“The Universe “The Universe “The Universe “The Universe comes to Tullamore”comes to Tullamore”comes to Tullamore”comes to Tullamore”
For your enjoyment and safety: For your enjoyment and safety: For your enjoyment and safety: For your enjoyment and safety: • Please make a note of your nearest emergency exit.
• There is no smoking in any of the indoor areas in Annaharvey, especially around the
stables. Please dispose of your cigare�e bu�s responsibly.
• Bear in mind that expensive and sensi�ve equipment will be on display. If you wish to
look through a telescope or touch a sensi�ve display, please seek the owner’s permission
if in doubt.
• Children must be supervised at all �mes.
When out observing the night time wonders:When out observing the night time wonders:When out observing the night time wonders:When out observing the night time wonders: • The observing area is to the rear of the horse jumping area.
• As it takes your eyes 20-30 minutes to adjust to dark surroundings, and only 1 second of
a bright light to erase that adjustment, please observe a red light-only policy around the
observing group(s).
• If you require the assistance of a white light to find something, please shout out you are
doing so in advance.
• As there will be astro-photographers taking pictures using long dura�on exposures, your
considera�on regarding lights and green laser pointers would be appreciated.
• There is no need for high beams from cars into and out of Annaharvey at night.
MAC accepts no responsibility for:MAC accepts no responsibility for:MAC accepts no responsibility for:MAC accepts no responsibility for: • Vehicles belonging to guests and visitors.
• Lost or stolen property.
• Delay of speakers or visitors to the lectures.
• Injury to persons while on the farm, especially if accessing restricted areas.
• In addi�on MAC would like to reiterate that they are not in anyway responsible for, the
weather, the government, taxes, clouds, the price of petrol or the global economy.
We wish you a safe journey home from our Star Party.
We hope you enjoyed your stay too.
If you have any sugges�ons or comments, please let
us know — even send us your photos!
We hope to see you next year from the 12th - 14th April
SundaySundaySundaySunday April 15thApril 15thApril 15thApril 15th
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Brief history of MAC:Brief history of MAC:Brief history of MAC:Brief history of MAC: Since 1986, Midlands Astronomy Club (originally known as the Tullamore Astronomical
Society - TAS) has been bringing Astronomy and allied subjects to the public in the form of
informal lectures and observing sessions. In 1992, in conjunc�on with the Irish Astronomical
Society (IAS), the first ever Irish Astrofest was held here in Tullamore. Held each Spring, it
complemented the Whirlpool Star Party each Autumn in Birr held by the Shannonside
Astronomy Club (SAC). Irish Astrofest con�nued as a dual-club event un�l 1995 when MAC
was given responsibility to take over on its own.
In 1998, MAC opened its own private observatory on land it purchased 2 miles outside
Tullamore. With this new landmark in its history, the Irish Astrofest moved to Annaharvey,
and with it the name changed to COSMOS. It con�nues every Spring during the weekend
available closest to the Spring Equinox.
COSMOS a�racts both speakers and visitors from all over the country and abroad. The
weekend is not a formal event per say, but is meant to give visitors the opportunity to
explore more about Astronomy in various ways – lectures, exhibits, meet and greet, observing
sessions, and even quizzes that a�empt to keep the weekend fun and interes�ng for all.
Midlands Astronomy Club organises regular outreach events, is an ac�ve member
of the Irish Federa�on of Astronomical Socie�es (IFAS), and will con�nue the tradi�on of
promo�ng Astronomy and allied subjects during 2012 and beyond.
Where and When?Where and When?Where and When?Where and When? MAC meets on the first Tuesday of the month in
the Presbyterian Hall, High Street,
Tullamore from 8pm.
All are welcome to a�end. It also holds
infrequent Observing Nights at its Observing Site
in Clonminch on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each
month, or at a member’s house (weather per-
miBng).
You can see more about the club and its
events on www.midlandsastronomy.com
or contact the club via e-mail at
[email protected]. Mee�ngs are
informal and are aimed at a level to suit all ages.
14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 ---- Mr. Kevin BerwickMr. Kevin BerwickMr. Kevin BerwickMr. Kevin Berwick
“Choosing a telescope”“Choosing a telescope”“Choosing a telescope”“Choosing a telescope”
Like many of us Kevin says he has been interested in the night
sky since he was a child. His first telescope came from
humble beginnings and consisted of two lenses and a painted
cardboard tube. Since then, aperture fever got hold of his
mind (and wallet) he has since bought many other telescopes
and currently has four at home, two of which actually get
used regularly.
Kevin says he has learnt the hard way and has wasted a lot of
cash on unsuitable op�cs over the years. That said, he admits
he has enjoyed many, many happy hours under the night sky,
more than compensa�ng him for his extravagance.
His hope is that aEer a�ending this talk, you will avoid the many
purchasing mistakes that he has made over the years and Kevin
suggest that when it comes to buying telescopes, please “Do as I
say, not as I do!”.
15:45 15:45 15:45 15:45 ---- Raffle and PrizesRaffle and PrizesRaffle and PrizesRaffle and Prizes Yes we realise that there is an global economic down-turn but for
the cost of a few Euro’s you could walk away from this years
COSMOS event with some very nice prizes in our annual raffle.
Tickets can be purchased from any MAC commi�ee member during
the weekend.
16:15 16:15 16:15 16:15 ---- Closing address and farewellClosing address and farewellClosing address and farewellClosing address and farewell All over for another year and just in �me to start planning next
years event. MAC would like to take some �me to thank you all for
a�ending our li�le event and wish you a safe journey home. See
you next year from the 12th - 14th April, clear skies!
Midlands Astronomy Club has created a Facebook
page so that our members and non-members alike
can:
• Keep up-to-date on
future out-reach events. • Be informed of upcoming
lectures.
• Have online access to
the latest astronomy
news as it happens. • See photos of all club
events and activities.
Find us on
www.facebook.com
19:45 19:45 19:45 19:45 ---- Registration and ExhibitsRegistration and ExhibitsRegistration and ExhibitsRegistration and Exhibits Welcome to COSMOS 2012 please take the �me to register at our event and get yourself a
number of handouts including the latest MAC newsle�er and the latest Sky Maps
(www.skymaps.com) for April which can be used over the course of the weekend.
As always the MAC commi�ee will be on hand and willing to help you out if you have any
ques�ons or issues during your stay with us, don’t be shy they won’t bite ☺
20:30 20:30 20:30 20:30 ---- Mr. Laurence Rigney, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Laurence Rigney, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Laurence Rigney, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Laurence Rigney, Midlands Astronomy Club
“Intelligent Life in the Universe”“Intelligent Life in the Universe”“Intelligent Life in the Universe”“Intelligent Life in the Universe”
As is tradi�on for COSMOS, the first speaker of our event is
a MAC member and this year it is the turn of Laurence
Rigney.
Laurence has completed a BSc in Physics and Astronomy at
NUI Galway and is currently working as a teacher of Maths
and Science in Tullamore. When not correc�ng homework
Laurence enjoys reading, squash and soccer in his spare
�me and describes himself as a Singulatarian
(h�p://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singularitarianism), don't worry
we had to look that up too!!!
Laurence says he’s always had an interest in Astronomy and Sci Fi, par�cularly Star Trek, but
not Star Wars! So he’s obviously a man of good taste.
Laurence’s talk is on intelligent life in the universe and says that one of the main reasons is
that he finds it such an interes�ng topic with huge scope for marrying imagina�on and
science as well as ideas about our own future as a species.
Late Late Late Late ---- Observing sessionObserving sessionObserving sessionObserving session Take to the field with your telescopes and binoculars, or just look through the ones there. No
admission charge – just wrap up warm and stay as long as you can handle! All welcome.
Please see our Safety Rules to ensure the event is enjoyed by everyone.
SundaySundaySundaySunday April 15thApril 15thApril 15thApril 15th
FridayFridayFridayFriday April 13thApril 13thApril 13thApril 13th
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Page - 10
11:45 11:45 11:45 11:45 ---- Dr. Apostolos Christou, Armagh ObservatoryDr. Apostolos Christou, Armagh ObservatoryDr. Apostolos Christou, Armagh ObservatoryDr. Apostolos Christou, Armagh Observatory
“Stargazing On Mars”“Stargazing On Mars”“Stargazing On Mars”“Stargazing On Mars”
Dr Apostolos Christou, known to many as "Tolis", is a Research
Astronomer at Armagh Observatory in Northern Ireland
(h�p://www.arm.ac.uk). His early interest in Astronomy, partly
inspired by Carl Sagan's "Cosmos" television series, led him to
pursue an academic career in the field. He holds a first (BSc)
degree in Applied Mathema�cs from the University of Athens,
an MSc in the Mathema�cs of Nonlinear Models from Heriot-
Wa� University & the University of Edinburgh and a PhD from
Queen Mary, University of London in Solar System Dynamics.
In 2001, he took a research post in the Armagh Observatory
where he has been ever since. His main research interests
revolve around the origin and evolu�on of small solar system bodies such as asteroids,
comets and planetary satellites. He is also interested in the techniques of spacecraE
guidance, naviga�on and control, in par�cular those concerning deep space missions.
In his (incredibly shrinking) free �me he enjoys the fun side of observing the night sky. He has
increasingly found himself partnering with amateur groups, direc�ng their enthusiasm
towards projects such as occulta�ons, transits etc. that are both fascina�ng to watch and
scien�fically useful. His other hobbies include reading (a lot of it!) watching films and various
types of physical ac�vity such as playing badminton (badly) and running.
13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 ---- Lunch and outdoor observingLunch and outdoor observingLunch and outdoor observingLunch and outdoor observing Time to take a break and enjoy some of the delicious home-made food on offer at the
Annaharvey Equestrian Farm. AEerwards why not step outside for some fresh air and
par�cipate in some outdoor observing, cloud observing is proving very popular these days ☺
Annaharvey Farm, Tullamore, Co. Offaly www.annaharveyfarm.ie
Equestrian Holidays ���� Luxury B&B
Farm Foods ���� Art Workshops
Equestrian and Outdoor Clothing
SundaySundaySundaySunday April 15thApril 15thApril 15thApril 15th
www.midlandsastronomy.com
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www.midlandsastronomy.com
Page - 4
10:30 10:30 10:30 10:30 ---- Mr. Dermot Gannon, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Dermot Gannon, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Dermot Gannon, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Dermot Gannon, Midlands Astronomy Club
“Buran: The Russian Space Shuttle”“Buran: The Russian Space Shuttle”“Buran: The Russian Space Shuttle”“Buran: The Russian Space Shuttle”
Dermot lives in Stradbally Co. Laois and is a secondary school
teacher of Graphics and Construc�on Studies. Like most of us
Dermot’s main hobbies are of course astronomy, but he is
also interested in flying scale aircraE and Ford RS cars.
Dermot says his biggest interest in astronomy is in the area of
space flight especially the NASA Shu�le programme and
Interna�onal Space Sta�on. This lecture was par�cularly
chosen because of his interest in spaceflight/shu�les and
because of the similari�es of Buran to the NASA shu�le.
Dermot also has a keen interest in all aspects of backyard
astronomy.
Currently, Dermot is interested in researching the ISS and the effects of living on it for
extended periods of �me. As a Construc�on Studies teacher you can imagine he can knock
together a few bits of wood which is exactly what he is doing where he is in the last stages of
building a homemade domed observatory.
To the right we can see a recent image of the
Sun taken in H-alpha light by long !me MAC
member Michael O'Connell.
Taken with a Coronado Solarmax 90 filter and
DMK21 camera, the image is made up of 21
smaller images s!tched together to form an
overall mosaic of the Sun. Each single piece
of the mosaic is processed from a 1,000
frame video file captured by the DMK21
camera. In all, it took a whopping 6GB of
data to create this image. The barely visible
blue dot in the top le3 of the image is Earth
shown to scale for compara!ve purposes.
h4p://www.astroshot.com/
April 2012 will again be a busy month for amateur
and professional astronomers, educators and
astronomy enthusiasts as Global Astronomy Month
(GAM) returns for its second edi�on. The annual
event, organized by Astronomers Without Borders,
celebrates the Universe in the spirit of the
Interna�onal Year of Astronomy 2009 cornerstone
project "100 Hours of Astronomy."
This is the third edi�on of GAM, aEer its launch last year, when Astronomers
Without Borders (AWB) coordinated seven global events dedicated to remote
observing, figh�ng light pollu�on, world peace, observa�ons of the sky and
cultural manifesta�ons, as well as encouraging the organiza�on of local events.
"There's something for everyone", says Mike Simmons, President of
Astronomers Without Borders. “IYA2009 showed the way to involving more
people than ever," and GAM is riding that
wave of excitement in the discovery of our
Universe."
Join the celebra�on in April 2012 as Global
Astronomy Month brings together
thousands of passionate individuals and
hundreds of organiza�ons worldwide to
share their enthusiasm in innova�ve new
ways, connec�ng people through a great
sense of sharing the Universe! It's a month
of celebra�ng Astronomers Without Borders'
mo�o - One People, One Sky!
Deirdre Kelleghan, AWB National Coordinator for Ireland, is ready for
Global Astronomy Month 2012. Are you? - Photo credit, Bernard Kelleghan G
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Librarian – Adrian Waters
Facebook Rep – Jason Fallon/Shane Fallon
Members – Laurence Rigney, Darren Dempsey
and Michael O’Connell
Chairperson – Declan Molloy
Vice Chairperson – John Lally
Secretary – Seanie Morris
Treasurer – Paul Fitzgerald
MAC Committee 2012MAC Committee 2012MAC Committee 2012MAC Committee 2012
SaturdaySaturdaySaturdaySaturday April 14thApril 14thApril 14thApril 14th
SaturdaySaturdaySaturdaySaturday April 14thApril 14thApril 14thApril 14th
www.midlandsastronomy.com
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www.midlandsastronomy.com
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16:30 16:30 16:30 16:30 ---- Table QuizTable QuizTable QuizTable Quiz Think you’re smart enough to take part in our FREE Table Quiz this year? Then make sure
you have indicated that on the registra�on form at our check-in desk! You could win a
much sought aEer and highly valued, judging by the amount of chea�ng that goes on,
COSMOS ’12 trophy. The quiz will take place in the lecture room and will be hosted by our
own Seanie Morris and will be made up of six rounds of Astronomy and General Knowledge
ques�ons.
18:00 18:00 18:00 18:00 ---- Finish followed by IFAS Assembly MeetingFinish followed by IFAS Assembly MeetingFinish followed by IFAS Assembly MeetingFinish followed by IFAS Assembly Meeting Immediately following the table quiz, the IFAS General Mee�ng will take place for IFAS Reps in
the adjoining conservatory.
20:00 20:00 20:00 20:00 ---- COSMOS DinnerCOSMOS DinnerCOSMOS DinnerCOSMOS Dinner Details for the dinner can be obtained at the registra�on desk. Wine may be purchased from
Recep�on for dinner. Please enquire upon registra�on for full details. AEer dinner there is the
chance to observe the Astronomical Wonders from Annaharvey, or stay inside and chat with
friends, old and new.
Late Late Late Late ---- Observing sessionObserving sessionObserving sessionObserving session Take to the field with your telescopes and binoculars, or just look through the ones there. No
admission charge – just wrap up warm and stay as long as you can handle! All welcome.
Please see our Safety Rules to ensure the event is enjoyed by everyone.
09:45 09:45 09:45 09:45 ---- Registration and ExhibitsRegistration and ExhibitsRegistration and ExhibitsRegistration and Exhibits Welcome to COSMOS 2012 please take the �me to register at our event and get yourself a
number of handouts including the latest MAC newsle�er and the latest Sky Maps
(www.skymaps.com) for April which can be used over the course of the weekend.
As always the MAC commi�ee will be on hand and willing to help you out if you have any
ques�ons or issues during your stay with us, don’t be shy they won’t bite ☺
10:15 10:15 10:15 10:15 ---- Open address by Mr. Declan Molloy, Midlands Astronomy Open address by Mr. Declan Molloy, Midlands Astronomy Open address by Mr. Declan Molloy, Midlands Astronomy Open address by Mr. Declan Molloy, Midlands Astronomy Club ChairmanClub ChairmanClub ChairmanClub Chairman Our Chairperson Declan Molloy will give a short opening address and cover any
administra�ve items to ensure your stay with us is both safe and enjoyable.
10:30 10:30 10:30 10:30 ---- Mr. Girvan McKay, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Girvan McKay, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Girvan McKay, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Girvan McKay, Midlands Astronomy Club
“Return To Vostok”“Return To Vostok”“Return To Vostok”“Return To Vostok” Girvan says he hasn’t recently been very active in
observational astronomy, having been taken up with other
things (writing, publishing, etc.). However, he has long
enjoyed astronomy, and in particular he has had an interest in
exobiology and the search for life in the universe. Like many
of us Girvan says “I like a warm bed too much to be out
observing on frosty nights”.
As for hobbies and other pursuits, Girvan’s main interests are
in linguistics which in the past he has tried to link to
astronomy.
Filler Check out Ireland’s largest community of Amateur Astronomers online, with forums,
observing aids, monthly publica�ons, compe��ons, and more.
www.irishastonomy.org
SaturdaySaturdaySaturdaySaturday April 14thApril 14thApril 14thApril 14th
SaturdaySaturdaySaturdaySaturday April 14thApril 14thApril 14thApril 14th
www.midlandsastronomy.com
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11:45 11:45 11:45 11:45 ---- Mr. Thierry LegaultMr. Thierry LegaultMr. Thierry LegaultMr. Thierry Legault
“In pursuit of space ships”“In pursuit of space ships”“In pursuit of space ships”“In pursuit of space ships”
Thierry is an engineer by trade and lives in the suburbs of
Paris in a site that is very polluted by city lights but from here
he can take images of the Sun, the Moon, planets and nebulas
with narrow band filters but for deep sky imaging (galaxies,
comets, nebulas...) he, like many of use, has to travel to
darker skies.
Thierry became interested in digital astrophotography in the
beginning of 90's with high resolu�on lunar and planetary
imaging. This work lead to him wri�ng two books “The New
Atlas of the Moon” with Serge Brunier and
"Astrophotographie". Thierry has also wri�en numerous
ar�cles and lectures about imaging in Europe and USA (Sky
and Telescope, Ciel et Espace, Astronomie Magazine, Chasseur d'Images to name a few).
Thierry has a number of bragging rights, the asteroid number 19458 has been officially
named Legault at the Interna�onal Astronomical Union. His photographs, especially of space
shu�le and space sta�on, have been published in newspapers and magazines and have been
shown on TV worldwide and in May 2009, he was able to a�end the launch of the space
shu�le Atlan�s for the STS-125 mission (the last Hubble servicing mission) from the press site
of the Kennedy Space Centre and later visit the hall where the shu�le Discovery was being
prepared for a future flight.
Thierry’s current focus is on the ISS and satellite imaging and he employs two methods to do
this: passages in front of the Sun (or the Moon) and twilight video captures with a dedicated
automa�c tracking telescope. This chase of satellites, in addi�on with total eclipses, leads him
to travel across Europe and even some�mes Africa, America and Oceania.
13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 ---- Lunch and outdoor observingLunch and outdoor observingLunch and outdoor observingLunch and outdoor observing Time to take a break and enjoy some of the delicious home-made food on offer at the
Annaharvey Equestrian Farm. AEerwards why not step outside for some fresh air and
par�cipate in some outdoor observing, cloud observing is proving very popular these days ☺
14:45 14:45 14:45 14:45 ---- Mr. Eamonn Ansbro, Breffni StarwalkersMr. Eamonn Ansbro, Breffni StarwalkersMr. Eamonn Ansbro, Breffni StarwalkersMr. Eamonn Ansbro, Breffni Starwalkers
“Surveying for Edgeworth Kuiper Belt Objects from “Surveying for Edgeworth Kuiper Belt Objects from “Surveying for Edgeworth Kuiper Belt Objects from “Surveying for Edgeworth Kuiper Belt Objects from Ireland”Ireland”Ireland”Ireland”
Eamonn has been involved in astronomy since the age of 8
and progressed to making his own mirrors from 4 to 18 inches
diameter and later telescopes. Eventually Eamonn set up a
home-built 18-inch telescope and observatory in Dublin
where he led the “Gang of Ten” observing team, and made a
number of discoveries. His most important discoveries so far
are co-discovery of a hydrogen envelope around the rings of
Saturn published in Nature; Lunar moonquakes aler�ng NASA
and a nova which catapulted him onto the RTE main news.
From his Dublin observatory, Eamonn has also carried out
ground-breaking work in the area of variable stars. He
coordinated the work of variable star observing groups
around the world, and served as Co-Editor of the Amateur Variable Star Directory of the
Interna�onal Union of Amateur Astronomers and presented his findings to the IAU. As Vice
President of the Interna�onal Union of Amateur Astronomers he was able to bring the IUAA
General Assembly to Dublin.
Eamonn now lives up in the hills in a remote corner of County Roscommon. Being off the
beaten track with no television, for entertainment he has resorted to studying for a Masters
degree in Astronomy, discovering a change in albedo in the belts of Jupiter since one of the
last space probes was there. He is currently wri�ng up his PhD thesis at the Planetary Space
Science Research Ins�tute at Open University, having designed and built a robo�c 36-inch
telescope and carried out a successful 4-year outer solar system high eclip�c survey. He is a
Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and has wri�en and published over 50 ar�cles and
papers in the field of astronomy. Always maintaining his commitment to amateur
astronomers as well as the professional astronomy community, Eamonn is a founding
member of a new astronomical club in the Northwest, the Breffni Starwalkers in Co. Leitrim.
16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 ---- BreakBreakBreakBreak Time to take a break and enjoy some of the delicious home-made food on offer at the
Annaharvey Equestrian Farm.
SaturdaySaturdaySaturdaySaturday April 14thApril 14thApril 14thApril 14th
SaturdaySaturdaySaturdaySaturday April 14thApril 14thApril 14thApril 14th
www.midlandsastronomy.com
Page - 7
www.midlandsastronomy.com
Page - 6
11:45 11:45 11:45 11:45 ---- Mr. Thierry LegaultMr. Thierry LegaultMr. Thierry LegaultMr. Thierry Legault
“In pursuit of space ships”“In pursuit of space ships”“In pursuit of space ships”“In pursuit of space ships”
Thierry is an engineer by trade and lives in the suburbs of
Paris in a site that is very polluted by city lights but from here
he can take images of the Sun, the Moon, planets and nebulas
with narrow band filters but for deep sky imaging (galaxies,
comets, nebulas...) he, like many of use, has to travel to
darker skies.
Thierry became interested in digital astrophotography in the
beginning of 90's with high resolu�on lunar and planetary
imaging. This work lead to him wri�ng two books “The New
Atlas of the Moon” with Serge Brunier and
"Astrophotographie". Thierry has also wri�en numerous
ar�cles and lectures about imaging in Europe and USA (Sky
and Telescope, Ciel et Espace, Astronomie Magazine, Chasseur d'Images to name a few).
Thierry has a number of bragging rights, the asteroid number 19458 has been officially
named Legault at the Interna�onal Astronomical Union. His photographs, especially of space
shu�le and space sta�on, have been published in newspapers and magazines and have been
shown on TV worldwide and in May 2009, he was able to a�end the launch of the space
shu�le Atlan�s for the STS-125 mission (the last Hubble servicing mission) from the press site
of the Kennedy Space Centre and later visit the hall where the shu�le Discovery was being
prepared for a future flight.
Thierry’s current focus is on the ISS and satellite imaging and he employs two methods to do
this: passages in front of the Sun (or the Moon) and twilight video captures with a dedicated
automa�c tracking telescope. This chase of satellites, in addi�on with total eclipses, leads him
to travel across Europe and even some�mes Africa, America and Oceania.
13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 ---- Lunch and outdoor observingLunch and outdoor observingLunch and outdoor observingLunch and outdoor observing Time to take a break and enjoy some of the delicious home-made food on offer at the
Annaharvey Equestrian Farm. AEerwards why not step outside for some fresh air and
par�cipate in some outdoor observing, cloud observing is proving very popular these days ☺
14:45 14:45 14:45 14:45 ---- Mr. Eamonn Ansbro, Breffni StarwalkersMr. Eamonn Ansbro, Breffni StarwalkersMr. Eamonn Ansbro, Breffni StarwalkersMr. Eamonn Ansbro, Breffni Starwalkers
“Surveying for Edgeworth Kuiper Belt Objects from “Surveying for Edgeworth Kuiper Belt Objects from “Surveying for Edgeworth Kuiper Belt Objects from “Surveying for Edgeworth Kuiper Belt Objects from Ireland”Ireland”Ireland”Ireland”
Eamonn has been involved in astronomy since the age of 8
and progressed to making his own mirrors from 4 to 18 inches
diameter and later telescopes. Eventually Eamonn set up a
home-built 18-inch telescope and observatory in Dublin
where he led the “Gang of Ten” observing team, and made a
number of discoveries. His most important discoveries so far
are co-discovery of a hydrogen envelope around the rings of
Saturn published in Nature; Lunar moonquakes aler�ng NASA
and a nova which catapulted him onto the RTE main news.
From his Dublin observatory, Eamonn has also carried out
ground-breaking work in the area of variable stars. He
coordinated the work of variable star observing groups
around the world, and served as Co-Editor of the Amateur Variable Star Directory of the
Interna�onal Union of Amateur Astronomers and presented his findings to the IAU. As Vice
President of the Interna�onal Union of Amateur Astronomers he was able to bring the IUAA
General Assembly to Dublin.
Eamonn now lives up in the hills in a remote corner of County Roscommon. Being off the
beaten track with no television, for entertainment he has resorted to studying for a Masters
degree in Astronomy, discovering a change in albedo in the belts of Jupiter since one of the
last space probes was there. He is currently wri�ng up his PhD thesis at the Planetary Space
Science Research Ins�tute at Open University, having designed and built a robo�c 36-inch
telescope and carried out a successful 4-year outer solar system high eclip�c survey. He is a
Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and has wri�en and published over 50 ar�cles and
papers in the field of astronomy. Always maintaining his commitment to amateur
astronomers as well as the professional astronomy community, Eamonn is a founding
member of a new astronomical club in the Northwest, the Breffni Starwalkers in Co. Leitrim.
16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 ---- BreakBreakBreakBreak Time to take a break and enjoy some of the delicious home-made food on offer at the
Annaharvey Equestrian Farm.
SaturdaySaturdaySaturdaySaturday April 14thApril 14thApril 14thApril 14th
SaturdaySaturdaySaturdaySaturday April 14thApril 14thApril 14thApril 14th
www.midlandsastronomy.com
Page - 5
www.midlandsastronomy.com
Page - 8
16:30 16:30 16:30 16:30 ---- Table QuizTable QuizTable QuizTable Quiz Think you’re smart enough to take part in our FREE Table Quiz this year? Then make sure
you have indicated that on the registra�on form at our check-in desk! You could win a
much sought aEer and highly valued, judging by the amount of chea�ng that goes on,
COSMOS ’12 trophy. The quiz will take place in the lecture room and will be hosted by our
own Seanie Morris and will be made up of six rounds of Astronomy and General Knowledge
ques�ons.
18:00 18:00 18:00 18:00 ---- Finish followed by IFAS Assembly MeetingFinish followed by IFAS Assembly MeetingFinish followed by IFAS Assembly MeetingFinish followed by IFAS Assembly Meeting Immediately following the table quiz, the IFAS General Mee�ng will take place for IFAS Reps in
the adjoining conservatory.
20:00 20:00 20:00 20:00 ---- COSMOS DinnerCOSMOS DinnerCOSMOS DinnerCOSMOS Dinner Details for the dinner can be obtained at the registra�on desk. Wine may be purchased from
Recep�on for dinner. Please enquire upon registra�on for full details. AEer dinner there is the
chance to observe the Astronomical Wonders from Annaharvey, or stay inside and chat with
friends, old and new.
Late Late Late Late ---- Observing sessionObserving sessionObserving sessionObserving session Take to the field with your telescopes and binoculars, or just look through the ones there. No
admission charge – just wrap up warm and stay as long as you can handle! All welcome.
Please see our Safety Rules to ensure the event is enjoyed by everyone.
09:45 09:45 09:45 09:45 ---- Registration and ExhibitsRegistration and ExhibitsRegistration and ExhibitsRegistration and Exhibits Welcome to COSMOS 2012 please take the �me to register at our event and get yourself a
number of handouts including the latest MAC newsle�er and the latest Sky Maps
(www.skymaps.com) for April which can be used over the course of the weekend.
As always the MAC commi�ee will be on hand and willing to help you out if you have any
ques�ons or issues during your stay with us, don’t be shy they won’t bite ☺
10:15 10:15 10:15 10:15 ---- Open address by Mr. Declan Molloy, Midlands Astronomy Open address by Mr. Declan Molloy, Midlands Astronomy Open address by Mr. Declan Molloy, Midlands Astronomy Open address by Mr. Declan Molloy, Midlands Astronomy Club ChairmanClub ChairmanClub ChairmanClub Chairman Our Chairperson Declan Molloy will give a short opening address and cover any
administra�ve items to ensure your stay with us is both safe and enjoyable.
10:30 10:30 10:30 10:30 ---- Mr. Girvan McKay, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Girvan McKay, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Girvan McKay, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Girvan McKay, Midlands Astronomy Club
“Return To Vostok”“Return To Vostok”“Return To Vostok”“Return To Vostok” Girvan says he hasn’t recently been very active in
observational astronomy, having been taken up with other
things (writing, publishing, etc.). However, he has long
enjoyed astronomy, and in particular he has had an interest in
exobiology and the search for life in the universe. Like many
of us Girvan says “I like a warm bed too much to be out
observing on frosty nights”.
As for hobbies and other pursuits, Girvan’s main interests are
in linguistics which in the past he has tried to link to
astronomy.
Filler Check out Ireland’s largest community of Amateur Astronomers online, with forums,
observing aids, monthly publica�ons, compe��ons, and more.
www.irishastonomy.org
SundaySundaySundaySunday April 15thApril 15thApril 15thApril 15th
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10:30 10:30 10:30 10:30 ---- Mr. Dermot Gannon, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Dermot Gannon, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Dermot Gannon, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Dermot Gannon, Midlands Astronomy Club
“Buran: The Russian Space Shuttle”“Buran: The Russian Space Shuttle”“Buran: The Russian Space Shuttle”“Buran: The Russian Space Shuttle”
Dermot lives in Stradbally Co. Laois and is a secondary school
teacher of Graphics and Construc�on Studies. Like most of us
Dermot’s main hobbies are of course astronomy, but he is
also interested in flying scale aircraE and Ford RS cars.
Dermot says his biggest interest in astronomy is in the area of
space flight especially the NASA Shu�le programme and
Interna�onal Space Sta�on. This lecture was par�cularly
chosen because of his interest in spaceflight/shu�les and
because of the similari�es of Buran to the NASA shu�le.
Dermot also has a keen interest in all aspects of backyard
astronomy.
Currently, Dermot is interested in researching the ISS and the effects of living on it for
extended periods of �me. As a Construc�on Studies teacher you can imagine he can knock
together a few bits of wood which is exactly what he is doing where he is in the last stages of
building a homemade domed observatory.
To the right we can see a recent image of the
Sun taken in H-alpha light by long !me MAC
member Michael O'Connell.
Taken with a Coronado Solarmax 90 filter and
DMK21 camera, the image is made up of 21
smaller images s!tched together to form an
overall mosaic of the Sun. Each single piece
of the mosaic is processed from a 1,000
frame video file captured by the DMK21
camera. In all, it took a whopping 6GB of
data to create this image. The barely visible
blue dot in the top le3 of the image is Earth
shown to scale for compara!ve purposes.
h4p://www.astroshot.com/
April 2012 will again be a busy month for amateur
and professional astronomers, educators and
astronomy enthusiasts as Global Astronomy Month
(GAM) returns for its second edi�on. The annual
event, organized by Astronomers Without Borders,
celebrates the Universe in the spirit of the
Interna�onal Year of Astronomy 2009 cornerstone
project "100 Hours of Astronomy."
This is the third edi�on of GAM, aEer its launch last year, when Astronomers
Without Borders (AWB) coordinated seven global events dedicated to remote
observing, figh�ng light pollu�on, world peace, observa�ons of the sky and
cultural manifesta�ons, as well as encouraging the organiza�on of local events.
"There's something for everyone", says Mike Simmons, President of
Astronomers Without Borders. “IYA2009 showed the way to involving more
people than ever," and GAM is riding that
wave of excitement in the discovery of our
Universe."
Join the celebra�on in April 2012 as Global
Astronomy Month brings together
thousands of passionate individuals and
hundreds of organiza�ons worldwide to
share their enthusiasm in innova�ve new
ways, connec�ng people through a great
sense of sharing the Universe! It's a month
of celebra�ng Astronomers Without Borders'
mo�o - One People, One Sky!
Deirdre Kelleghan, AWB National Coordinator for Ireland, is ready for
Global Astronomy Month 2012. Are you? - Photo credit, Bernard Kelleghan G
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Librarian – Adrian Waters
Facebook Rep – Jason Fallon/Shane Fallon
Members – Laurence Rigney, Darren Dempsey
and Michael O’Connell
Chairperson – Declan Molloy
Vice Chairperson – John Lally
Secretary – Seanie Morris
Treasurer – Paul Fitzgerald
MAC Committee 2012MAC Committee 2012MAC Committee 2012MAC Committee 2012
19:45 19:45 19:45 19:45 ---- Registration and ExhibitsRegistration and ExhibitsRegistration and ExhibitsRegistration and Exhibits Welcome to COSMOS 2012 please take the �me to register at our event and get yourself a
number of handouts including the latest MAC newsle�er and the latest Sky Maps
(www.skymaps.com) for April which can be used over the course of the weekend.
As always the MAC commi�ee will be on hand and willing to help you out if you have any
ques�ons or issues during your stay with us, don’t be shy they won’t bite ☺
20:30 20:30 20:30 20:30 ---- Mr. Laurence Rigney, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Laurence Rigney, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Laurence Rigney, Midlands Astronomy ClubMr. Laurence Rigney, Midlands Astronomy Club
“Intelligent Life in the Universe”“Intelligent Life in the Universe”“Intelligent Life in the Universe”“Intelligent Life in the Universe”
As is tradi�on for COSMOS, the first speaker of our event is
a MAC member and this year it is the turn of Laurence
Rigney.
Laurence has completed a BSc in Physics and Astronomy at
NUI Galway and is currently working as a teacher of Maths
and Science in Tullamore. When not correc�ng homework
Laurence enjoys reading, squash and soccer in his spare
�me and describes himself as a Singulatarian
(h�p://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singularitarianism), don't worry
we had to look that up too!!!
Laurence says he’s always had an interest in Astronomy and Sci Fi, par�cularly Star Trek, but
not Star Wars! So he’s obviously a man of good taste.
Laurence’s talk is on intelligent life in the universe and says that one of the main reasons is
that he finds it such an interes�ng topic with huge scope for marrying imagina�on and
science as well as ideas about our own future as a species.
Late Late Late Late ---- Observing sessionObserving sessionObserving sessionObserving session Take to the field with your telescopes and binoculars, or just look through the ones there. No
admission charge – just wrap up warm and stay as long as you can handle! All welcome.
Please see our Safety Rules to ensure the event is enjoyed by everyone.
SundaySundaySundaySunday April 15thApril 15thApril 15thApril 15th
FridayFridayFridayFriday April 13thApril 13thApril 13thApril 13th
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11:45 11:45 11:45 11:45 ---- Dr. Apostolos Christou, Armagh ObservatoryDr. Apostolos Christou, Armagh ObservatoryDr. Apostolos Christou, Armagh ObservatoryDr. Apostolos Christou, Armagh Observatory
“Stargazing On Mars”“Stargazing On Mars”“Stargazing On Mars”“Stargazing On Mars”
Dr Apostolos Christou, known to many as "Tolis", is a Research
Astronomer at Armagh Observatory in Northern Ireland
(h�p://www.arm.ac.uk). His early interest in Astronomy, partly
inspired by Carl Sagan's "Cosmos" television series, led him to
pursue an academic career in the field. He holds a first (BSc)
degree in Applied Mathema�cs from the University of Athens,
an MSc in the Mathema�cs of Nonlinear Models from Heriot-
Wa� University & the University of Edinburgh and a PhD from
Queen Mary, University of London in Solar System Dynamics.
In 2001, he took a research post in the Armagh Observatory
where he has been ever since. His main research interests
revolve around the origin and evolu�on of small solar system bodies such as asteroids,
comets and planetary satellites. He is also interested in the techniques of spacecraE
guidance, naviga�on and control, in par�cular those concerning deep space missions.
In his (incredibly shrinking) free �me he enjoys the fun side of observing the night sky. He has
increasingly found himself partnering with amateur groups, direc�ng their enthusiasm
towards projects such as occulta�ons, transits etc. that are both fascina�ng to watch and
scien�fically useful. His other hobbies include reading (a lot of it!) watching films and various
types of physical ac�vity such as playing badminton (badly) and running.
13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 ---- Lunch and outdoor observingLunch and outdoor observingLunch and outdoor observingLunch and outdoor observing Time to take a break and enjoy some of the delicious home-made food on offer at the
Annaharvey Equestrian Farm. AEerwards why not step outside for some fresh air and
par�cipate in some outdoor observing, cloud observing is proving very popular these days ☺
Annaharvey Farm, Tullamore, Co. Offaly www.annaharveyfarm.ie
Equestrian Holidays ���� Luxury B&B
Farm Foods ���� Art Workshops
Equestrian and Outdoor Clothing
SundaySundaySundaySunday April 15thApril 15thApril 15thApril 15th
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Brief history of MAC:Brief history of MAC:Brief history of MAC:Brief history of MAC: Since 1986, Midlands Astronomy Club (originally known as the Tullamore Astronomical
Society - TAS) has been bringing Astronomy and allied subjects to the public in the form of
informal lectures and observing sessions. In 1992, in conjunc�on with the Irish Astronomical
Society (IAS), the first ever Irish Astrofest was held here in Tullamore. Held each Spring, it
complemented the Whirlpool Star Party each Autumn in Birr held by the Shannonside
Astronomy Club (SAC). Irish Astrofest con�nued as a dual-club event un�l 1995 when MAC
was given responsibility to take over on its own.
In 1998, MAC opened its own private observatory on land it purchased 2 miles outside
Tullamore. With this new landmark in its history, the Irish Astrofest moved to Annaharvey,
and with it the name changed to COSMOS. It con�nues every Spring during the weekend
available closest to the Spring Equinox.
COSMOS a�racts both speakers and visitors from all over the country and abroad. The
weekend is not a formal event per say, but is meant to give visitors the opportunity to
explore more about Astronomy in various ways – lectures, exhibits, meet and greet, observing
sessions, and even quizzes that a�empt to keep the weekend fun and interes�ng for all.
Midlands Astronomy Club organises regular outreach events, is an ac�ve member
of the Irish Federa�on of Astronomical Socie�es (IFAS), and will con�nue the tradi�on of
promo�ng Astronomy and allied subjects during 2012 and beyond.
Where and When?Where and When?Where and When?Where and When? MAC meets on the first Tuesday of the month in
the Presbyterian Hall, High Street,
Tullamore from 8pm.
All are welcome to a�end. It also holds
infrequent Observing Nights at its Observing Site
in Clonminch on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each
month, or at a member’s house (weather per-
miBng).
You can see more about the club and its
events on www.midlandsastronomy.com
or contact the club via e-mail at
[email protected]. Mee�ngs are
informal and are aimed at a level to suit all ages.
14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 ---- Mr. Kevin BerwickMr. Kevin BerwickMr. Kevin BerwickMr. Kevin Berwick
“Choosing a telescope”“Choosing a telescope”“Choosing a telescope”“Choosing a telescope”
Like many of us Kevin says he has been interested in the night
sky since he was a child. His first telescope came from
humble beginnings and consisted of two lenses and a painted
cardboard tube. Since then, aperture fever got hold of his
mind (and wallet) he has since bought many other telescopes
and currently has four at home, two of which actually get
used regularly.
Kevin says he has learnt the hard way and has wasted a lot of
cash on unsuitable op�cs over the years. That said, he admits
he has enjoyed many, many happy hours under the night sky,
more than compensa�ng him for his extravagance.
His hope is that aEer a�ending this talk, you will avoid the many
purchasing mistakes that he has made over the years and Kevin
suggest that when it comes to buying telescopes, please “Do as I
say, not as I do!”.
15:45 15:45 15:45 15:45 ---- Raffle and PrizesRaffle and PrizesRaffle and PrizesRaffle and Prizes Yes we realise that there is an global economic down-turn but for
the cost of a few Euro’s you could walk away from this years
COSMOS event with some very nice prizes in our annual raffle.
Tickets can be purchased from any MAC commi�ee member during
the weekend.
16:15 16:15 16:15 16:15 ---- Closing address and farewellClosing address and farewellClosing address and farewellClosing address and farewell All over for another year and just in �me to start planning next
years event. MAC would like to take some �me to thank you all for
a�ending our li�le event and wish you a safe journey home. See
you next year from the 12th - 14th April, clear skies!
Midlands Astronomy Club has created a Facebook
page so that our members and non-members alike
can:
• Keep up-to-date on
future out-reach events. • Be informed of upcoming
lectures.
• Have online access to
the latest astronomy
news as it happens. • See photos of all club
events and activities.
Find us on
www.facebook.com
“The Universe “The Universe “The Universe “The Universe comes to Tullamore”comes to Tullamore”comes to Tullamore”comes to Tullamore”
For your enjoyment and safety: For your enjoyment and safety: For your enjoyment and safety: For your enjoyment and safety: • Please make a note of your nearest emergency exit.
• There is no smoking in any of the indoor areas in Annaharvey, especially around the
stables. Please dispose of your cigare�e bu�s responsibly.
• Bear in mind that expensive and sensi�ve equipment will be on display. If you wish to
look through a telescope or touch a sensi�ve display, please seek the owner’s permission
if in doubt.
• Children must be supervised at all �mes.
When out observing the night time wonders:When out observing the night time wonders:When out observing the night time wonders:When out observing the night time wonders: • The observing area is to the rear of the horse jumping area.
• As it takes your eyes 20-30 minutes to adjust to dark surroundings, and only 1 second of
a bright light to erase that adjustment, please observe a red light-only policy around the
observing group(s).
• If you require the assistance of a white light to find something, please shout out you are
doing so in advance.
• As there will be astro-photographers taking pictures using long dura�on exposures, your
considera�on regarding lights and green laser pointers would be appreciated.
• There is no need for high beams from cars into and out of Annaharvey at night.
MAC accepts no responsibility for:MAC accepts no responsibility for:MAC accepts no responsibility for:MAC accepts no responsibility for: • Vehicles belonging to guests and visitors.
• Lost or stolen property.
• Delay of speakers or visitors to the lectures.
• Injury to persons while on the farm, especially if accessing restricted areas.
• In addi�on MAC would like to reiterate that they are not in anyway responsible for, the
weather, the government, taxes, clouds, the price of petrol or the global economy.
We wish you a safe journey home from our Star Party.
We hope you enjoyed your stay too.
If you have any sugges�ons or comments, please let
us know — even send us your photos!
We hope to see you next year from the 12th - 14th April
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