NEW ACQUISTION: Norm Izett proudly shows off the new scope.
A "Rolls Royce" scope at the Whakatane Observatory will be used for lunar, planetary and astro-photography and to augment public viewing on special occasions.
Norm Izett, who heads the observatory, had been sending photos of his earthshine work to an expert in Fielding, Maurice Collins, who had been forwarding them
on to Professor Anthony Cook. Prof Cook is involved with the Lunar section of the British Astronomical Association.
"Sometime after I began sending the photos, Maurice forwarded an email request from Tony asking for more of my earthshine photos," Mr Izett said. "I was absolutely blown away."
Professor Cook subsequently featured some of Mr Izett's photos in his monthly section about curious local light variations at times in the 'twilight area' as well as looking for bright pinhead flashes that indicate meteor strikes on the moon's surface.
"And with the help of myself, Maurice and others, he is building a data base for his research. He really appreciates the images our generally clearer [winter] skies can offer."
