The Reading Astronomical Society will be holding a series of informal talks in the Loddon Room at Dinton Pastures throughout the coming year. At the end of each talk there will be an opportunity for practical experience of using telescopes and other equipment. All talks are strictly designed to appeal to the layperson.

Participants of all ages and backgrounds are welcome to attend; the only qualification is an interest in observing the night sky. It is not necessary to own a telescope.

The programme starts by explaining some basic terminology, moves on to the way the sky changes through the year. Later we will discuss the constellations and some interesting objects within then. We try to offer the opportunity to do some basic astrophotography with a Webcam, sky conditions allowing.

If you want to buy a telescope come to see us before hitting the shops and get some practical help and advice.

If you own a telescope that you are not confident of using, please bring it with you and we will do our best to help. It is intended to show all participants the basic techniques for using Dobsonian (simple) and Equatorial (tracking) mounts as part of the lessons.

Each meeting starts at 19:00 and last for 90 minutes. The first 45 minutes is a talk intended to lead to a practical observing session for the last 45 minutes that on clear nights can get somewhat extended. We have 15 minute break at 8 o'clock.

The meetings take place on the fourth Saturday each month (except December) starting at 7 o'clock at Dinton Pastures just off the Wokingham Rd. There is a small charge for attending as the Saturday nights are subject to a charge by the park. Coffee and a biscuits are available at 50p per cup. A responsible adult must accompany children aged less than 16 years.

The Society will attempt to ensure there are 2-3 telescopes available at each meeting; however it is intended to pay equal attention to binocular astronomy; this being the best way to learn the night sky so if you own a pair, please bring them along.

For those nights when the viewing is miserable we keep a talk or two on some of the more theoretical aspects of astronomy available, however these are strictly designed to appeal to the lay person.

We may have to change the order or content of some of the lessons if necessary or if an interesting alternative becomes available. We will do our best to announce this at the previous meeting.

Note: A very useful book for those intending to follow this programme is Night Watch by Terence Dickinson ISBN 1-55209-302-6. It will provide a useful reference for the start charts and contains much other information of value to an Astronomer.

If you would like further details please contact the organiser (beginners@readingastro.org.uk).

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