New Astronomers Group

Other NAG pages: How to join : Meeting Calender : FAQ
NAG Home Page: http://www.asvnag.info/
Contact: nag@asv.org.au

 

What is the New Astronomers' Group (NAG)

The New Astronomers' Group is an introductory course to: 1) Amateur Astronomy 2) Science of Astronomy 3) History of Astronomy.

 

1) Amateur Astronomy.

How to start observing the night sky is an often asked question. While dark skies are ideal they are not necessary when starting out. The New Astronomers' Group has a Novice observing program to help you get started. By learning the 36 brightest stars large chunks of the night sky will begin to look familiar as you start piecing a few Constellations together. Your backyard is certainly the most convenient and recommended place to start. Find a place away from the glare of your local streetlight. You may find yourself moving around the backyard to avoid obstructions like trees. The Novice observing programme includes monthly tips like: using a planisphere, role of a red torch, binocular basics, reading horizion charts, etc... Over the course of the year you can watch the constellations change with the seasons.

When the weather permits a night sky tour (backyard) is conducted at the NAG meeting. Sometimes there is a loan telescope available, or we can open up the observatory to look through the 20" club scope. Often members need assistance with using their first telescope. You are welcome to bring them along for advice and/or assistance (clear night is best).

 

2) The Science of Astronomy.

My job as Section Director is to introduce you to the major areas of Astronomy (see meeting calendar). Your job is to discover where your (Astronomical) interests lie. By the end of your 12 months with NAG you will hopefully have been directed you to one (or more) sections of the ASV, and you would have met some other ASV members along the way.

With 800+ members almost 20 sections, at first the ASV can be a daunting place to find your way around and connect with people. The New Astronomers' Group is one way to make those first steps a little easier.

 

 3) The History of Astronomy

Astronomy is arguably the oldest Science. Much of the Astronomy news we see/hear is published under the banner of exciting new discoveries using the latest technology. Yes there is truth in that, but it is also true the discoveries of today are based on hundreds, even thousands of years of historical discoveries. Only by standing on the shoulders of the giants who came before us can our technology see so far ahead. For this reason some history is woven into the text of the NAG course notes to add perspective and context to what we learn. Hopefully this helps us see where Astronomy is going.

 

Who is NAG suitable for?

The New Astronomers' Group was initially created as an outreach program of the ASV for new members. However we also get existing members wanting to do more, get actively involved in a group, or just unsure where to go next in the ASV. Unlike an "on-line" Astronomy course the monthly NAG meetings are an opportunity to meet and connect with other members (much like yourself) starting out in Astronomy. Prior knowledge is not required. An interest to learn more is essential. Content is aimed at adults of all ages. Those under 16 years will find the Junior section of the ASV more suited to thier needs.

 

Where and When?

Meetings are held at the ASV Lodge in Burwood (eastern suburbs of Melbourne) one night per month 7:30 to 10:30 pm. Exact location and dates will be given out once your ASV membership details have been confirmed. 

Please don't just turn up to a NAG meeting uninvited. The 12 month course includes a NAG folder, course notes of 15-20 pages each month, starter CD, etc... Customise your own folder by adding notes, news & magazine clippings, and observations and your folder will be bursting by the end of you year with NAG. All of this needs to be purchased and prepared for the members at each Intake. We use ASV facilities and have guest speakers from the ASV itself. So the process of joining NAG needs to be a little different from the other sections.

Thankyou... Ken,
Section Director of New Astronomers' Group
2nd Vice President of the Astronomical Society of Vic