The Nanaimo Astronomy Society's inaugural gathering of 2026 is set to be a captivating event, focusing on the art of astrophotography and the wonders of smart telescopes. The society's first meeting will feature two insightful presentations, offering a wealth of knowledge for both seasoned astronomers and newcomers alike.
The first presentation will be delivered by Chris Boar, the society's vice-president and a former president, along with Tony Puerzer, a former vice-president. Both Boar and Puerzer are retired professional photographers with a deep-rooted passion for astrophotography and a long-standing association with the Nanaimo Astronomy Society. Puerzer's lifelong dedication to astronomy outreach and education, including his role as a lecturer at the H.R. MacMillan Planetarium in Vancouver, further enhances the expertise of this duo.
Boar and Puerzer will guide attendees through the basics of astrophotography, demonstrating how to capture stunning images using a simple camera mounted on a tripod. They will share their insights on the initial steps to embark on this captivating hobby. Boar, who started with basic equipment, will also caution that the hobby can become expensive as enthusiasts progress to specialized astrophotography setups.
The presentations will showcase Boar and Puerzer's astrophotography rigs, including star-tracking telescope mounts, which enable longer exposure times, resulting in brighter and more detailed images. These mounts keep the camera and telescope synchronized with the stars' movement across the night sky.
Boar humorously refers to this progression as 'gear acquisition syndrome,' where enthusiasts can spend substantial amounts on large telescopes, robust mounts, and specialized astrophotography cameras. However, he also emphasizes that a basic camera on a tripod is an accessible starting point, and cell phone cameras can produce impressive results under the right conditions.
The second presentation will be given by Rick Ulrich, a member of the Nanaimo Astronomy Society. Ulrich, a retired forensic scientist, will introduce the concept of 'smart telescopes' and their role in simplifying astronomy and astrophotography. He will explain the Seestar S50 'smart telescope,' highlighting its ability to reduce barriers, streamline setup processes, and deliver reliable outcomes with minimal user effort.
The meeting will take place at the Beban Park Social Centre, Rooms 2 and 3, on Thursday, January 29, at 7 p.m. Attendees are advised to arrive early to ensure a punctual start.
Nanaimo Astronomy Society meetings are open to all, with free admission for members and a single free entry for non-members, after which they are encouraged to join the society. This event promises to be an enlightening experience for anyone interested in the captivating world of astronomy and astrophotography.
