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welcome
For over 30 years, Midlands Astronomy Club, Inc. (MAC) has existed to further the general knowledge of Astronomy in the Columbia, SC area. This continuing goal is shared by our members, representing many walks of life. Our members have a great range of expertise, from beginner to advanced, with a few professionals. You could say that we are definitely a group of enthusiastic amateurs. No matter what degree of experience in Astronomy you have, I know that the members will welcome you, and be glad to share their knowledge, and share your knowledge.
Our bylaws detail the goals of MAC, but simply stated, they are to educate persons interested in Astronomy. The forum for this education is fostered by the atmosphere of fellowship provided at monthly MAC meetings and observing sessions.
Feel free to call on any board member with ideas, suggestions, or questions. We will try to provide answers to all of your astronomical questions and will make the effort to implement ideas or suggestions.
Keep Looking Up!
Hap Griffin
President, MAC, Inc.
Clear Sky Clocks
- MAC-Hunter
- MAC-Parnell
- Congaree Swamp
- Other Clear Sky Clocks in SC
May 2008: Astronomy Basics
We (the board) recently received a request to possible offer an astronomy basics course. The requestor cited numerous examples of other organizations that have certification programs etc. But does one need to be certified (hahha, not that kind!) to enjoy astronomy? We do... they are called professional astronomers! I do know what the person means though. I teach that kind of class up here at the University of Maryland. We call it Learn the Sky. It's a very informal class that I hold at the Observatory during the summer. 2-3 hours for 1night/ week for 6 weeks. I cover topics like altitude, azimuth and observing satellites; right ascension and declination, coordinate systems; types of objects; astrophotography basics; what are telescopes. Some years, I'm able to hold an advanced class of how to observe asteroids/comets, occultations... observing projects. Note how I said "some years." Even here in the DC region where we have at least 5 clubs within 50 miles of the observatory (and one of those has over 1000 members, the others are more the size of MAC), there is not enough interest in being able to hold the advanced class every year.
The greater majority of amateur astronomers are self taught. Joining a club is a great first step, but it helps to attend the meetings and the star parties. PARTICIPATE!! Then get a subscription to a magazine or just join the library. READ!! I've provided the course info to the board for them to consider doing something similar or as part of the meetings, so be sure to attend!!