Attendees: KP, AC
Apologies: NT, PH, DT, DH
Taken By : AC
Written By AC
Items
Website Security (DT)
Anything to report?
DT: Nothing to report
Dual Microphone (DT)
KP has bought it but had trouble getting it to work. Further testing by KP Required.
KP: Still progressing
Lunt Solar Telescope (PH)
PH has been contacting potential repairers. Still not clear if it will need to be sent to the US.
Update from PH: –
Danny and I have carried out some experiments comparing the club’s diagonal and my own diagonal and feel that there was an improvement in the viewing when using my diagonal.
I am sure Danny will explain and then if the committee approves, I am happy to start making arrangements to have the club’s diagonal refurbished here in the UK, but it will cost approx. £350-£400
Two filters: -Red and Blue. It is not the blue filter, and the cost quoted is to replace the Red filter. It was felt to be worth the expense as the scope would be an asset for the society.
AC & KP supported the Lunt expense, with other committee members to be polled by email after the meeting for their approval.
Cost provisional approved. Other committee members to consider giving their approval.
Alexander Observatory
Issue of light pollution and high trees at the observatory. Committee noted the position and suggested AC contact Rushmoor council. “If you don’t ask you don’t get”.
Post Meeting DT suggested AC contact [Contact details are redacted for GDPR].. DT had opened the observatory up for him recently.
AC: Light pollution still ongoing.
AC to continue pursuing
DT: Reported that the contract for the observatory with Grainger has been renewed and signed.
AC: Reported that the dome of the telescope was sticking as it was rotated. This was reported to Grainger who would arrange a meeting with AC to discuss. DT requested he be invited too but no meeting has been arranged,
KP was not sure this was in Grainger’s remit. AC suggested that we had to go via Grainger but if they could not help, we were open to find our own solution.
AC to chase Grainger
Membership Renewal (DH/KP)
Update on Membership renewal
Long story short, after removing 4 functional/admin memberships, we have 78 real members (see blue line) – pretty much the same as 2024 (orange) but about 5% down on 2023 (although we didn’t record any data post January in 2023, so potentially it might be more than that).
KP happy that despite a slow start the numbers are at a healthy level.
Summer Fete (KP)
Should the Society hold a Summer Fete
KP asked the committee if we should think about attending a summer fete. Whilst the membership was healthy, he felt now might be a good time to advertise ourselves. In the past at summer events, we have gained a couple of new members.
KP advised that possible summer fetes might be Rowledge; Hawley; Guildford and maybe Fleet.
KP would also like other members to chime in with opinions, suggestions, and information.
KP noted that John Rees presently holds the marquee and has advised of damage to one of the struts. KP to chase up for details. We may need to purchase a replacement if it’s too damaged to be used or repaired. There will likely be other costs like printing leaflets or displays.
AC suggested that we could hold an event at the Alexander telescope with a marquee.
Costs of events are unknown and vary widely but the smaller village events might be around £20 for a pitch.
Committee members to comment on the idea and to suggest summer fetes.
KP to find out costs at his local fete.
Storage of FAS Equipment
John Rees has indicated that he would like the committee to find alternative storage arrangements for items he is currently holding. KP awaiting email form John.
It might be time to dispose of equipment that is beyond repair.
Await John email then find suitable homes for the equipment
John Rees brought the equipment to KP who after reviewing advised John to dump it.
KP reviewed the other FAS property held by John, and has taken possession of a FAS banner, and some marketing leaflets.
AC advised that 2 of the 3 telescopes he was holding were not in a working condition and could be disposed. KP suggested the following process to review such equipment.
1. Pass to KP for an opinion
2. Ask other committee members to have a look at the kit.
3. Offer to other members
4. DUMP!
Recurring Items
Finance (PH)
Peter to provide an update on the state of FAS finances.
Committee noted that neither the Lunt telescope for the costs of the summer fete were included in the budget and would thus be a hit on these figures. The impact would be offset by new members and the forthcoming 25% increase in subscriptions next year.
PH to note the unbudgeted items and advise if they can be afforded by the society.
Observing (NT – optional)
NT asked if he has the approval to set up a new contract with Waverley Council to use Frensham Great Pond next winter. Please would the Committee confirm the max we are willing to pay for the licence? Last year it was £40. I shall try for the same rate, but can I go up to say £50 if necessary?
KP supported this and advised that the site was working well and would support even more such as £60. PH and AC concurred.
NT to conclude a new contract with Waverley Council.
Outreach (AC – optional)
Nothing to report
SAGAS Report (DT – optional)
DT advised that he had now resigned as SAGAS Secretary. DT advised KP that he was still remaining as Webmaster.