Member Guide – Benefits
In addition to our club meetings and speakers, your membership provides a number of benefits which include:
- Member Access to the RAC Web site
- Social Networking
- Email Notification of Impromptu Observing Sessions
- Access to RAC Loaner Telescopes
- Membership in the Astronomical League
- Sky & Telescope Subscription Discounts
- Option to Participate in Special Interest Groups (SIG)
- Apply as a Keyholder to Observing Site after One Year’s Membership
- Eligibility to Hold Office After One Year’s Membership
- Voting Privileges in RAC Business Matters
- RAC Apparel
- RAC Web Site
The Raleigh Astronomy Club has a web site at http://raleighastro.org which has information for the general public and members. The public section has general club information, observing information, links to other sites, and announcements. The RAC announcements are will contain timely information about the status of club events (like observing sessions and meetings) and will be updated frequently.
There is also content on the web site that is for members only. This information can be accessed by using the login link in the menu if you are not already logged into the website. If you are a member in good standing and do not have a login for the website, please contact the webmaster. Once your registration is approved, you will be able to access the members only content. Please Note: You will not automatically register for the web site when you join RAC, so please request access if login credentials have not been given to you already.
The features and content of the web site are updated frequently, along with status of upcoming events, so be sure to visit often!
- RAC Social Networking
RAC uses social networking for the conveniences of its members.
- RAC on Twitter
Twitter is a micro-blog site that provides short (140 character) updates to anyone who has registered to receive them. These updates can be delivered to email, mobile devices (via SMS), or read on the web site. In order to see the updates, you need to register on the web site:
Registration is free and will allow you to “Follow” the Raleigh Astronomy Club. You can either use the search function to find it, or go to:
http://twitter.com/raleighastro
Once you see the page with the updates, you can select the “Follow” link to receive updates. At any time, you can use twitter to change your settings, controlling things like whether updates are sent to your mobile phone, and who you are following.
- RAC Facebook Page
RAC has a Facebook page to post photos and promote the club’s activities and its mission. It includes status updates, event notifications, and pictures/videos. Please note that we do not permit the public to post on the page, but there are fans of the page who are not club members. Please also note that the Yahoo! group and the RAC web site are still the primary sources of information.
- RAC on Twitter
- RAC Observing Sites and Facilities
Observing the night sky is a big part of the Raleigh Astronomy Club. RAC encourages this activity through scheduled observing sessions, participation in observing clubs (structured observation lists), and by providing access to local darker sky sites. RAC manages standing arrangements for darker sky sites in and around the triangle and is always open to add new locations. The intent is not to provide a private site for any one member, but sites that can be used for groups of members on scheduled days or impromptu sessions (given proper notice for the general membership)
Additionally, many members build associations with other amateur astronomers, many of whom have access to other dark sky sites.
For any scheduled observing session, RAC will evaluate observing conditions (based on weather, atmospheric conditions, site conditions, and safety considerations for our members) then the officers will make the decision whether to observer or not.
Please remember to CHECK THE CLUB WEBSITE OR CHECK YOUR EMAIL AFTER 5 PM ON THE SCHEDULED OBSERVING DAY FOR A GO / NO GO MESSAGE!
- Big Woods Observing Site
RAC is privileged to have an arrangement with the N.C. Forest Resources Department to use their headquarters on Lake Jordan for observing sessions. The gate is normally locked and the site inaccessible at night until a member of the observing key committee (key holder) opens it. Members can also use the raleighastro group to request that a keyholder open the gate on a given night.
Please note that the Big Woods site has no facilities of any kind, i.e. no phone, restrooms, running water, or electrical power. There is cell phone service available in the area.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO ALSO NOTE: The Big Woods observing site is just inside the 10 mile Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) around Progress Energy’s Harris Nuclear Generation Facility. In the unlikely event of an emergency, you may need to take action to protect yourself. The following is brief synopsis of the warning system and potential actions. You can read complete details of evacuation routes, shelters, and other details at https://www.progress-energy.com/assets/www/docs/home/harris.pdf
PLEASE REMEMBER IN ANY EMERGENCY SITUATION, INSTRUCTIONS FROM THE PROPER AUTHORITIES ALWAYS TAKE PRECEDENCE.
WARNING SYSTEM: The warning system consists of a series of pole mounted sirens throughout the zone. In the event of an emergency that can affect the public, the sirens will sound several times for three minute intervals.
IF THE SIREN SOUNDS: This does not mean an actual emergency condition exists, or that it will affect Big Woods. It could be one of the regular tests of the system. In the event of an alert, you can tune to one of the following radio stations and in the event of an actual emergency they will suspend regular programming. PLEASE NOTE: You are in Sub-Zone M
FM 94.7 WQDR-FM
FM 105.1 WDCG-FMIn addition, if you have a weather alert radio, this will also sound a tone and provide information on any emergency.
Please take actions according to any instructions that are broadcast.
THE MOST RAPID EXIT IS TO HEAD WEST ON US-64. AN ALTERNATIVE WOULD BE TO GO EAST ON US-64 AND NORTH ON NC-751.
- Site Map
Click for Larger Image
- Big Woods Road Observing Site Rules
- So long as there is at least key holder present, the site can be used, but when the key holder is ready to leave, all remaining members and guests must also leave. The last key holder leaving is responsible for turning the lights back on and locking the gate
- The gate must be left unlocked while members are observing, but the lock on the gate will be left on the chain and closed so as to appear locked. This will discourage non-observers from trying to access the site. If you arrive after dark, drive in slowly and with only your parking lights, no headlights.
- Guests (non-members) are always welcome to observe, but must also leave when the last keyholder departs.
- The site is only to be used for observing and astrophotography related events. Other uses (including but no limited to camping, boat launching, picnics, fishing) are NOT permitted.
- Red lights only after dark, NO WHITE lights.
- Once inside, please refrain from unnecessarily opening and closing your car door as that introduces a lot of stray white light into the area ruining astrophotographs and blinding those around you.
- No alcohol or drugs are allowed.
- You must not leave any trash behind.
- At no time are campfires permitted.
- Stay in the designated areas.
- Under no circumstances is anyone allowed to drive within 30 feet of any structure or parked North Carolina Forestry vehicles on the site.
- All efforts must be made to minimize the amount of driving off the road. All observers must pull off or back in directly from the road and exit in the opposite fashion. No looping around on the grass is permitted.
- All attendees must avoid driving in areas that have standing water or are too soft for vehicular traffic. This is to avoid damage to this site. It is every attendee’s responsibility to insure that there is no damage to the turf.
- All posted no parking signs are to be strictly obeyed
- Green laser pointers may be used if all attendees agree it is OK.
- The Big Woods site is within the 10 mile radius of the Shearon Harris evacuation zone. In the event that Emergency Sirens are heard, all attendees must immediately evacuate the site, unless the authorities instruct them to stay in place.
- Anyone who abuses the rules of the observing site, including not following instructions of a key holder or RAC officer on site, will be asked to leave and may be subject to expulsion from RAC.
- On site the key holder has final authority and responsibility regarding the rules stated above.
- Site Map
- Howell Woods Site
The Raleigh Astronomy Club has permission from Johnston Community College to use their Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center for observing sessions. This site has one main observing area, in the front parking lot area. It is accessible at any time without going through a locked gate.
Please note that this site is used by many other groups, including law enforcement agencies doing firearms training and hunters. This may mean that there is vehicular traffic on the road around the field and the education building may be rented and have lights. The parking lot lights can be turned off, but this may not be possible if an event is in progress. The rangers can be reached at (919) 938-0115 x 221 if there are questions about whether there is an event on a specific date..
Also please note that there is a risk of encountering wild animals at this site, since this is a wildlife protection area. Please use caution if wildlife is encountered.
Directions to the site can be found in Appendix C.
- Entering the Site
Any member (and guests) can just pull into the grassy area and set up their scopes in the parking area. Please remember to use parking lights only and to use caution when driving so as not to injure anyone in the dark! The lights in the parking lot can be turned off by means of a circuit breaker panel on the right hand side of the light pole. Please insure that no other groups are using the facility before turning them off.
- Howell Woods Road Observing Site Rules
- The observing area belongs to the Johnston Community College and RAC uses the site by permission.
- The Howell Woods facility is used by many other private and public groups/institutions. Please be respectful of their rights to also use the facility.
- The last RAC member leaving is responsible for restoring power to the lights.
- Anyone who abuses the rules of the observing site will be asked to leave and may be subject to expulsion from RAC.
- Red lights only after dark, no white lights, please.
- There is no alcohol or drugs allowed.
- Please do not leave any trash behind, unless it is the proper receptacles.
- No camping at the observing site without prior permission of the Howell Woods staff. However, please be courteous if there are campers using the facility.
- The area behind the classroom building is strictly off limits. This is used for animal activities and may contain animals that can be dangerous. No one is to approach this area.
- Green laser pointers can be used in accordance with the RAC policy on the web site at http://raleighastro.org.
- Entering the Site
- Big Woods Observing Site
- RAC Loaner Telescopes
RAC maintains an inventory of telescopes for members’ use. The current inventory and status of the telescopes can be found at http://raleighastro.org/loaner-telescopes/
Equipment can be checked out by RAC members in good standing. The check out or loan period is 3 months, however the RAC member in possession of the loaner equipment may choose to continue to use the equipment after the 3 month period until another member wishes to check out the equipment. While in the care of a RAC member, the equipment on loan must be stored in clean, sheltered environment with all dust caps, covers, etc. in place. No fee is charged to check out equipment however the RAC member agrees to replace any missing or damaged equipment. Loaner equipment may be checked out at RAC monthly indoor meetings, RACOBS or by appointment with a Telescope Loaner Committee member. RAC members with equipment on loan should be prepared for prompt return of the equipment once contacted after the 3 month period has expired. By checking out any equipment listed on this page, the RAC member agrees to the terms above.
Please contact the loaner telescope program coordinators at [email protected] if you are interested in borrowing any of these scopes.
- Membership in the Astronomical League
All RAC members are also enrolled in the Astronomical League (AL) and receive all benefits including:
• Quarterly issues of The Reflector magazine
• The opportunity to participate in all of the Astronomical League’s observing and award programs
• Discount astronomical book serviceThe club has an AL Coordinator (ALCOR) to handle questions and manage their services to the club. The coordinator can be contacted at [email protected]. Additional details on member benefits and activities can be found on the Astronomical League’s web site at http://www.astroleague.org .
- Sky and Telescope Subscription Discount
All members of the Raleigh Astronomy Club are eligible for Sky and Telescope’s discounted subscription rate.
- Members Currently Not Receiving The Discount
In order to begin subscriptions at a discounted rate, provide the RAC treasurer with the following:
- Your subscription form or current renewal notice
- Your check made out to Sky Publishing for US $32.95 (Please do not make the check out to the Raleigh Astronomy Club)
- The Sky & Telescope pre-paid return envelope (to save postage costs)
These items can be given to the Treasurer at a meeting or mailed to either address below:
(For rapid processing send these direct to the Treasurer’s home address for expeditious processing, both are included below.).
Raleigh Astronomy Club
Attn: Treasurer c/o Steve Izzo
xxxxxxxx
Raleigh, NC 27615
The treasurer will submit your subscription request or renewal to Sky Publishing. The reason it must go through the treasurer is that Sky and Telescope has to verify membership in good standing before granting the subscription discount. - Renewals for Members Currently Receiving Discounts
If you are already receiving the club discount, renewal is done directly with Sky Publishing. Your renewal notice should already have the correct discount price which is currently $32.95/year. Send your payment and the renewal form to Sky Publishing in the return envelope provided or call 1-800-253-0245 to pay by credit card. Sky Publishing will validate your membership with the Raleigh Astronomy Club Treasurer annually.
Please do not send your renewal or payment to the Raleigh Astronomy Club and direct all questions regarding subscriptions to Sky Publishing.
If you are unsure if you are receiving the club discount please check the mailing label on your magazine. If Raleigh Astronomy Club appears directly beneath your name, you are already receiving the discount and your renewal invoice from Sky and Telescope is correct.
- Members Currently Not Receiving The Discount
- Special Interest Groups (SIG)
RAC members have a wide range of interests in many different aspects of amateur astronomy. Some members that share common interests in specific astronomy topics have formed Special Interest Groups (SIGs). Their goal is to promote understanding of specific astronomy topics and further their expertise by working with other members with who share the same interests. These groups meet separately from the main RAC meetings, but they are not meant to be different organizations. In fact, these groups will regularly present and report at the main RAC meetings. These groups are very much a part of RAC and available as an additional benefit to members who share their interests. The club encourages members to start any SIG that they feel will interest other members.
If you are interested in one of the groups, please post a message to the raleighastro Yahoo! group, contact an officer, or contact the leader of the SIG.
- Astronomical Imaging SIG
This group promotes education and interest in astrophotography. It covers all aspects of imaging, including webcam/planetary/lunar, DSLR, and dedicated CCD cameras. The group meets regularly and contains members with widely varying levels of expertise. This SIG has their own Yahoo! group called raleighastroimaging. Members interested in the meeting schedule can contact the SIG leaders at [email protected]
You can join the Yahoo! Group by going to the following site and clicking on the Join This Group button.
- Astronomical Imaging SIG
- Observing Key Committee
Annually, the RAC officers review the list of key holders for the observing site(s). During this review, any member can apply to be a key holder, if they meet the following qualifications
- Be a Member in Good Standing (Dues are Current)
- Be an actively participating member of the club by attending club meetings regularly and volunteering for club events as your schedule allows
- Be willing to act as a custodian of the site while it is in use, acting in a responsible and trustworthy manner.
- Be a regular observer who is likely to go out on clear nights as your schedule allows
- Maintain membership in the raleighastro Yahoo! group
- For any impromptu observing session, be willing to post a message to the raleighastro Yahoo! group and notify the NC Forest service regarding the details of the observing session.
- Be willing to abide by the site rules and ensure that all others do also
- Agree to not allow any copies to be made of your key or allow anyone else to use your key. You must notify a RAC officer immediately if you lose your key.
- Be willing to have your contact information posted (for members only) on the RAC web site and be provided to the N.C. Forest Service.
- Be willing to have your email address part of the RAC keyholder mail alias.
- Be willing to surrender your key upon request from any RAC officer.
In order to apply, please fill out the online observing committee application form (found on the website). Keys will be sent to all members who are eligible for the committee.
- Eligibility to Hold Office
Any member can be nominated for and hold an elected officer position if they meet the qualifications:
- Be a Member in Good Standing
- Have been a Member in Good Standing for at Least (1) Year
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Voting
RAC holds annual elections for the five officer positions during the indoor meeting in April, May, or June. The specific election date will be announced at least two meetings in advance of the election. Nominations for a position can be made by any member, as long as the nominee meets the requirements to hold office, and it is seconded by another member. Nominations can be done in person at a meeting or via email. The nominations will be opened two indoor meetings before the election and a full slate of candidates is required by the indoor meeting before the election. However, candidates can still be nominated right up until the commencement of the elections.
Each individual member receives one vote and each family membership receives two votes. A quorum of twenty-five voting eligible club members or twenty percent of the voting eligible club members, whichever is less, is needed for a valid election. The voting is done in person at the designated meeting, via an absentee ballot on the web site, or with a written absentee ballot which can be given to any officer or mailed to the mailbox any time prior to the election. The Secretary and Treasurer are elected by a simple majority vote and the Co-Chairs are the top three in total votes from the pool of candidates.
- RAC Apparel
RAC has arrangements with several area vendors to product apparel with RAC logos. There are two type of apparel offered:
- Screen Printed Items – These items must be ordered in batches. Periodically the club will put together a batch order for these items, usually consisting of T-Shirts and Sweatshirts. When an order it put together, members must place their order with the club in advance in order to receive apparel. Please watch the Yahoo! Group or attend the meetings for any announcements of apparel ordering. The announcement will indicate the exact items being ordered, sizes/colors offered, pricing, and a coordinator for taking individual orders.
- Embroidered Items/Digital Transfer Items – More information to come
