Don't take our word for it, here is a note we received from
Darren, a new vistior to the club.
Cardiff Astronomical society's Observers Club takes place on the last friday of every month. The next meeting takes place on 24th February. The Observers Club meetings will take place, whatever the weather, at the Black Cock Inn, Waunwaelod Way, Caerphilly, South Wales CF83 1BD. We are able to use the Inn itself. So we have both indoor and outdoor facilities available. It is ok to bring youngsters. It's a very laid back sort of place.
There will be at least 2 (usually more) CAS members on duty between 8 and 10 pm (20:00 and 22:00).
Very often it is cloudy in the evening and brightens up later, so we can then do some observing , otherwise we can show people how to set up or work their scopes or any number of things. Of course if you just want to sit and discuss things astronomical that's ok too. Don't forget it's your society so come along and have a good time.
At first she was quiet and shy so I directed all questions about the scope to her instead of her dad and she soon came out of her shell. It did not take long before she was asking all the questions. As the sky cleared we took the opportunity like a number of others to go outside and look at the moon. We brought the scope into focus and located the moon; she was chuffed to see it and commented on the craters to her dad. Then came the test—I moved the scope away and asked her to use her newly gained knowledge to relocate it, she succeeded and with a huge smile, looked at her dad and said I found it have a look and dad duly obliged looking very proud of his daughter. Next an attempt a planet, we all know this can be difficult so I took over the reins and under some junior guidance located a planet. Turning to our new astronomer I said. “Are you ready to see your first planet?” She nodded and if all who were there that night thought we were having an earthquake and a solar flare at the same time, you were all wrong, she was smiling one of the best smiles I’ve seen for years and jumping up and down for joy. Can you remember the last time something made you physically jump for joy? Look dad you can see the ring, dad dad look quick you can see the rings. Guess what, dad was just as impressed though he did refrain from jumping up and down---only just though.
I think then she realised her xmas present has given her the ability to look into new worlds far far away. Will she be hooked for life? Who knows but I do hope to see them again at the next observers club meeting.
