The Night Sky from Orpington or Bromley
NOTE: The view below is a close approximation to what might be seen looking due south from Orpington or Bromley on a clear and "transparent" night. Although some of you will have witnessed the night sky from a very dark vantage point, say on holiday abroad or in a desert, most of us will only see a smaller selection of stars when viewing from an urban environment. Don't despair, there is still plenty to see!
Also note, the position of any planets relative to the background stars will change from night to night. Below is an approximation.
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July 2009 |
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The instruments described below are available for members to borrow, though special conditions will apply in some cases. However, don't let this put you off. These instruments are owned by the Society so that its members can use them and enjoy the night sky. |
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Solar Max 60mm Solar Telescope |
 With the help of a grant from the AWARDS FOR ALL "Lottery Grants for Local Groups" the Society has been able to purchase a Coronado Solar Max 60mm Solar telescope, with an HEQ5 Pro Scan equatorial mount and binocular viewer. This will not initially be available for loan to individual members, but will be used at Society observing sessions, at public events to promote astronomy, and at schools to support astronomy education. |
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Dobsonian (12 inch Meade Lightbridge) |
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A wonderful instrument for viewing all manner of astronomical objects in the night sky. |
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A small but surprisingly effective refractor, great for looking at planets and double stars. |
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A cunning device made mostly of cardboard which makes observing the Sun safely by projection easy. |
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A pair of 7x50 binoculars, ideal for sweeping the night sky to look for the brighter star cluster and nebulae. |
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