Meeting Details

Join us in April when Theo Ramakers presents his research on the current solar cycle and the transition to cycle 25.  To form a baseline for this research, Mr. Ramakers had to create a database of solar observations and leveraged the archives of the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers, NASA, and NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.  Yes, space weather is a thing!  For his research, Mr. Ramakers used the average size of sun spots rather than the quantity and will cover the progression of solar cycle 24 as well as the transitions of cycles dating back to 1874!

Mr. Ramakers is a retired software professional and found his interest in astronomy while in the Boy Scouts growing up in the Netherlands.  Orion has always been his favorite.  As it usually goes with most of us, Mr. Ramakers returned to amateur astronomy later in life when his children gave him a telescope for Christmas.  His initial interest was in planetary observation and imaging.  Mr. Ramakers has been involved with Charlie Elliott Astronomy and served as Director from 2008 to 2011 and Outreach Coordinator from 2011 to 2016, becoming a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador.  Mr. Ramakers also serves as the an Assistant Coordinator  for the Solar, Computer, and Online sections with the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers.  Later in life, Mr. Ramakers turned his interest to solar observing and led him where he is today.

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.

Perspective

Observing After the Meeting

Tech Talks

If you have an idea for a 15-30 minute discussion or presentation that you would like to see or would like to give, contact the Charlie Elliott Program Coordinator, Kevin Snedden.

Downloads from the Last Meeting

Our Monthly Meetings and Public Observing Nights for 2018

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All Charlie Elliott Astronomy events are free and open to the public and you don’t have to be a member to attend our meetings or join us on Jon Wood Astronomy Field.  However, we would encourage you to consider a yearly paid membership for less than the cost of a couple of pizzas.  Your membership dues allow us to continue our science outreach programs in area schools and youth organizations, merit badge programs with area Scout Troops, and allow us to maintain the facilities on Jon Wood Astronomy Field.  To become a member, you can fill out our membership form or contact an officer.

March is membership renewal month. If you are renewing your membership, no form is necessary.

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Charlie Elliott Astronomy, serving the Atlanta area and East Middle Georgia, is a chapter of the Atlanta Astronomy Club, a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to promoting the public knowledge of and interest in astronomy.

Donations support our outreach programs, equipment expense, and educational materials.

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