Since its formation in August 2018, the Moonstruck Astronomy Club has become a vibrant community for residents of On Top of the World Communities dedicated to exploring the wonders of the universe. From its humble beginnings with 6-8 members gathering in club president Jim Di Paolo’s backyard, the club has expanded to an impressive roster of around 80 enthusiastic astronomers.
Monthly Meetings and Educational Pursuits
The Moonstruck Astronomy Club meets the second Thursday of every month from 1:30 to 3:00 pm in The Hobby Building Event Room. Each meeting features fun and informative presentations that cover various aspects of astronomy. Members enjoy the engaging discussions and enjoy occasional live-streamed observations.
Observing the Night Sky
One of the club’s highlights is its monthly night sky observing sessions, scheduled based on weather conditions. These observation events are often held at the RC field when the sky is clear, allowing members to come together under the stars. Members are encouraged to participate, and while owning a telescope is not a requirement for joining, many members bring their telescopes to share the experience with others. For those without a telescope, the club has a few for member use. Jim even mentioned that a simple pair of binoculars can reveal many celestial wonders.
Special Events and Community Engagement
The club is proud of its recent events, including successful solar eclipse observations in October 2023, June 2023, and April 2024. For these events, the club invited residents to join in, providing special glasses, solar telescopes, and even setting up TVs to stream NASA’s coverage of the event. Jim recalls the April solar eclipse as one of their best events yet, showcasing the heart and soul of the club: a passion for learning and sharing astronomy. The club also organizes field trips to places like the planetarium in Gainesville, expanding members’ horizons beyond monthly meetings. The club has even had featured articles in The Astronomical League Reflector Magazine.
A Welcoming Community
One of the most important aspects of the Moonstruck Astronomy Club is its inclusive atmosphere. Jim invites anyone interested in astronomy to attend a meeting or observing event, reassuring them that prior knowledge is not necessary. The club’s members are eager to learn and support each other on their astronomical journeys.
Looking Ahead
As the club continues to grow, Jim and Vice President Larry Isenberg are enthusiastic about future plans, including more field trips and exciting events like a “star party” where they can view a scaled solar system.
Stay Connected
To stay updated with the latest events and articles from the Moonstruck Astronomy Club, you can find their contributions in the World News, email them at moonastroclub@gmail.com, or visit their website at moonstruckastronomyclub.org. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just starting, the Moonstruck Astronomy Club welcomes you to join in the adventure of exploring the cosmos together!