PAUL HYDE BAA: ‘The Radio Sky’

Radio astronomy gives us a very different picture of the sky to that we see at optical frequencies, yet both are simply different regions of the same electromagnetic spectrum. This talk explains: why radio emissions show us different things; the four ways by which nature generates radio waves; and the fundamental law of physics that limits the level of detail that we can see at these frequencies plus the ways by which this law was overcome. The talk concludes by describing a selection of astronomical radio sources and how they work.

Paul Hyde is the Coordinator for the BAA's Radio Astronomy Group and lives in Basingstoke, Hampshire. He uses radio emissions to observe both solar and meteor activity under all sky conditions, whilst keeping warm and dry and enjoying a full night's sleep.

The Vectis Astronomical Society meets on the 4th Friday of every month, except for December. This event is open for non-members to attend. The speakers come from all over the country and give a presentation for around 45 mins. We then stop for a break with tea and biscuits, which gives an opportunity to mingle and chat.

The second half of the evening sees a presentation by one of our regular members showing us what to we could see in the sky over the coming month.

This always involves some great pictures projected onto the large screen. Entry to the event is free of charge, although as we run as a charity, donations are always welcome.

Newsletters are available at the entrance for a suggested donation of £2.00

Please see our website for contact and membership details.