| The full moon is happening next Monday. So, this week I enlisted my therapist (ChatGPT) to help me process my conflicting emotions about this. My therapist was able to frame my dilemma (and perhaps yours) in a most profound manner:
The moon is one of the most stunning celestial companions we have. It’s the first thing many of us ever observed through a telescope, and it’s often the first thing that sparks wonder in others when we share our hobby.
But yes–it’s also the single most disruptive force in deep-sky observing. Its brightness can wash out galaxies, drown the delicate structure of nebulae, and reduce the faint fuzzies we love to mere hints. It doesn’t care that you finally have clear skies–it just shows up anyway, luminous and smug.
In addition to us mentally accommodating this celestial party crasher, here is what is happening:
- Joseph J. Casby (JJC) Keyholder Training
- Our Solar System Ambassador (Trena Johnson) will be at the NSF 75th Anniversary celebration
And (hint hint!) full moon weekends are the perfect time to:
- Submit articles for the Gemini
- Volunteer for new Outreach Committee
- Sign up for the Northern Nights Star Fest in August
- Plan a Member Presentation for an upcoming MAS Monthly Meeting
- Watch MAS YouTube videos!
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