NASTRO Committee (2016-17)
The following members were elected to serve on the committee at the AGM.
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Chair
Derek Gardiner I have been keen on astronomy since a young boy, but never had a telescope. "The Sky at night" programme was a great inspiration. My first viewing of Saturn through a 6 inch Newtonian at York University sealed my interest. However I did not get my own scope until a few years ago. Celestron 11" with Hyperstar f2 lens. More information can be found at derekgardiner.co.uk. I've been a member of NASTRO for many years and have made many astronomer friends. I enjoy showing the fascinating objects in the night sky to others, especially my grandchildren. My major interests are astrophotography, spectroscopy and space technology. |
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Secretary
Cathy Underwood I’ve loved looking at the stars since I was a child but until I joined NASTRO I only once had a chance to look through a telescope and that was at Newcastle University’s observatory at Close House when I got to see Halley’s comet in 1986. My next chance to see the sky through a telescope was at NASTRO’s Stargazing Live event at Druridge Bay Country Park in January 2012 and I was hooked. Within a month I’d joined NASTRO, bought an 8” Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and have been looking up ever since. Being a member of NASTRO gives so much opportunity to learn about astronomy, from the brilliant “Introduction to Astronomy” course run by Dr Adrian Janetta, to talks at the twice-monthly meetings and, just as important, talking to the more experienced members of the society who are always keen to share their knowledge. My main interest at the moment is binocular observing and learning to find my way around the night sky without the aid of a go-to mount. |
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Training Officer
Derek Storey As far back as I can remember I have been fascinated by the nature of the universe. I wanted, and still want, answers to questions such as where is the boundary of the cosmos, what lies beyond it and what is everything in the universe made from? From an early age I have also been fascinated by optics and the amazing new worlds that can be discovered in a microscope or telescope. In NASTRO I have found kindred spirits who are also fascinated by these subjects and many more besides. Since the range of interests in NASTRO is very wide I have acquired much new knowledge and many new skills that greatly enhance my enjoyment of practical astronomy. Since joining NASTRO about four years ago my evenings have been transformed, especially in winter. The long dark nights of winter are now something to look forward to rather than dread. They are a great opportunity to observe or photograph the universe and to enjoy the company of friendly and helpful NASTRO fellow members, either outside at the society’s observatory or inside in a warm pub get together! |
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Events Officer
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Members Representative
Shaun Malone I’ve been interested in astronomy for many years but up until recently have never been able to afford a telescope. I have been a member of NASTRO since 2010 and have learned a great deal from the more experience members of the club. My main interest is astrophotography and I have recently built an observatory in my garden where my 11’’ Celestron lives.
I try and attend most of NASTRO’s public events where I enjoy showing people the views of the night sky through my telescope. |
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Treasurer
Heather Jackson |
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Vice Chair
Mark Underwood |
