Observers Notebook

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The Observers Notebook- The Vera C Rubin Observatory Sep 15, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to the Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers—where we take you from Stargazing to Science. I'm your host, Tim Robertson. Every once in a generation, astronomy takes a giant leap forward. From Galileo's first telescope to the Hubble Space Telescope, new instruments have transformed the way we see and understand the universe. Today, we're witnessing another one of those moments. High atop Cerro Pachón in Chile stands the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, home to the largest digital camera ever built for astronomy. Over the next decade, this remarkable facility will image the entire southern sky every few nights, creating an unprecedented time-lapse record of our dynamic universe. It will discover millions of asteroids and comets, detect exploding stars, map billions of galaxies, help us better understand dark matter and dark energy, and alert astronomers around the world whenever something in the sky changes. But Rubin isn't just a telescope for professional astronomers. Its discoveries will open exciting new opportunities for amateur astronomers, educators, citizen scientists, and organizations like ALPO to participate in real scientific discovery. Joining me today is Clare Higgs from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory. Clare is helping share the story of this extraordinary project and its mission to transform our understanding of the cosmos. We'll talk about how the observatory works, the science it's designed to accomplish, what makes its 3.2-billion-pixel camera so revolutionary, and what exciting discoveries may lie just around the corner. Clare, welcome to the Observers Notebook. It's a pleasure to have you with us. You can contact Clare at: clare.higgs@noirlab.edu Vera C Rubin Observatory https://rubinobservatory.org/ Zooniverse zooniverse.org/rubin Solar System explorer https://skyviewer.app/ Education Resource https://rubinobservatory.org/education For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

The Observers Notebook - International Observe the Moon Night 2026 Sep 01, 2026

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Episode 242 Welcome to The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers, where we connect you with the people, discoveries, and techniques that take us from stargazing to science. I'm your host, Tim Robertson. Whether you're a seasoned lunar observer, someone who simply enjoys looking up at the Moon, or you're introducing a child or grandchild to the night sky for the very first time, this episode is for you. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people around the world step outside on one special evening to celebrate our closest celestial neighbor during International Observe the Moon Night. It's a global event that reminds us that no matter where we live, we all share the same Moon. Joining me today is Staci Horvath, Outreach Lead for NASA's Solar System Exploration Division at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and the director of International Observe the Moon Night. Staci has dedicated her career to helping people connect with the excitement of space exploration, making astronomy accessible, engaging, and inspiring for audiences of all ages. Today we'll talk about the origins of International Observe the Moon Night, why the Moon remains one of the best objects in the sky for beginning and experienced observers alike, how astronomy clubs and educators can host successful events, and how this worldwide celebration fits into NASA's exciting new era of lunar exploration through Artemis. We'll also discuss how amateur astronomers can contribute to lunar science, the resources NASA provides for observers and event organizers, and, of course, we'll get to know Staci a little better through some fun questions at the end of the show. So grab your favorite observing chair, dust off your telescope—or simply step outside and look up—as we celebrate the Moon and the people who inspire millions to observe it. Please join me in welcoming Staci Horvath to The Observers Notebook. You can contact Staci at: staci.l.horvath@nasa.gov Observe the Moon Night https://science.nasa.gov/moon/observe-the-moon-night/ For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

The Observers Notebook- Franck Marchis: SETI- Are we Alone? Aug 01, 2026

Show notes

Episode 240 Welcome to another episode of The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers — where we explore the Solar System and beyond, from stargazing to science. I’m your host, Tim Robertson, and today we’re diving into one of the most fascinating questions humanity has ever asked: Are we alone in the universe? For centuries, humans have looked up at the night sky and wondered if somewhere out there, another civilization is doing the exact same thing — looking back toward us. Today’s guest is helping lead that search. Joining us is Franck Marchis — astronomer, planetary scientist, entrepreneur, and one of the leading voices in modern SETI research. Franck is known for his groundbreaking work in adaptive optics, asteroid systems, exoplanets, and the search for technosignatures — possible evidence of advanced civilizations elsewhere in the cosmos. He’s also deeply involved in the future of astronomy through innovative telescope networks, citizen science, and the development of new observational technologies that could dramatically expand our ability to detect life beyond Earth. You can contact Franck at: franck@skymapper.io SETI https://www.seti.org/ Skymapper https://skymapper.io/ For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

The Observers Notebook- Observing the August 2026 Lunar Eclipse Jul 18, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers (ALPO), where we take you From Stargazing to Science. I'm your host, Tim Robertson, and today we're looking ahead to one of the year's most anticipated celestial events—the deep partial lunar eclipse occurring on the night of August 27–28, 2026. While this won't be a total lunar eclipse, nearly the entire Moon will pass through Earth's umbral shadow, creating a spectacular sight for observers across much of the world. It's an event that promises beautiful views through binoculars and telescopes, outstanding photographic opportunities, and, perhaps most importantly, a chance for amateur astronomers to make observations that have genuine scientific value. Joining me are two outstanding members of the ALPO team. First, we'll welcome John O'Neal, Coordinator of the ALPO Eclipse Section. John has spent decades observing and documenting eclipses and will walk us through exactly what we'll see during this eclipse, why this particular event is so special, and how you can make the most of your observing session, whether you're a first-time eclipse watcher or a seasoned veteran. Then we'll be joined by David Teske, Coordinator of ALPO's Lunar Section. David will introduce us to the fascinating world of crater contact timings—carefully timing when well-known lunar craters disappear into and emerge from Earth's shadow. It's a classic observing program that continues to provide valuable scientific data and is something nearly any telescope owner can participate in. So whether you're planning to simply step outside and enjoy one of nature's greatest spectacles, photograph the changing colors of the Moon, or contribute observations to the scientific community, this episode will help you prepare for eclipse night. So sit back, grab your favorite beverage, and let's talk about the August 27–28, 2026 Lunar Eclipse, here on The Observers Notebook. You can contact John at: kohamher1@yahoo.com You can contact David at: drteske@yahoo.com For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

The Observers Notebook- Stellarvue Telescopes with Vic Maris Jul 15, 2026

Show notes

Episode 239 What makes a telescope truly exceptional? Is it aperture… optics… craftsmanship… or something more? And in a time when technology is rapidly changing how we explore the night sky—from smart telescopes to AI-assisted imaging—where does the future of amateur astronomy really lie? Today, we’re going to explore that question with someone who has spent decades building precision instruments for observers who demand the very best. I’m excited to welcome Vic Maris, founder of Stellarvue—a company well known in the amateur astronomy community for producing high-quality refractors and precision optical systems. Vic has built Stellarvue around a philosophy that emphasizes craftsmanship, rigorous optical testing, and delivering instruments that meet the expectations of serious observers and imagers alike. In this episode, we’re going to talk about the story behind Stellarvue, what it takes to build premium telescopes in today’s market, and how advances in technology are reshaping the way we observe the night sky. We’ll also get Vic’s perspective on where amateur astronomy is headed—what excites him, what concerns him, and what advice he has for the next generation of observers. So sit back, relax, and enjoy my conversation with Vic Maris. You can contact Vic at: vic@stellarvue.com Stellarvue website: https://www.stellarvue.com/ For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

Stargazing to Science Jul 11, 2026

Show notes

“From Stargazing to Science” feels like an anthem for the modern amateur astronomer — especially for the mission of the Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers. The song carries a cinematic, inspirational tone. It starts with the wonder of looking up at the night sky — telescopes in backyards, people gathered under stars, the excitement of seeing Saturn’s rings or the craters of the Moon for the first time. The early verses have a sense of curiosity and discovery, capturing the emotional side of astronomy: the awe, imagination, and personal connection to the cosmos. As the song builds, it transitions from simple observing into something deeper: contribution. The chorus represents the idea that everyday observers can become part of real scientific work. It celebrates how sketches, images, measurements, and observations made by amateurs can contribute to planetary science and the scientific record. That’s the heart of the phrase “From Stargazing to Science.”

The Observers Notebook- Summertime Meteor Showers 2026 Jul 01, 2026

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Episode 238 Welcome to The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers — where we explore the Solar System and beyond, from Stargazing to Science. I’m your host, Tim Robertson, and today we’re diving into one of the best times of year for meteor observing — summertime meteor showers. Joining me is longtime meteor observer and expert Bob Lunsford. Bob has spent decades monitoring meteor activity and helping observers understand what’s happening in our skies each month. Tonight we’ll talk about the major summer meteor showers, what to expect this year, how to observe meteors effectively, and how amateurs can contribute meaningful scientific observations. If you enjoy meteor watching — or want to learn how to get started — this episode is for you. You can contact Bob at: lunro.imo.usa@cox.net For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

The Observers Notebook- Bad Astronomy with Phil Plait Jun 15, 2026

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Episode 237 Tonight on The Observers Notebook, we welcome one of the most recognizable voices in astronomy and science communication. He’s an astronomer, author, eclipse chaser, skeptic, educator, and the creator of the legendary Bad Astronomy blog and book series — Phil Plait. From debunking myths and conspiracy theories to helping the public better understand the universe and the scientific process itself, Phil has spent decades making astronomy accessible, entertaining, and incredibly relevant. Whether discussing eclipses, space exploration, misinformation, or the sheer wonder of the cosmos, he brings a unique mix of expertise, humor, and passion that has inspired millions. Tonight we’re going to talk about astronomy in 2026, science communication in the social media age, total solar eclipses, planetary exploration, and why curiosity and critical thinking matter now more than ever. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this conversation with Phil Plait. You can contact Phil at: thebadastronomer@gmail.com The Bad Astronomy newsletter https://badastronomy.beehiiv.com/ For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

The Observers Notebook - How Christopher Go Captures the Best Planetary lmages on Earth Jun 01, 2026

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Episode 236 Tonight on The Observers Notebook — one of the most respected planetary imagers in the world joins us. From capturing incredible detail on Jupiter and Saturn to contributing observations used by professional astronomers and spacecraft teams, Christopher Go has helped redefine what amateur astronomers can accomplish. We’ll talk imaging techniques, atmospheric discoveries, equipment, processing, and what it takes to consistently produce world-class planetary images. You can contact Christopher at: chris@cstoneind.com For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz Carl Hergenrother Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

The Observers Notebook- Why are people just now finding the ALPO? May 15, 2026

Show notes

Episode 236 Hello and welcome to The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers. I’m your host, Tim Robertson. Today’s episode is a little different—we’re going to take a step back and talk about where ALPO is right now, and more importantly, where we’re headed. Over the past year, we’ve been getting out into the community more than ever—through events like the American Astronomical Society meeting and the Northeast Astronomy Forum—and building new relationships across the astronomy world, including conversations with Sky & Telescope. What we’re seeing is exciting—more visibility, more engagement, and a growing awareness of what ALPO brings to the table. Joining me today is someone who’s been thinking a lot about how we tell that story—the ALPO Communications and Marketing guy, Ron May. Ron and I are going to talk about how ALPO is building its voice, how we’re growing our presence, and why the real strength of this organization has always been—and continues to be—the people behind it. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this conversation with Ron May. You can contact Ron at: ron.may@alpo-astronomy.org For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at: www.alpo-astronomy.org/ You can also support this podcast at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook Subscribe on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2 I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook. Our Patreons: Jerry White Jason Inman Bob Lunsford Steve Seidentop Stephen Bennett Michael Moyer Shawn Dilles Damian Allis Carl Hergenrother Michael McShan Michael Blake Nick Evetts Stan Sienkiewicz John Rogers Jim McCarthy Stanley McMahan Ken Poshedly

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