SSAS Minutes

June 1, 2005

The meeting started with an exceptional presentation by Mal MacDonald. Mal talked about the North Star, and Constellations. He began the talk by reviewing the early history of astronomy. He spoke of the many early philosophers, astronomers and scientists and their individual theories of the solar system, the galaxy and the universe.

Next Mal illustrated the many different ways of finding the North Star. He followed by illustrating the different methods used to line up a scope, including the drift method.

Using some outstanding charts and graphs, Mal showed us how to use star charts to find our way around the evening sky.

Thanks Mal!

Business Meeting:

1. The annual BBQ will be held on July 30^th at Louis’ house. This family event will begin at 3:00 PM. There will be a mailing to the membership regarding this event.

2. Prior to the BBQ, the Board of Directors Meeting will take place at 1:00 PM. Members of the society are welcome at the meeting.

3. There was a discussion about Astronomy Appreciation Day and the lack of participation. There was much discussion in possible changes next year, including looking at other locations.

4. Bruce went over the details of the picnic with the ATMoB, on June 4^th.

5. It was agreed that we would go to Myles Standish State Forest on Friday, June 24^th to view the conjunction, with a rain date of Saturday, June 25^th.

6. Bill talked about the building of the observatory at Plymouth South Middle School.