Well here we are in February. I hope the relatively mild winter weather that we have enjoyed has equated to more evenings at the eyepiece.  We’ve suffered through some unstable skies and haven’t had the greatest luck in the timing. Why does it seem that clear, windless nights seem to coincide with a full moon? While great for full moon hikes     (See the event

calendar for Lake Mead’s Ranger hosted full moon hike) not so great for observing, just another mystery of the universe.

The Societies’ trek to Death Valley in January actually turned out much better than the weather forecaster’s predictions would have made anyone believe. This did hurt the turnout, but those who “rolled the dice” and made the trip were rewarded with an excellent solar session on Saturday with prominences, sunspots, filaments all visible on our nearest star. On Saturday the winds abated in the afternoon and by sunset the sky had cleared for a wonderful evening of public outreach and camaraderie under the beautiful skies that Death Valley has to offer. A special thanks to members David Blanchette, Rob Lambert, Fred Rayworth and Glen Ryan who supported the public observing session. Thanks goes out to Geary Kielman , Rob Lambert and David Blanchette  for supporting the solar observing session as well. We look forward to the Fall edition of the Death Valley experience.

We continue to support multiple Educational Outreach programs for various schools and organization. We can always use your support at these very worthwhile community events. Please take a look at the event calendar for potential opportunities to lend a hand. It is most appreciated.

I look forward to meeting each of you. Please come up and introduce yourself. I also urge you to make suggestions that you believe would enhance our time together. We’re all in this together.

We’ll see you in February,

Jim Gianoulakis

Need Some Help With Your Scope?

Do you have a new telescope or one that hasn't been dusted off in quite a while and need some help using it?  If you can't make it to our next "Astronomy in the Park", give me a call and let's arrange a time to get you a little help. I'm typically available before and after our monthly meetings on the 1st Thursday of each month and before each of our "Astronomy in the Park" outings, but I'm willing to come to you to get you up and operating. I just need some prior notice to arrange a time to meet you.  Give me a call at 702-461-1390or send me an email at  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .