Time-lapse of the skies above Japan’s Iriomote Island on a (mostly) cloudless, moonless night:
Well…this happens:
Love the baby!
Thanks to everyone for coming down to the Star-B-Q. Was an epic night and it could not have been possible without you guys’ support. Shame about the weather. We will keep you posted on when the telescope only event will be held! Keep checking http://astronomy.ie/sbq1/ for any updates.
Also, we would love to hear your feedback on the event. Please comment here, and we’ll do our best to address any issues raised.
SBQ 2010
Good old Randall Monroe has a creative take on the recent Kepler announcements.
Perseids
One of my favorite web comics hits the nail right on the head with his latest iteration:
Apply now!
Tickets are running out fast for our upcoming lecture on the 9th of August 2010. The subject of the talk will be Gamma Ray astronomy. More info can be found at our website.
I have a good few questions lined up for John on night. Wired have a nice article outlining the affects of a large Gamma bursts on photosynthesis. The first in the firing line seem to be the phytoplanktons that support most of the ocean due to their position as one of the primary producers in the oceans. Gamma rays being the strongest form of radiation, cause mutations within the DNA structure of organisms, preventing potentially photosynthesis. This is apparently linked to the Ordovacian mass extinction 400 million years ago.
Anyway, have a read of it and have your thinking caps ready for Monday week!
The Christmas Tree cluster
Astronomy Ireland Blog 