PRESIDENTS MESSAGE

Welcome to the website of the Thunder Bay Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.  Our astronomy club is in its 25th year and is one of 29 Centres located across Canada from St. John’s, Newfoundland to Victoria, British Columbia.  Currently we have over 50 members of various ages with a wide range of interests and expertise.

Our purpose is to promote the advancement of astronomy and allied sciences through public awareness and education.  We are open to anyone who has an interest in astronomy.  We wish to introduce people to this worthwhile and fulfilling hobby as well as its opportunities for scientific pursuits.

We hold monthly meetings at Confederation College on the second Tuesday of each month excluding July and August, at 7:00 PM.  The general meetings include topics such as what to see in the night skies this month, operation and using binoculars and telescopes, latest news in astronomy, and many other presentations.  General meetings are open to the public.  You are welcome to attend and see what we are all about. Check the TV screens at the main entrances of the Shuniah Building  for room number.

In addition, we conduct many events such as public and member observing sessions, group presentations and displays for a wide variety of organizations.  During the summer, star parties are held at several provincial parks.  At certain times the club is involved with special projects such as telescope making and workshops.

2013 promises to be an exciting year for our centre.  Firstly the opening of the David Thompson Astronomical Observatory will open a new chapter in public viewing and education through the centre and our partner Fort William Historical Park.

Following the opening later in the year, the centre is proud to be hosting the 2013 General Assembly of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. For our members who have never to attended a GA, or those new to the RASC, it`s chance to fully experience the benefits of  their membership. The depth, diversity, talents and enuthisam  that are present in any GA will be a chance to connect with fellow members as well as broaden your knowledge of astronomy.

Finally fall and early winter this year have what is predicted to be the brightest comet in years, if not ever!

Membership is open to all novice and experienced sky gazers.  You do not need to own a telescope or binoculars.  Thunder Bay Centre members have access to and borrowing privileges from a library of astronomy books, magazines and other materials including telescopes.  Membership benefits also include our monthly newsletter “The Northern Sky”, the Canadian astronomy magazine “SkyNews”, the Astronomical Society’s “Journal”, and the indispensable “Observer’s Handbook”.

If you have any questions about our Society please contact us by leaving a message under “Contact” on the left side of the page. You may also try our National site @ www.rasc.ca .

Brendon Roy,

President