Saturday 17th May 7pm until 10pm Rushbury Village Hall SY6 7DS Observing & Telescope Clinic Suitable for all ages Refreshments Free, no need to book.

Over 3 dozen stargazers greeted James and his guests eager to gain an insight into our Solar Systems gas giants, with a particular focus on Saturn. We were not disappointed as he shared his work through an enthusiastic and informative presentation, that prompted a range of searching questions. With ample time at the end for more informal chat, tea and cakes as well as a huge range of books to browse and select from, we dispersed into yet another cloudy evening, full of new knowledge and cake. April 2025

A number of Shropshire AS members and passing villagers made the most of gaps in the clouds to enjoy the partial eclipse. On show were a number of instruments employing a range of techniques including H-Alpha, solar filters and projection methods, Also on hand were specialist eclipse glasses for enthused viewers to take home. One member persevered to collect a full sequence of images from 1st to final contact using his DLSR set-up. The group finally dispersed, with a smile on their faces, to continue with their usual Saturday tasks. March 2025

Twilight observing was the highlight of a visit to a local Brownie Group with Jupiter taking centre stage and a fly-by the International Space Station. Indoors we constructed pinhole cameras and constellation viewers, as well a discussion a magical display of Sun Spot images.. Small groups 'argued' as to what they might pack on a trip to space before heading into the darkness with their final task of designing a space suit. March 2025

The schools lunchtime astronomy club were treated to another visit from the SAS outreach team. Being in between a lunar and solar eclipse was the ideal time to explore what causes such interesting phenomena. Constructing models and learning how to use the free 'solar glasses' provided the motivation to seek out the partial solar eclipse in a few days time. March 2025

A sold out event at Whixall and Bettisfield Mosses National Nature Reserve HQ was the destination for a handful of SAS members. Full cloud cover and heavy mist did not dampen any enthusiasm as the budding stargazers were treated to a couple of presentations and the opportunity to ask all those awkward questions. The gathering dispersed with solar glasses in hand after a short briefing on how to make the best of them with the partial solar eclipse in a weeks time. March 2025

Trying to provide all things to all 'Astronomers' is a herculean task. However this months meeting at Rodington focused on the younger generation of our fraternity. Having renewed our link with the National School's Observatory, based at Liverpool John Moores University, the opportunity of using research grade, professional telescopes was explored. Inspired by a simple introduction, budding astronomers were invited to register and start exploring the Universe. Encouragement and advice was in abundance by jealous 'so called' amateur astronomers, who can only wish what might have been. March 2025

What a wonderful early evening. Clear skies enthusiastic young stargazers and planets on parade. Keen SAS members responding to a request for help with stargazing by setting up a couple of scopes. The nearly full moon was visible in the twilight, clearly showing its 'bumps' and 'bubbles.' Following a short discussion on the Solar System the dozen or so 'Beavers' were treated to superb views of Venus (looking so much like the moon) Jupiter (and its star like moons), as well as the distinctive rusty red of Mars. I am sure if it was not so cold and eager parents needing to get home, we could have spent much longer answering questions from the inquisitive gathering. March 2025

Promoting STEM the SAS outreach team responded to a request from the Jon Egging trust to help with their Blue Skies programme. This is an intensive, targeted, early intervention programme aimed at young people age 12+. As part of our contribution to the programme we spent a day working with a small group of local youngsters. Based at Cosford Air Museum we developed team work through a wide range of moon themed activities. A good time was had by all judging by the smiles. March 2025

There was definitely an alignment of sorts when three out-reach volunteers turned up at Bayston Hill Scout hut. We had fortunately arranged to help with their astronomy award which coincided at the same time as the 'Planet Parade' AND the skies were clear. We promptly abandoned our usual presentations and ventured outside to explore the heavens. The phase of Venus, the Galilean Moons of Jupiter, the rust coloured Mars, as well as the greenish disk of Uranus where all in magnificent view. the many features of the winter circle were discussed and seen despite the glare of the street lights. We retired inside to answer questions before returning them to their waiting families. What a difference clear skies make. February 2025