The Diurnals

Contributed by Pat Larkin

The DIURNALS is a friendly group which meets during the daytime on the third Tuesday of the month February-December.

Objectives

To provide an opportunity for meetings during the DAYTIME.

To disseminate knowledge on various facets of astronomy and related fields, together with Space Exploration, in an informal environment.

To foster enjoyment of the subject matter with kindred spirits, and to encourage newer members who may show an interest in a particular area.

There are no pre-requisites and you don't have to be a mathematics or physics genius! Just come with a desire to learn.  Most months, we have a guest speaker, and talks given cover a wide range of astronomical fields and space exploration. Occasionally, a film is shown followed by discussion if desired.  In addition, Dr. Harry Watts of the ASV presents the popular segment,  'Sky for the Month',  together with a specific area of sky covered in detail. 

 NEXT MEETING:         TUESDAY,  15th MAY, 2012

TOPIC:                          "A LONG ROAD TO TAHITI; WHY THE BRITISH SENT LIEUTENANT JAMES

                                                    COOK TO  UNLOCK THE MYTSTERIES OF THE UNIVERSE"

SPEAKER:         PETER MORGAN - 'CAPTAIN COOK SOCIETY '& 'COOKS COTTAGE'

Peter will focus on the few years leading up to Tahiti and the Transit of Venus (and Mercury) from the 1750's to 1769 for James Cook.  Peter will also describe some of the astronomical tools that Cook used, as well as some of the lesser known tools used on the three final voyages, including underwater telescopes and electric machines.  The Significance of the last three transits of Venus since Cook's time to the significance of the 2012 Transit will be linked.

 (There will also be a surprise to this presentation!)

VENUE:                    THE LODGE,  BURWOOD

TIME:                          10.30 A.M.  - 12.15 p.m.  

Members may like to bring a cut lunch and enjoy the companionship of kindred spirits  following the presentation.   This is also a good time to chat further with the Guest Speaker.

 

Enquiries :  Phone Pat Larkin  03 9889 8283   A.H.  & B.H.

EMAIL:  patricia_larkin@bigpond.com