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Episode 244 Welcome everyone to another episode of the Observers Notebook Podcast. This episode is going to be a little different. Rather than talking about how to observe an astronomical object or interviewing someone about their work, I want to take you along on a very personal astronomy adventure—my week aboard Windstar’s Star Pride during the August 2026 total solar eclipse in Iceland. I’ve been fortunate enough to sail with Windstar many times—this was cruise number 27—but this cruise was completely different. For the first time, I wasn’t onboard simply as a passenger. I was there as a guest speaker and the ship’s eclipse expert, giving presentations, answering questions, working with the Captain and bridge crew, and helping prepare the passengers for what we hoped would be an incredible total solar eclipse at sea. And then, about an hour before the eclipse, Iceland reminded us who was really in charge. The fog rolled in. We didn't get the picture-perfect view of totality we had dreamed about. But what happened aboard the Star Pride when the Moon’s shadow reached us turned out to be something I will never forget. The sky dramatically darkened, the temperature plunged, and hundreds of passengers and crew members cheered together as we entered the shadow of the Moon. In this episode, I want to share what happened behind the scenes—the preparations, my conversations with the Captain, what it was like giving presentations aboard the ship, the eclipse itself, and some of the wonderful people we met along the way. I'll also be joined for a short conversation by fellow guest speaker Orly Orlyson, an Icelandic filmmaker, historian, and storyteller, who will tell us about his museum in Húsavík and the remarkable connection between this little Icelandic town, the movie Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, and the Academy Awards. So pour yourself a cup of coffee—or, in true Windstar fashion, maybe a glass of wine—and come aboard the Star Pride with me as we head into the shadow of the Moon. Let’s get started. You can contact Windstar Cruises at: https://www.windstarcruises.com/ 2027 Windstar Eclipse Cruise https://www.windstarcruises.com/tour-details/PIRPIR9D/greek/piraeus-to-piraeus/9-day-total-solar-eclipse-from-greece-and-malta/?pkgid=1045979 My video from the cruise https://youtu.be/Rus7ySr8Wqo?si=pR9UFiqc5O3Umjjf Orly Orlyson [email protected] Husavik Song https://youtu.be/UamELF1MyN0?si=fry6iGFsLGv4EGGJ For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

Welcome to the Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers—where we take you from Stargazing to Science. I'm your host, Tim Robertson. Every once in a generation, astronomy takes a giant leap forward. From Galileo's first telescope to the Hubble Space Telescope, new instruments have transformed the way we see and understand the universe. Today, we're witnessing another one of those moments. High atop Cerro Pachón in Chile stands the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, home to the largest digital camera ever built for astronomy. Over the next decade, this remarkable facility will image the entire southern sky every few nights, creating an unprecedented time-lapse record of our dynamic universe. It will discover millions of asteroids and comets, detect exploding stars, map billions of galaxies, help us better understand dark matter and dark energy, and alert astronomers around the world whenever something in the sky changes. But Rubin isn't just a telescope for professional astronomers. Its discoveries will open exciting new opportunities for amateur astronomers, educators, citizen scientists, and organizations like ALPO to participate in real scientific discovery. Joining me today is Clare Higgs from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory. Clare is helping share the story of this extraordinary project and its mission to transform our understanding of the cosmos. We'll talk about how the observatory works, the science it's designed to accomplish, what makes its 3.2-billion-pixel camera so revolutionary, and what exciting discoveries may lie just around the corner. Clare, welcome to the Observers Notebook. It's a pleasure to have you with us. You can contact Clare at: [email protected] Vera C Rubin Observatory https://rubinobservatory.org/ Zooniverse zooniverse.org/rubin Solar System explorer https://skyviewer.app/ Education Resource https://rubinobservatory.org/education For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

Episode 242 Welcome to The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers, where we connect you with the people, discoveries, and techniques that take us from stargazing to science. I'm your host, Tim Robertson. Whether you're a seasoned lunar observer, someone who simply enjoys looking up at the Moon, or you're introducing a child or grandchild to the night sky for the very first time, this episode is for you. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people around the world step outside on one special evening to celebrate our closest celestial neighbor during International Observe the Moon Night. It's a global event that reminds us that no matter where we live, we all share the same Moon. Joining me today is Staci Horvath, Outreach Lead for NASA's Solar System Exploration Division at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and the director of International Observe the Moon Night. Staci has dedicated her career to helping people connect with the excitement of space exploration, making astronomy accessible, engaging, and inspiring for audiences of all ages. Today we'll talk about the origins of International Observe the Moon Night, why the Moon remains one of the best objects in the sky for beginning and experienced observers alike, how astronomy clubs and educators can host successful events, and how this worldwide celebration fits into NASA's exciting new era of lunar exploration through Artemis. We'll also discuss how amateur astronomers can contribute to lunar science, the resources NASA provides for observers and event organizers, and, of course, we'll get to know Staci a little better through some fun questions at the end of the show. So grab your favorite observing chair, dust off your telescope—or simply step outside and look up—as we celebrate the Moon and the people who inspire millions to observe it. Please join me in welcoming Staci Horvath to The Observers Notebook. You can contact Staci at: [email protected] Observe the Moon Night https://science.nasa.gov/moon/observe-the-moon-night/ For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

Episode 240 Welcome to another episode of The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers — where we explore the Solar System and beyond, from stargazing to science. I’m your host, Tim Robertson, and today we’re diving into one of the most fascinating questions humanity has ever asked: Are we alone in the universe? For centuries, humans have looked up at the night sky and wondered if somewhere out there, another civilization is doing the exact same thing — looking back toward us. Today’s guest is helping lead that search. Joining us is Franck Marchis — astronomer, planetary scientist, entrepreneur, and one of the leading voices in modern SETI research. Franck is known for his groundbreaking work in adaptive optics, asteroid systems, exoplanets, and the search for technosignatures — possible evidence of advanced civilizations elsewhere in the cosmos. He’s also deeply involved in the future of astronomy through innovative telescope networks, citizen science, and the development of new observational technologies that could dramatically expand our ability to detect life beyond Earth. You can contact Franck at: [email protected] SETI https://www.seti.org/ Skymapper https://skymapper.io/ For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

Welcome to another episode of The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers (ALPO), where we take you From Stargazing to Science. I'm your host, Tim Robertson, and today we're looking ahead to one of the year's most anticipated celestial events—the deep partial lunar eclipse occurring on the night of August 27–28, 2026. While this won't be a total lunar eclipse, nearly the entire Moon will pass through Earth's umbral shadow, creating a spectacular sight for observers across much of the world. It's an event that promises beautiful views through binoculars and telescopes, outstanding photographic opportunities, and, perhaps most importantly, a chance for amateur astronomers to make observations that have genuine scientific value. Joining me are two outstanding members of the ALPO team. First, we'll welcome John O'Neal, Coordinator of the ALPO Eclipse Section. John has spent decades observing and documenting eclipses and will walk us through exactly what we'll see during this eclipse, why this particular event is so special, and how you can make the most of your observing session, whether you're a first-time eclipse watcher or a seasoned veteran. Then we'll be joined by David Teske, Coordinator of ALPO's Lunar Section. David will introduce us to the fascinating world of crater contact timings—carefully timing when well-known lunar craters disappear into and emerge from Earth's shadow. It's a classic observing program that continues to provide valuable scientific data and is something nearly any telescope owner can participate in. So whether you're planning to simply step outside and enjoy one of nature's greatest spectacles, photograph the changing colors of the Moon, or contribute observations to the scientific community, this episode will help you prepare for eclipse night. So sit back, grab your favorite beverage, and let's talk about the August 27–28, 2026 Lunar Eclipse, here on The Observers Notebook. You can contact John at: [email protected] You can contact David at: [email protected] For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

Episode 239 What makes a telescope truly exceptional? Is it aperture… optics… craftsmanship… or something more? And in a time when technology is rapidly changing how we explore the night sky—from smart telescopes to AI-assisted imaging—where does the future of amateur astronomy really lie? Today, we’re going to explore that question with someone who has spent decades building precision instruments for observers who demand the very best. I’m excited to welcome Vic Maris, founder of Stellarvue—a company well known in the amateur astronomy community for producing high-quality refractors and precision optical systems. Vic has built Stellarvue around a philosophy that emphasizes craftsmanship, rigorous optical testing, and delivering instruments that meet the expectations of serious observers and imagers alike. In this episode, we’re going to talk about the story behind Stellarvue, what it takes to build premium telescopes in today’s market, and how advances in technology are reshaping the way we observe the night sky. We’ll also get Vic’s perspective on where amateur astronomy is headed—what excites him, what concerns him, and what advice he has for the next generation of observers. So sit back, relax, and enjoy my conversation with Vic Maris. You can contact Vic at: [email protected] Stellarvue website: https://www.stellarvue.com/ For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

“From Stargazing to Science” feels like an anthem for the modern amateur astronomer — especially for the mission of the Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers. The song carries a cinematic, inspirational tone. It starts with the wonder of looking up at the night sky — telescopes in backyards, people gathered under stars, the excitement of seeing Saturn’s rings or the craters of the Moon for the first time. The early verses have a sense of curiosity and discovery, capturing the emotional side of astronomy: the awe, imagination, and personal connection to the cosmos. As the song builds, it transitions from simple observing into something deeper: contribution. The chorus represents the idea that everyday observers can become part of real scientific work. It celebrates how sketches, images, measurements, and observations made by amateurs can contribute to planetary science and the scientific record. That’s the heart of the phrase “From Stargazing to Science.”

Episode 238 Welcome to The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers — where we explore the Solar System and beyond, from Stargazing to Science. I’m your host, Tim Robertson, and today we’re diving into one of the best times of year for meteor observing — summertime meteor showers. Joining me is longtime meteor observer and expert Bob Lunsford. Bob has spent decades monitoring meteor activity and helping observers understand what’s happening in our skies each month. Tonight we’ll talk about the major summer meteor showers, what to expect this year, how to observe meteors effectively, and how amateurs can contribute meaningful scientific observations. If you enjoy meteor watching — or want to learn how to get started — this episode is for you. You can contact Bob at: [email protected] For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

Episode 237 Tonight on The Observers Notebook, we welcome one of the most recognizable voices in astronomy and science communication. He’s an astronomer, author, eclipse chaser, skeptic, educator, and the creator of the legendary Bad Astronomy blog and book series — Phil Plait. From debunking myths and conspiracy theories to helping the public better understand the universe and the scientific process itself, Phil has spent decades making astronomy accessible, entertaining, and incredibly relevant. Whether discussing eclipses, space exploration, misinformation, or the sheer wonder of the cosmos, he brings a unique mix of expertise, humor, and passion that has inspired millions. Tonight we’re going to talk about astronomy in 2026, science communication in the social media age, total solar eclipses, planetary exploration, and why curiosity and critical thinking matter now more than ever. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this conversation with Phil Plait. You can contact Phil at: [email protected] The Bad Astronomy newsletter https://badastronomy.beehiiv.com/ For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

Episode 236 Tonight on The Observers Notebook — one of the most respected planetary imagers in the world joins us. From capturing incredible detail on Jupiter and Saturn to contributing observations used by professional astronomers and spacecraft teams, Christopher Go has helped redefine what amateur astronomers can accomplish. We’ll talk imaging techniques, atmospheric discoveries, equipment, processing, and what it takes to consistently produce world-class planetary images. You can contact Christopher at: [email protected] For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

Episode 236 Hello and welcome to The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers. I’m your host, Tim Robertson. Today’s episode is a little different—we’re going to take a step back and talk about where ALPO is right now, and more importantly, where we’re headed. Over the past year, we’ve been getting out into the community more than ever—through events like the American Astronomical Society meeting and the Northeast Astronomy Forum—and building new relationships across the astronomy world, including conversations with Sky & Telescope. What we’re seeing is exciting—more visibility, more engagement, and a growing awareness of what ALPO brings to the table. Joining me today is someone who’s been thinking a lot about how we tell that story—the ALPO Communications and Marketing guy, Ron May. Ron and I are going to talk about how ALPO is building its voice, how we’re growing our presence, and why the real strength of this organization has always been—and continues to be—the people behind it. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this conversation with Ron May. You can contact Ron at: [email protected] For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

Episode 234 Welcome to The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers. I’m your host, Tim Robertson, Executive Director of the ALPO, and this podcast is dedicated to visual observing, scientific contribution, and the art of truly seeing what’s at the eyepiece. Today we’re focusing on one of the oldest and most powerful observing techniques in astronomy — drawing what you see. In an age of high-speed cameras and stacked digital images, there is still something profoundly powerful about sitting at the telescope and translating light and shadow onto paper. Lunar sketching forces you to slow down, to notice subtle tonal gradients, crater wall structure, rilles, domes, and the delicate contrast along the terminator. My guest today is lunar artist Mary McIntyre, whose detailed and atmospheric sketches of the Moon have inspired observers across social media and astronomy groups. Her work beautifully bridges art and scientific observation — reminding us that drawing is not just artistic expression, but a powerful tool for improving observational skill. Today we’ll talk about her journey into lunar observing, her process at the eyepiece, the tools she uses, and why sketching the Moon may be one of the best ways to become a better observer. Mary, welcome to The Observers Notebook. You can contact Mary McIntyre at: [email protected] Mary McIntyre FRAS www.marymcintyreastronomy.co.uk For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

Episode 233 Welcome back to The Observers Notebook Podcast. I’m your host, Tim Robertson. Today’s guest is someone many of you already know by name, even if you’ve never had the chance to hear his story told in his own words. Joining me is Bob Garfinkle, a longtime member of the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers and a respected voice in amateur astronomy. Bob is widely known as the author of Star-Hopping: Your Visa to Viewing the Universe, a book that has guided countless observers—especially beginners—through the night sky with clarity, patience, and enthusiasm. Beyond that, he is an independent scholar in the history of astronomy, a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, and a longtime contributor to the astronomical literature. Within the ALPO, Bob has served as Book Review Editor for the Journal of the ALPO, helping observers navigate the ever-growing world of astronomy resources. But what makes Bob especially interesting is not just what he’s done, but how he thinks about observing. He brings a deep appreciation for visual observing, historical context, and the role that careful, dedicated amateurs continue to play in real scientific contribution—something that aligns perfectly with the mission of the ALPO. In today’s conversation, we’ll talk about Bob’s journey into astronomy, his work with the ALPO, the art of star-hopping and observing, how amateur astronomy has changed—and how it hasn’t—and why organizations like the ALPO remain more important than ever. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and join me for a thoughtful and engaging conversation with Bob Garfinkle. You can contact Bob Garfinkle at: [email protected] For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan

Episode 232 Welcome to The Observer’s Notebook, the podcast that explores the art, science, and experience of visual astronomy. I’m your host, Tim Robertson. In this episode we’re diving into a topic that every planetary observer wrestles with sooner or later seeing and transparency. We hear those terms all the time, but understanding the difference between them, and knowing how they affect what we see at the eyepiece, can be the difference between a frustrating night and an unforgettable one. My guest today is Daniel Mounsey, known to many of you as Dr. D. works at Woodland Hills Camera and is widely respected for his deep experience at the eyepiece and his ability to teach observers how to truly learn to see. He’s someone who reminds us that great planetary observing isn’t about chasing equipment or perfect conditions—it’s about patience, perception, and understanding the atmosphere above us. In this episode, we’ll talk about what good seeing really looks like, how transparency fits into planetary observing, and even how famous illusions like the canals of Mars teach us important lessons about human perception at the eyepiece. So settle in, grab a cup of coffee, and join us as we explore how the atmosphere—and our own eyes—shape the planetary views we love. You can contact David at: [email protected] Woodland Hills Camera https://telescopes.net/ For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan

Episode 231 Every April, Earth plows through a stream of ancient comet dust, and for a few nights, the sky answers back with streaks of light we call the Lyrids. They’re one of the oldest recorded meteor showers in human history—seen by skywatchers more than 2,600 years ago—and yet every year they still manage to surprise us. Sometimes gentle and subtle… sometimes bursting with bright fireballs that stop you in your tracks. Tonight, we’re going to talk about what makes the Lyrid Meteor Shower special, how to observe it, and why it still matters to both casual stargazers and serious observers. My guest is Bob Lunsford, a leading voice in meteor science and observing, whose work has helped countless observers understand what’s really happening when we look up and see a shooting star. Whether you’re stepping outside for your very first meteor shower or you’ve spent decades under the night sky, this is one you won’t want to miss. I’m Tim Robertson, and this is The Observers Notebook. You can contact Bob Lunsford at: [email protected] For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan