Join us August 11th, 2018 at 6:30 p.m. for an engaging and informative discussion on astronomy and mythology given by one of the Charlie Elliott Astronomy founders, Phil Sacco. Those who have been to any of Phil’s presentations know that he is a highly sought after, dynamic, and engaging speaker. When I met Phil, I was attending my first Charlie Elliott Astronomy meeting and setting up my telescope while answering questions from a group of inquisitive youngsters in spite of the fact that they knew about as much as I did about telescopes. Even though the sun hadn’t set and there was nothing to see yet, they wanted to look in the eyepiece, so I asked Phil if I could borrow his step stool. Phil kindly obliged and we’ve been friends ever since. That night, on what we now call Jon Wood Astronomy Field, Phil gave an impromptu “Walk-and-Talk” to a group of 30 captivated visitors about the visible constellations. Not only did we learn where these constellations were in the sky, we learned their significance in cultures that existed many centuries past. For our August meeting, Phil will reprise his impromptu field presentation and discuss the mythology, history, and cultural significance of the constellations you’ll see in the May night sky. Prepare to be informed and entertained!

After a renewed childhood interest in Astronomy, Phil went on to become an officer of the Atlanta Astronomy Club, serving as President, Vice President, and Observing Supervisor. Phil also served on a national scale as the Southeast Regional Director of the Astronomical League. Today, Phil is the eleventh person to earn the title of Master Observer, one given to those individuals who complete a series of required and optional Astronomical League observing programs. There are currently less than 200 Master Observers in the United States.

Phil isn’t a Georgia native, but got here as fast he could. Born in New York at a very young age, Phil moved to Georgia as a young boy, eventually earning degrees at Augusta University and Medical College of Georgia, School of Dentistry, graduating summa cum laude. When not talking about or observing the night sky, Phil enjoys making mead using a 2000 year old Roman recipe and performing as a magician.

If you haven’t found it already, check out our Facebook Page. You’ll find a welcoming group of people sharing ideas and tips as well as organizing ad-hoc observing and imaging sessions on Jon Wood Astronomy Field.

Meetings start approximately 2 hours before sunset. Meeting rooms and start times vary, so please check back here for details. Public stargazing on Jon Wood Astronomy Field follows the meeting.

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