Today's FedAstro Convention 2008 at the Cambridge Institute of Astronomy

Blessed with beautiful sunshine today, I travelled to Cambridge for the 2008 Convention of the Federation of Astronomical Societies.

On arrival, I found represented a good selection of astronomy equipment retailers, specialist organisations and astronomy societies.

Plus, a very interesting programme of talks in the IOA lecture theatre.

Dr Barry Jones (Open University) was particularly good on “The Search for Extra-Terrestrial Life”. As was Prof, Andy Fabian on the “Power of Black Holes”.

Barry Jones speaks to the lecture theatre on the search for ETI

There was also a tour of the historic telescopes the IOA has on its “Observatories Site”, such as the Northumberland telescope.

This is the most historic telescope they possess. It was commissioned for the newly-formed University Observatory in 1833 by the Duke of Northumberland, hence it’s name.

As an 11.6 inch refractor, it was then one of the largest in the World. It was installed with great care and precision by the then Director of the Observatory, George Airy (of “Airy disc” fame).

The Northumberland is the famous telescope which “almost” discovered the planet Neptune, under the guidance of Prof. Challis. However, the discovery was not recognised and another astronomer published first.

Today, the telescope is largely in it’s original condition, although the objective lens was replaced a few years ago with a slightly larger, 12 inch lens. Also the original wooden dome was replaced some decades ago, with the current metal item.

Northumberland Telescope Observatory

The Northumberland is still in regular use today. Indeed on most Wednesday nights, you can use it yourself, as it is made available for the public observing sessions, which are held there.

Northumberland Telescope From the Observer’s Viewpoint

The telescope tour also included the Thorrowgood 8 inch f14 refractor…

Thorrowgood Telescope

And finally, the 17 inch Schmidt, made in the 1950′s. It is not used very much now, because of light pollution in Cambridge city, but may soon be transferred to an observatory elsewhere in UK.

Schmidt 17inch Telescope, No Longer In Use

All in all, a very interesting day and an chance to discuss astronomy with like-minded people.