FROM THE VIDEO ARCHIVES: STARGAZING IN SALFORD

This Wednesday, I went to Salford Astronomical Society on Chaseley Road to see this hidden gem for myself and I was both delighted and amazed at what I found. 

I was met by club treasurer Frank Rourke who kindly showed me around the building which is neatly tucked away in Chaseley Fields and out of sight to the general public. 

Downstairs is a small club house with a library of books, films, maps etc, all relating to astronomy and the solar system, also a computer for the use of members and a collection of cameras and telescopes. 

Upstairs is the Observatory dome in which is housed the club's prize possesion, a huge Newtonian reflecting telescope with two refracting type finder telescopes. 

The telescope which was originally at Jodrell Bank, Cheshire was a gift from the late Professor Z. Kopal of Manchester University in 1971 and can traverse through 360 degrees to view the night sky. 

The club has been running since 1971 and has around forty members but Frank was keen to stress that they are always loking for new members, there is no age ruling and even if you are just interested in astronomy or a keen amateur you will be made more than welcome. 

Club members are prepared to give tips to new members on how to align their telescopes, where to purchase equipment whilst the club has several telescopes that can be taken outside to view the Salford night sky. 

The club has an open night on the first Wednesday of each month, also they have guest speakers with the talks being held at Salford University. 

Whilst I was there six curious new visitors attended and they were delighted with the reception they received by the friendly and informative staff and vowed to return. 

I would urge anybody who has an interest in astronomy to give Salford Astronomical Society a visit, I can guarantee that you will not be disappointed at this Salford treasure.

This article was first show on SalfordOnline on the 4th February 2011, it is reproduced here with the blessings of Emperor Flynn of Thargon 5.