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Ralph Megna, Center for Solar System Studies (link)
Ralph Megna is a co-founder of the Center for Solar System Studies, a nonprofit group of amateur astronomers focused on asteroid, meteoroid and planetary work from a site they own in the Mojave Desert. He served for seven years as the chairman of board for the Riverside Astronomical Society and led its development of the Goat Mountain Astronomical Research Station. Ralph is the author of published articles ranging from asteroid spectroscopy to photographic Messier Marathons; you can learn more about his astronomical activities at www.macastronomy.com. In his day job, he is a real estate development and environmental consultant. |  |
| Topic | Beyond Pretty Pictures: How Amateur Astronomers are Making Discoveries & Changing Solar System Science
Advancing technologies and clever techniques are enabling backyard astronomers to make scientifically useful discoveries and contribute to our understanding of the Solar System. Ralph Megna's presentation will explore how amateurs are using their observing and imaging skills to collect important data on some of our most diminutive neighbors and collaborating with professionals who are challenging long-held theories on the formation of the Sun and planets. He will also offer an inside look at a unique project where amateurs are helping NASA guide an interplanetary spacecraft to its next destination. |
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| Location | Rock Salt on Lake Union 1232 Westlake Ave N Seattle WA 98109 |
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| Date/Time | Sunday, 22nd January, 2012 5:00pm to 6:00pm: No Host Bar 6:00pm: Dinner served promptly |
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| Menu | Pepper Steak or Fresh Salmon (with your choice of lemon herb or citrus salsa) or Vegetarian/Pasta Entree will be served with: mixed green salad, roasted baby red potatoes, veggie, rolls/butter. Dessert: TBD |
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| Cost | Banquet is $36.00 per person. Please click here to use PayPal.
You may also send a check to: The Seattle Astronomical Society, P.O. Box 31746, Seattle, WA 98103-1746 |
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| Payment |
Note: Cutoff for checks is Friday January 17th, and the cutoff for PayPal payments is Monday, January 19th. |
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