Attendees: KP, AC, PH
Apologies: NT, 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 DH offered to help but there never seems to be time before each meeting
Lunt Solar Telescope (PH)
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.
Expense was approved and has been carried out. Telescope is now in excellent condition.
Agreed it should be offered to members for hire but should be insured for breakage and theft. It was agreed that the costs of the insurance should be offset by charging members a hire fee.
Specialist insurance so KP will speak with DT.
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 [redacted for GDPR]. DT had opened the observatory up for him recently.
AC to continue pursuing
Dome is sticking. A meeting was due to be arranged with Grainger to consider repairs (we cannot make any ourselves). Grainger have not proposed any meeting.
AC to chase Grainger
Summer Fete (KP)
KP reported the summer fete was held and KP was satisfied that it had increased the public profile of the Society. A couple of people had expressed interest in joining and a meeting at the Alexander telescope of 5th Sep has been arranged with our local MP, Alex Baker, and her team.
Storage of FAS Equipment
It might be time to dispose of equipment that is beyond repair.
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. Auction at the AGM
5. DUMP!
In addition, it was agreed that it would be worth displaying pictures of the better equipment available for hire at Society meetings.
KP will investigate its preparation
Recurring Items
Finance (PH)
Peter to provide an update on the state of FAS finances.
Observing (NT – optional)
Outreach (AC – optional)
Options for 2025/26 Season as AC is unable to commit as he will be in Australia. (17 Nov – 10 Jan)
KP wondered if any Outreach events could be carried out before Nov, but AC advised that the timing of events to early evening made it difficult whilst the clocks were still on BST. Most Observing Outreach occurs during the winter hours.
AC to write to enquiries that Outreach is currently on hold this season until another coordinator is found.
Options beyond the AGM as AC does not wish to continue as outreach coordinator.
SAGAS Report (DT – optional)
summer convention was a sell-out and talks were excellent.