Dave Grennan has been an amateur astronomer for over 35 years. In 2006 Dave built his own private observatory in his backyard in Raheny, North Dublin, for the purpose of conducting astronomical science. In recent years Dave's research has resulted in a number of new discoveries including two main belt asteroids and two supernovae.
In this presentation Dave will provide an overview of the equipment which underpins his research. Dave will explain how the main telescope was recently replaced with a homebuilt 14" astrograph. The new telescope was founded around a wide field 14" telescope mirror which Dave ground and polished himself. Dave will outline the process of making this mirror and show that undertaking such a project is well within the capabilities of everyone. The talk will conclude with an overview of his current research and future research plans.
Note this is a change to the previously arranged talk – Carl O'Beirnes will talk to us another time. We are very grateful to Dave for stepping in at short notice.
The lecture is free and open to all, including free refreshments. Venue: the Bell Lecture Theatre, Physics Building, Queen's University, Belfast, at 7.30 p.m.
Thanks to the Astrophysics Research Centre, QUB, for help in hosting these lectures.