South East Kent Astronomical Society
About the Society
The South East Kent Astronomical Society ( SEKAS ) was formed in 1972 and is an
enthusiastic band of about 120 members of all ages and backgrounds. We all share a
common interest in the oldest and ever changing science of Astronomy. The breadth of our
activities range through visual observing, astrophotography by traditional means and by CCD
and webcams, computing, telescope making, electronics, solar eclipse “chasing”, meteor
watching, aurorae, lectures, solar observing, and public stargazing sessions.
Above all, the aim of the society is to encourage and expand each member's interest in
astronomy and promote a greater general understanding of the night sky and the universe we
all share. Several telescopes are available for loan. There are regular meetings and talks. A
programme of evenings specifically for night-time observing is always included, with
members’ equipment available - enabling the newcomer to be shown the night sky by an
experienced and friendly guide.
The yearly programme of events is aimed at all members, and is additionally supported by
supplementary observing sessions and meetings as the occasion or interest arises.
The society is a member of the Federation of Astronomical Societies, and SEKAS members are
therefore able to take part in the additional events organised by this group of over 100 other
local societies.
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MEETINGS
These are held with the primary purpose of building contacts between people with a similar
interest in astronomy, and are an informal way to learn and keep up to date with the night
sky.
For the ambitious, help and advice is available to anyone wishing to make their own
telescopes and other equipment. It is especially satisfying using an instrument made by one’s
own hand.
Trips are occasionally organised to places of astronomical interest, and can sometimes give
our members "behind the scenes" access. Previous locations have included the Royal
Greenwich Observatory, Cambridge University, Canterbury University, UWIST in Cardiff, The
Science Museum, and others.
Guest lecturers are arranged from time to time, and include some of the UK's leading
astronomers. Our local talks are aimed at a very understandable level, yet give insight to the
latest ideas and discoveries.
The annual programme of events usually includes an annual dinner, a summer barbecue or
picnic, (typically timed for the Perseid meteor shower or solar observing) and a competition
evening. Additional meetings may be held by smaller groups of members outside of the official
SEKAS programme of events, to cater for specialist interests.
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MAGAZINE and NEWSLETTER
The society publishes a magazine, titled Eclipse with all material written by members.
Articles focus on the practical skills of observing, comments on the latest ideas in the
professional world, news and many articles aimed specially at the beginner. It is an all round
way to stay in touch with both the society, the latest events and learn at the same time.
An email newsletter (known as ‘Cyber Spaced Out’ or CSO) is circulated roughly weekly to
those members who ask to receive it. This a valuable and timely way to keep up to date with
what is happening generally, member’s observations and photos, and alerts for unexpected
celestial events.
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EDUCATION
No other pursuit can claim the breadth encompassed by astronomy. As such, it can become
a rewarding and lifetime interest. For parents, encouraging a child's interest in the subject
can lead to a wider understanding of the basics of many science subjects taught at school
and beyond, often well before they are actually featured in a school’s curriculum. Several
members have taken the GCSE in the subject out of pure interest, and been amazed at just
how much they know from their hobby. SEKAS tries to help increase the public awareness of
the subject in general, by way of exhibitions and public observing sessions.
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ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
A particular interest for us is promoting the idea of darker skies to allow the wonders of the
heavens to be available for view in the future. The Dark Skies campaign addresses a world-
wide problem that wastes enormous amounts of energy each year through poor design and
selection of lighting facilities. This is now having some success, with local councils and
businesses in parts of the country committed to improving the night time environment for
everyone whilst saving costs.
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ORGANISATION
SEKAS appoints a Committee annually to run the society and organise events. Any member
is able to stand for election to the Committee at the Annual General Meeting.
Each year all members have a say in the programme of events, policy, and focus, of the
society. SEKAS is an evolutionary body that adapts as required to fulfil the demands and
wishes of its members.
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SUBSCRIPTION
The yearly membership fee is just £15 for adults, £5 for the under 18's and £12 for the over
60's. There is also a special Family rate of £20 covering all members of the same family living
at the same address. Membership includes the society magazine, and attendance at meetings,
although a small additional charge may be made for special meetings.
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FOR THOSE WHO WOULD LIKE TO KNOW MORE
The best way to start is to attend a SEKAS meeting.
Alternatively contact one of the people below.
Ashley Fuggle (Chairman) 01303 163276
Tony Bennett (Secretary) 01843 831079
