I joined the Prairie Astronomy Club in the early 90′s with my daughter Rebbecca after we purchased an 8″ Orion Dob and needed help figuring how to use it. She shared an interest in space and science and today is an Astronautical Engineer. We were going to build a telescope together, but fortunately realized it was better to get one that was “built correctly”. After she went on to college my son Carl and I enjoyed time together finding objects to view. My daughter inherited the 8″ scope so I had to upgrade to my present 12″ Hardin Dob a few years ago.
The greatest experience I’ve have with PAC is being together with others observing and finding objects in space. The social times and fellowship is a key part. Also, I really enjoy doing outreach activities, especially with children. That “Wow” or “cool” response when they first see something through a telescope makes everything seem right. I enjoy finding unique or new objects and testing the ability of the telescope.
