Battle Point Astronomical Association

Harry, a member of several international astrophysics amateur/professional groups, is interested in CCD imaging and processing, Maxim DL automation, Additional Galaxy Groups and Clusters certifications, collecting light curve data on variable stars, and developing a supernova hunt program. The Ritchie Telescope originally attracted him to BPAA. He has been a member for nine years, and is a past board member. He feels the most important missions of the BPAA are to provide an environment where the varied interests of our members can be served, ranging from public outreach to students and the general public to the more technical aspects of astronomy.

Mike, a member for two years, brings his expertise in banking to the board. He hopes to “continue (BPAA’s) tradition of enabling future scientists, and passing on the gifts of knowledge and discovery.” He enjoys the diversity of BPAA members, saying that astronomy “touches the very core questions to our meaning and existence...(creating) a natural kinship” regardless of age or expertise. He has a particular interest in developing member access to remote control telescopes at dark-sky sites.

Russ, a physicist by training and a mechanical engineer by trade, enjoys observing planets and sketching telescopic views. Other interests include camping, kayaking, hiking, and fishing. He’s been a member for seven years. BPAA gives him the opportunity to meet experienced amateur astronomers and work with state-of-the-art equipment. He would like BPAA to engage both serious and not-so-serious amateur astronomers in the on-going exploration of the universe.

Frank has always had an interest in science, particularly physics. When time allows,he also brews beer. While he's not sure if there’s any correlation between brewing and astronomy, he'd be happy to “offer a bottle or two to anyone who’d like to suggest a linkage.” He is impressed with the physical facility that has been built through dedication and hard work of the members, and the enthusiasm of the membership for the science underlying astronomy. He sees BPAA as an “outstanding community resource with much potential to open doors to scientific discovery for people of all ages,” and is excited by the prospect of capital improvements that promise to introduce astronomy and scientific discovery to a wider audience.

Steve believes that “the education mission of the BPAA is the most important aspect of what our association does.” A retired software engineer and stay-at-home-dad, the Education Officer has been interested in astronomy since college and has been involved in several clubs. He say the “facilities that BPAA has with the observatory and the planetarium surpass any other club or association that he has seen.”

Malcolm looks after the welfare of the Ritchie Telescope. Telescope hardware, optics, and control systems preoccupy him. A member for nine years, he is pleased that anyone who is interested can join and learn a great deal about astronomy and telescopes. He feels it is important that BPAA be a facility dedicated to the hands-on pursuit of amateur science.