🌌 Shoreline Astronomical Society — Mid‑Year Update Since Our January Meeting

🌌 Shoreline Astronomical Society — Mid‑Year Update Since Our January Meeting

As we move deeper into 2026, the Shoreline Astronomical Society has had an exceptionally active and inspiring season. From guest speakers and student mentorship to public outreach and upcoming summer events, here’s a comprehensive look at what we’ve been up to since January — and what’s ahead for our members and community.

⭐ Guest Speakers & Educational Programs

Guy Brandenburg — National Capital Astronomers & Master Telescope Maker

In April, we hosted Guy Brandenburg, a renowned telescope maker, educator, and longtime member of the National Capital Astronomers. Guy has built numerous Dobsonian telescopes, crafted mirrors, led hands‑on science programs, and taught telescope‑making workshops for decades. His talk covered everything from mirror grinding to the history of amateur telescope making, drawing on his experience presenting to groups such as NOVAC, HAL, and the University of Maryland. 

Bryan Delodder — TenTelescopes.com & The Accidental Telescope Factory

We also welcomed Bryan Delodder, founder of TenTelescopes.com and the Accidental Telescope Factory. Bryan shared insights into community‑built telescopes, volunteer‑driven fabrication, and the growing movement to make astronomy more accessible through hands‑on instrument building. His talk resonated strongly with our members interested in ATM (amateur telescope making) and public outreach.

🌙 Outreach & Community Engagement

Family Astronomy Nights at Meigs Point Nature Center

Our collaboration with the Meigs Point Nature Center continues to thrive. Family Astronomy Nights — a long‑running favorite — bring telescopes, binoculars, and guided sky tours to the public. These events were highlighted in our club’s seasonal updates and continue to draw families eager to explore the night sky. 

Mentoring Local High School Capstone Students

This spring, SAS members provided mentorship to local high school students completing astronomy‑related capstone projects. From telescope operation to data collection and research design, our volunteers helped students gain hands‑on experience and confidence in scientific inquiry.

🔭 Club Activities & Internal Updates

Astronomical League Membership Renewal

We are pleased to share that the Shoreline Astronomical Society has renewed its status as an Astronomical League Member Society for 2026–2027. This ensures continued access to AL observing programs, awards, and educational resources for all paid members.

Winter & Early‑Spring Observing

Although January skies in New England can be challenging, our club’s members have thawed out and have been out observing in earnest. Lots of new gear, backyard pier builds, and setting/chasing observing goals — including completing at least one Astronomical League Observing Program! 

🌟 Upcoming Events

Deer Lake Star Party — June 20, 2026

Join us at the Deer Lake Outdoor Center for our next public star party. These gatherings are a great opportunity for members and guests to observe together, share equipment, and enjoy the darker skies of Killingworth.

Strawberry Moon Festival — June 27, 2026 (Madison, CT)

We’re excited to once again support Madison’s Bicentennial Strawberry Moon Festival, where SAS will provide telescopes for public viewing of the rising full moon. This event is a wonderful outreach opportunity for our club.

🌠 Looking Ahead

The first half of 2026 has been full of momentum: inspiring speakers, strong community engagement, and a growing presence at local events. As we move into the summer observing season, we look forward to clearer skies, more outreach, and continued collaboration with our members, partners, and the shoreline community.

Clear skies, everyone — and we hope to see you at Deer Lake and the Strawberry Moon Festival!