BBC STARGAZING LIVE - Fontwell Racecourse
BBC SUSSEX RADIO

Yesterday, Tuesday 17th January, started with an 0630-0645hrs BBC Sussex outside radio interview with reporter Simon Jenkins at the foot of the South Downs. Blessed with silence, perfect 'seeing' and stunning views of Mars, Saturn, the crescent Moon, Antares, and an incredibly timely pass of the International Space Station, it was one hell of a way to start the day! Saturn's rings were gorgeous through the telescope and Simon's enthusiasm was infectious. Astronomy just doesn't get any better than this!
The live and recorded interview was prelude to the evening BBC Stargazing event at Fontwell Racecourse where I was privileged to be a Guest Speaker supporting Dr John Mason of the South Downs Planetarium and BBC Sky at Night fame. With the exception of a twenty-minute window, the sky was clouded out, but in that time a number of the roughly 2,000 visitors enjoyed stunning views of Jupiter and the four largest satellites through Dobsonian and Meade telescopes. Despite the lack of stars, public interest was amazing. All incredibly heartening, and what a time to be involved in astronomy!
Thank you to everyone!

ASTRONOMY MANUAL by Jane A Green

The launch date for this new astronomy publication is 7th October 2010. Jane is thrilled that both Dr Brian May and Sir Patrick Moore have contributed a Foreword and Introduction respectively, particularly as it is her first book.

Jane started presenting astronomy worldwide whilst serving as a senior officer on cruise ships. After being invited to host a Science Fiction Theme cruise, Jane became a professional Guest Speaker and continued in this capacity on many other ships. Now based ashore, Jane continues astronomy outreach with presentations to sell-out audiences, ranging from Women's Institute meetings and specialist lecture groups in 2,000-seater theatres, to literary and astronomy societies, often working alongside VIPs, celebrities and industry professionals.

This introductory book is for everyone. EVERYONE ... those who are already interested and those who think they are not. Available from all book stores and Amazon. All gentle reviews gratefully received!