Join RFO and our own RFO Docent, Brian Padgett, for an informative conversation on "Zero to Hero" - A Backyard Astronomer's First Steps.
If you’ve been thinking about dipping your toe or diving head first into observing the Astronomical “Ocean”, but need a bit of guidance setting your goals, expectations, and selecting the equipment to reach those goals, RFO has the class you’ve been waiting for!
Brian plans to cover a variety of topics based on many of the questions he’s been asked, along with the ups and downs experienced using the various equipment he has owned.
Before you make that next equipment purchase, sign up for the upcoming class, bring your questions and let’s see if we can take a few steps forward to becoming an observing “hero”!
Brian Padgett has been involved in astronomy since the mid-1980s when he was awarded one of the Striking Sparks telescopes - an annual award program for youth that the observatory still continues to this day. He learned a lot of astronomy under the tutelage of Lynn Anderson - a longtime docent of RFO. After studying electrical engineering he built a career in television and multimedia. He is currently employed at MediaKind, formerly Ericsson’s Television and Media division, with roles including Test Development Engineer, Systems Engineer, and Technical Instructor. In his adult life his love and passion for astronomy was rekindled and he is frequently seen bringing his telescopes to public star parties, RFO’s Night Sky classes, and a variety of off-site private star parties. He is married with three children and enjoys a variety of other hobbies including Motocross, Hang-gliding, Photography, SCUBA, Triathlon, Golf, and a lifelong love of Cycling.
The Valley of the Moon Observatory Association (VMOA) is volunteer amateur and professional astronomers plus a small supporting staff organized as a nonprofit association to provide educational programs about science and astronomy for students, the public, and in support of educators.
The VMOA is responsible for the construction, maintenance and utilization of the Robert Ferguson Observatory and functions as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization under the auspices of the California State Parks System, and in cooperation with our local state parks.
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