NSAAC Business Meeting September 06, 2024
Vice President Justin Murray called the meeting to order at 7:30. Justin noted that some board members were unable to attend, and so he presided over this meeting. There were 35 people in attendance (including 4 board members) and another 5 attendees on zoom.
Several visitors were welcomed: Louis, Ken, Sophia and Perry.
The minutes of the August 2, 2024 business meeting were accepted by acclamation, with one member noting that they were a "riveting read".
Justin noted that Brewster has new zoom mics coming at a future meeting, which should enhance our audio quality on zoom.
Officers Reports
Treasurer: Ron Sampson informed the club that our CD turned over recently.
Star Parties: Brewster was unable to attend, but shared the following:
- please check the volunteer page on our website for updates. Some events may be cancelled due to EEE concerns. We will encourage bug spray when attending events.
Mendel Observatory at Merrimack College - the telescope is still in maintenance, and is expected back by end of this month.
Salem State Observatory - Dennis shared that he will be opening Monday September 9 for the first time this season. He went up with his son recently to do some maintenance. They tried to remove the front panel to change the battery but had no luck. They cleaned up the scope and lenses. They abandoned an attempt to lift the telescope. The alignment of scope was only half a degree off. Will need to do software update to fix a bug that may have crept in. They lubricated the pulley wheel. Dennis will adjust the drive wheel on Monday
Brewster thanks all who helped at August events- Donovan Reservation in Hamilton, and Crane Beach in Ipswich (where we had 9 scopes!)
A few members went to Battis Farm recently and got in some good observing.
Old Business
None.
New Business
Our annual Battis Farm Star Party is coming up on September 14th and 27th as part of Trails and Sails. Watch website for updates . The event will be discussed at the next board meeting next week
Dennis reminded everyone here that the Salem State observatory is 6 stories up- mosquitoes are no problem!
Bryan encouraged folks to be careful with bug spray and optical surfaces (eyes, lenses, mirrors)
Business meeting was adjourned at 7:43 PM.
Tonight's guest speaker, Ed Ting, shared stories of his recent visit to Stonehenge.
Clouds prevented post-meeting observing.
Respectfully Submitted,
Tim Hart, Club Member