such attire only one other time, that being shortly after the current logo was approved.)

10 Years Ago: November 2006 – President Dan Miller noted at the monthly meeting that State Farm employees who volunteer 40 hours of time to a non-profit (of which the TCAA is one) can earn a $500 contribution on behalf of the 501(c)(3).

Vol. 41, No. 11 The OBSERVER of the Twin City Amateur Astronomers November 2016

TCAA TREASURER’S REPORT FOR OCTOBER 2016

Description Memo Category Amount BALANCE 9/27/2016 4,647.16 From Mini-Conference 2017 Eclipse Booklets 110.00 Equipment Sale Fundraiser 690.00 Willmitch Education Class 30.00 2017 Eclipse Booklets 30.00 Heiniger Dues Received 40.00 Donation 25.00 Wentzel Dues Received 39.80 Edge Dues Received 25.13 Wentzel Dues Received 39.80 Struve Dues Received 39.80 Donation 3,880.00 Membership Brochures Printing and Reproduction (71.76) Donation 5,000.00 Donation 259.80 Equipment Sale Fundraiser 50.00 Solar Eclipse Book Fundraiser 30.00 Astro-Physics, Inc. SGO Equipment (259.80) Woodland Hills Camera Payment on Account (5,000.00) Commerce Bank Transfer to Savings (1,000.00) Ash Manufacturing Dome Shutter and Azimuth Drive (3,878.88) BALANCE 10/29/2016 4,726.05

TOTAL INFLOWS 10,289.33

TOTAL OUTFLOWS (10,210.44)

NET TOTAL 78.89

Checking Account Balance – October 29, 2016 $4,726.05 Savings Account Balance – October 29, 2016 $10,009.75

Total TCAA Funds – October 29, 2016 $14,735.80

All transactions are reconciled with the bank statements as of this date. Respectfully submitted, Dave Osenga, Treasurer

PREPARING FOR CAMP ONDESSONK ECLIPSE PROGRAM

TCAA members can now see information relating to our visit to Camp Ondessonk to teach lessons in preparation for the August 21st total solar eclipse. This information is being provided now so TCAA members might plan. The TCAA will, in cooperation with the CUAS, be hosting an eclipse workshop. Official program presenters ONLY will have their meal and lodging expenses covered by the camp. Family members accompanying presenters are required to pay for meals and lodging. More information will be provided in coming months after a complete Memorandum of Agreement is worked out. Contact the editor at [email protected] if you would like to have the 8-page Camp Ondessonk PDF document.