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RASC St. John's Centre Monthly Meeting

November 17, 2011

   Location: C2045, Chemistry/Physics Building, MUN

   Time: 8:00 pm

   Present: 20 (R. Dodge, A. Raffn, D. Caruk, T. Hounsell, R. Babb, S. Thompson,
   A. Clarke, T. Caruk, B. Lewellyn, M. Wilkshire, R. Newman, C. Peterman, B. Tucker,
   G. Dymond, F. Smith, G. Case, B. King, D. Bourgeois, C. Stevenson, D. Grouchy)

  Chris's Introduction

   Meeting was called to order by the President ( Chris Stevenson ) at 8:10 PM.  Chris welcomed those present by a review of the privileges enjoyed by members and outlined membership categories and items received by members (Handbook, SkyNews, E-Journal, E-newsletter.

   Randy Dodge passed around copies of the new RASC membership brochure to fortify Chris's presentation. We have received 150 copies of the new national brochure.

  Observations

   Members were invited to outline any observing reports for the past month.

   Steve Thompson mentioned that his home allowed a close-by observing site and for us to consider a winter visit.

   Garry Dymond related his recent solar observing and a visit from Lewisport Jim.

   Ben has been using a small scope recently.

   Randy passed around a copy of the newly-updated Beginners Observing Guide.

   Chris outlined the various observing certificates offered by the RASC. Questions related to documentation and verification requirements. Members can download the various forms from the members-only area of the RASC.ca website. Recent member observing photos were shown from the Centre's website (Chris, Caruks).

   Steve Thompson's video on the Butterpot Star Party was shown. Members thought it to be an excellent effort. 

   Report on last week's Mt. Scio Observing session, approximately 50 people attended. The centre received a book “Sacred Universe” as a thank-you.

  Speaker

   Chris presented a short talk on using Registax. Using a webcam and a laptop he reviewed the steps used to enhance images and options available with the program. Using previously-captured images of Jupiter he proceeded to produce an enhanced image. The presentation showed how easy it is to enhance easily captured webcam material. The presentation was well received by members.

  Calendars

   Sale of calendars to members.

  Sky Next Month

   Robert handed out sheets outlining the upcoming events for the month. An observing session is being planned for the Admiralty House, members should check the centre's website for a go-no-go decision.

  Coffee & Social

   Members were invited to partake in coffee and goodies. Informal discussions continued amongst members.

   Meeting Adjourned

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  Please send any additions or corrections to:Randy Dodge