Viewing the night sky is therapeutic. Lying back on a dark clear night, away from light polluted areas, watching the sky revolve around the South Celestial pole is a beautiful way to unwind.
There is something about spending time in the dark that helps my brain heal. Whether it's the total perspective vortex telling me how huge the universe really is, or the beauty of a dark sky, or the quiet and awe it evokes, I don't know. I just know it is good for me, and I feel refreshed.
When the telescopes are out and the sky goes dark, everyone starts speaking in hushed voices, eyes gaze upward, connections are made in the shared wonder of the Milky Way.
Our family has been involved with the Astronomical Society of South Australia (ASSA) for 6 years, sparked by my then 14 year old daughter Anthea's interest in astronomy as part of her involvement for her Queens Guide Award with Girl Guides Australia.
My grandfather was also a long term member of ASSA in the 1950 onwards. We still have the telescope he built. My brother is also a member of the Society.
With ASSA We have found a Supportive Astronomical Community. Anthea found going to ASSA meetings gave her the opportunity to expand her learning and network with other people.
May 11 Aurora
by Anthea Wills
We learned the value of clear nights and learned the "truth" of the astronomy joke that the greater the spend, the greater the subsequent cloud cover!
Anthea found Astroimaging to be very appealing as she loves seeing the colours in nebulas. Our eyes cannot see colour in low light and small telescopes don’t catch enough light to show colour but a camera can record colour.
My Grandfather's
ASSA lapel pin
We have all had the benefit of new knowledge, opportunities to learn from some great minds and networks and to develop an interest which we hope to pursue further.
Since 2021, I have been part of the Annual Awards committee for the Astronomical Society of South Australia. Each year I have created a video with all entries received in the Astrophotography Competition. I consider it a privilege to work with these images, some of which are produced by some of the best astrophotographers in the world.
View the exhibition videos here
"Tim Tam Slam" or Eta Carina Nebula, by Anthea Wills.
ASSA Junior Astrophotographer 2022
Spacial Distances
Night Hides the world,
But reveals a universe
It's the Universe,
Not just some fancy wallpaper
(Good Omens 2)
The 2024 ASSA Astrophotography Exhibition video is now available to view on YouTube.
I began as editor of the Bulletin of the ASSA with the February 2023 edition and continue to produce this as a monthly publication.
Astrophotography is a unique blend of art and science that allows us to capture stunning images of the night sky. It's a rewarding and awe-inspiring experience that has deepened our appreciation for the universe.
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