Look at the stars instead of the dark
Dust, gas and billions of stars, all held together by gravity is what our galaxy is made of…
As the sun’s warm rays set along the rugged New Zealand countryside, people from all over trudge indoors to get warm and cozy, but not all do venture inside. While we pull our blankets up higher, the Hamilton Astronomical Society pull the covers off their telescopes setting up under the stars for a fascinating screening of the night sky.
Hamilton’s Astronomical Society aims to provide people of the Waikato district with a chance to see the stars from a new perspective, learn more about astronomy and to share their passion with like-minded people. Although Hamilton’s observatory is not set up to be a research center, plenty of learning and fun still happens.
On the first Monday of every month, Hamilton’s Astronomical Society opens its observatory to the members of its club. Having just missed out on their monthly public night and holding a small interest in astronomy myself, I headed along to see what a common night with the stargazing crew looks like.
As the sun began to dip in the sky I made my way to Hamilton’s one and only observatory, high above the city lights alongside the Hamilton Zoo. Upon arrival, I was greeted by member and treasurer of the group, Ian Transom. He gave me a tour of the small but quaint observatory and shared his origin story in how he came to find this astonishing society 10 years ago.
The night progressed on with a fascinating talk from the president about our galaxy, catching my curiosity as I learnt new facts. Each month a new topic is presented to make sure nothing is repeated. This followed by meeting and chatting with other amateur astronomers from the society. It’s a close-knit group as members help other members expand their knowledge and show their explorations they have found over the last month apart.
As the night was almost over I was told the clouds were in the way of the stars so I wasn’t able to have a quick gaze. Although, I was lucky enough to be able to have a look at the incredible 24 inch classical Cassegrain telescope planted in their main dome. Sadly out of commission at the moment, but still a marvel to gaze at. As well as their other 5 telescopes they use out on the lawn on clear nights.
I thoroughly enjoyed spending my evening with the Hamilton Astronomical Society and loved their friendliness and kindness towards someone new. If you’re looking for a fun way to meet new people or just want to expand your horizons, Hamilton’s Astronomical Society is always happy to have new members. Don’t be shy, young heads are always welcome to help keep their group alive.
‘Look at the stars instead of the dark, the brightest stars are the ones that shine for the benefit of others.’
If you want to come along for a night head on up to 183 Brymer Road, Hamilton, New Zealand, next to the Hamilton Zoo. Coming once it’s dark? Please dip your headlights on the road and use parking lights to conserve night vision for the astronomers.
