Hamilton Amateur Astronomers: SETI: An Exploration of Space and Astronomy
Guest speaker Stephen Holmes writes: “I suspect we all wonder about alien civilizations. SETI, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, and the Drake Equation set out some tools to help us get our heads around these huge numbers and consider realistically how plentiful or rare these civilizations are. Astronomy gives us the tools to determine realistically the star systems that might host these civilizations. Join me to consider some of these considerations.”
Stephen Holmes is the President of the RASC Kitchener Centre. As a young lad growing up in Toronto in the late 50s and early 60s, he was profoundly affected by the space race. Although he pursued a career in the chemical field across the whole gamut of sales, marketing, tech service and technical, it was always astronomy and the idea of this huge 3D universe that was a siren song for him. Approaching retirement, he knew EXACTLY what he wanted to do. His family bought him a Dobsonian telescope for his birthday in 2002, which he quickly traded in on a 10” LX200GPS and spent 2 years in imaging hell. But he learned a lot! But then came along a series of wonderful deep sky images. He now hopes his experiences will be helpful to others.
Non-members are welcome
Non-members are welcome to join us at our general meeting events to see what we’re all about. You’ll find a club full of enthusiastic amateur astronomers passionate about this fascinating science and hobby. We’re confident you’ll want to become a member of the Hamilton Amateur Astronomers and join us in exploring this fascinating hobby.
Door Prizes
There will be a draw for door prizes at the meeting and a free door prize ticket to all who arrive before the 7:30 start time!
Food Share Donations
Donations of non-perishable food for the Hamilton Food Share program will be collected at this meeting. Please drop off any items at the drop-box located near the entrance of the auditorium. All donations gratefully accepted and thanks to your generosity we’ve collected thousands of pounds of food since we began. Let’s keep up the great work as the need continues.
Become a member
Becoming a member of the HAA opens up new opportunities to take your love of astronomy further! Members have access to our star nights at the Binbrook Conservation Area, our telescope loaner program, social events such as our Cosmology Discussion Group, and more!
Who can attend: Everyone
Fee: Free
Reservations: Not required
Organized by: Hamilton Amateur Astronomers
Location: The Hamilton Spectator, 44 Frid Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3G3 (near the junction of Highway 403 and Main St. West)