If you ever had any questions about the observing lists or even what they are, this was the meeting to attend.  Brian Reasor explained about the Raleigh Astronomy club and the Astronomy League lists.  He went over many resources and even had props.  He went over practical issues.  There was a great deal of interest among club members and a lot of useful suggestions.  It was a good meeting.

First, Brian Reasor started out going over the type of observers there are.  This will help you to determine what lists to complete.  These categories were as follows:

  • Visual
  • Binoculars, Telescopes or both
  • Astrophotography
  • Building a telescope
  • Academic

The next consideration is what do you want to observe, your level and how to organize.  You can observe the moon, planets, deep sky objects.  Also, are you a beginner or advanced.  You can organize by using the following resources:

  • Learning how to use equipment
  • What’s up tonight
  • Sky and Telescope Monthly Archives
  • Constellation Summary.

Next he went over the different lists.  These included the Astronomical League lists, the Raleigh Astronomy Club lists and others.

The Astronomical League has over 40 lists.  They are organized around different interest areas and levels.  This can be located by
going to the site: www.astroleague.org.  If you complete a list, you get a certificate or some will have a pin.  Brian Reasor showed the websites as part of the presentation.  As he wrapped up, he went over the advantages of the lists.  Some of the advantages included
the following:

  • Provides goals and structure to your observing.
  • Surprise factor
  • Challenging yourself
  • Becoming a better observer
  • Getting some recognition.

He gave some practical advice which included:

  • Get your feet wet with one list
  • Carefully choose the list you commit to
  • Plan your list with the seasons
  • Balance observing for your list and general observing