This week we’ve got a different take on astronomy. I recently sent out a simple questionnaire to some fellow astronomers, so as to better reflect here the diversity that exists within the interest. My ‘thing’, for example, is DSOs (deep space objects) – galaxies, nebulae, etc. (commonly known as...
For many years Sebring International has been producing Healey 3000-inspired cars in component and fully built forms, creating a superb reputation at the same time. The company is now back and under the ownership of Phil Overall and Sophie Overall. Motorsport fans will find the name ‘Phil Overall’ familiar...
This time, I’m going to share some thoughts on the Messier Catalogue. First published in 1774, Messier’s ‘Catalogue of Nebulae and Star Clusters’ initially included only 45 objects. Later editions brought the total to 103, with the final few (bringing the total to 110) added in 1966 following research...
Most astronomers record their observing sessions in some way (level of detail varies, and some even include sketches). They may post them on blogs or on astronomy forums, but as often as not it’s just to record what they’ve seen for their own information. I usually scribble down some...
This time we’re taking a look at the constellation of Cassiopeia. To the ancient Greeks, she was a mythical queen; wife of King Cepheus and mother of Andromeda. To be honest, it’s hard to see how a large ‘W’ could be imagined as a beautiful queen, but there’s no...
Astronomy in the summer months isn’t the most convenient of hobbies; largely because it doesn’t get properly dark ‘till gone midnight. It’s during these months though, that we’re able to see the Milky Way at its best. It stretches from Cassiopeia to the North down through Cygnus, where it...
Turbo Dynamics have noticed an increase in the number of BMW owners, whose vehicle feature the N54 engine (including a 335i and 535i), complaining of a 'chattering' wastegate noise. The experienced engineering team at Turbo Dynamics, located in Christchurch, have developed a solution for the issue. The remedy involves...
There are so many brands, models, types and sizes to choose from that it can be very difficult to know which to go for. An unusable/unsuitable telescope will only bring frustration and disillusionment. Furthermore, having potentially invested in a telescope, the last thing you want is for it to...
Hello, and welcome to the first of my regular astronomy features. My name is Kevin, I live in Cerne Abbas, and I’ve been into visual astronomy (as distinct from astrophotography) for around 15 years. Because I regard astrophotography as something of a dark art (often involving many hours spent...
Hi, my book – Demystifying Astronomy: A beginners guide to telescopes, eyepieces and accessories for visual astronomy – will be available from iTunes from June 1: Demystifying Astronomy is an absolute beginner’s guide to choosing binoculars, telescopes, eyepieces and accessories for visual astronomy. Based on my own journey and...
