ASTRO SPACE NEWS

A DIVISION OF MID NORTH COAST ASTRONOMY (NSW)

(ASTRO) DAVE RENEKE

SPACE WRITER - MEDIA PERSONALITY - SCIENCE CORRESPONDENT ABC/COMMERCIAL RADIO - LECTURER - ASTRONOMY OUTREACH PROGRAMS - ASTRONOMY TOUR GUIDE - TELESCOPE SALES/SERVICE/LESSONS - MID NORTH COAST ASTRONOMY GROUP (Est. 2002)   Enquiries: (02) 6585 2260       Mobile: 0400 636 363        Email: davereneke@gmail.com

Norfolk Island Stargazing Tour 2024  

A Magical Experience Under the Aussie Night Sky

Looking for the perfect holiday adventure that combines breathtaking views, clear skies, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Australian night sky? Join my partner Peter Davies and me for our Norfolk Island Stargazing Tour 2025—our fifth year of offering an unforgettable, celestial experience on one of Australia's most stunning islands!

If 2024 was anything to go by, our 2025 Stargazing Tour is going to be even bigger and more spectacular! We're planning a much larger 7-day experience that will go even deeper into the wonders of the southern hemisphere's skies. Expect new celestial insights, more exciting activities, and plenty of chances to explore the island like never before. It's going to be one epic, starry week you won't want to miss!

So, if you've ever dreamed of escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life and immersing yourself in nature's wonder—while gazing up at the stars—this is your chance. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or a first-timer, our Norfolk Island Stargazing Tour 2025 promises a truly magical experience.

What's Included in the Tour:

• 7-Day Car Hire: Get out and explore the island at your own pace!
• Free Island Tour: See all the best bits of Norfolk Island, from the historical sites to stunning lookout points.
• Welcome Drinks 'Meet & Greet': We'll make sure you're well-fed and well-connected too with our magic farewell Dinner!
• 2-3 Nights of Stargazing: Enjoy a personal, guided stargazing experience through our large telescopes. The Aussie night sky will take your breath away.
• Solar Viewing: A special inclusion. View the Sun and take a snapshot using the latest USA solar viewing filters 

Take a look at some of the incredible photos from this year's tour above  and imagine yourself under those stunning skies next year. Don't wait too long to book—our spots fill up fast! We can't wait to welcome you to Norfolk Island for an unforgettable adventure among the stars!  Book early our seats fill fast. Contact Dave 0400 636 363 OR Email: davereneke@gmail.com  

Stargazing Cruises On The Hastings River 

ITS HERE!! Experience the Magic of the Night Sky on our Exclusive Stargazing Cruise – Presented by Dave Reneke and Port adVenture CruisesPort Macquarie, NSW – January 2025 – Get ready for an unforgettable evening under the stars! Starting February 4th, join us for the Stargazing Cruise aboard the luxurious Port AdVenture cruise boat for a unique and relaxing way to explore the wonders of the night sky. 

This exciting new event, perfect for both locals and visitors, is designed to give you a front-row seat to the cosmos in a fun, laid-back atmosphere that's truly unlike anything else.Presented by renowned astronomer and media personality, Dave Reneke, the evening will start with a breathtaking Secrets of the Universe slideshow, where Dave will take you on an unforgettable journey through the night sky. In simple terms, he'll explain the hidden stories of the stars, constellations, and planets, making it an ideal experience for all ages.After the presentation, take a break and head to the top deck for an interactive laser-guided sky tour.

Dave will use a laser pointer to highlight the major stars, constellations, and planets visible that night, offering insights you won't find in any ordinary stargazing session. Plus, binoculars will be provided, so you can get a closer look at the wonders above.As you cruise, be sure to keep an eye out for dolphins, adding to the magic of the experience. Throughout the evening, you'll also be treated to fascinating Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, connecting the night sky to the rich cultural heritage of the land.

To make the night even more fun, join in the space trivia quiz where you could win exciting prizes! Refreshments will be provided, ensuring you stay refreshed while you soak in the stunning views and cosmic wonders.With limited spots available, we encourage you to book early. These unique cruises will run monthly, weather permitting, from Port Macquarie, offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience for all.Don't miss out on this magical adventure—secure your place for February 4th today! For more information and to book your spot phone ELSA Now! 0434 383 199 -  Click for  BOOKING PAGE

In January and February 2025, six planets will align in the evening sky, visible from Australia: Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Venus, Neptune, and Saturn. The best time to view the planets will be after January 21, 2025, and before February 21, 2025. The week of January 29, during the new moon, will be the best time to view the planets. The new moon will reduce light pollution, making it easier to spot Neptune, Uranus, and Saturn. The planets will be visible shortly after sunset, and you'll only have a couple of hours to view them before they dip below the horizon. The planets won't be perfectly aligned in a straight line, but their positioning will create the illusion of a cosmic dance. Mercury will join the parade at the end of February, replacing Saturn

Australia's vast skies provide an ideal vantage point. The alignment, expected to feature Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus, will offer an incredible opportunity for stargazers, astronomers, and anyone fascinated by the night sky to witness a celestial dance that has not been seen in such a configuration for many years.

What Is a Planetary Alignment?

A planetary alignment occurs when planets in our solar system appear to line up in the same part of the sky. While the planets in our solar system orbit the Sun at different speeds and distances, their orbits often bring them into a visually aligned configuration when viewed from Earth. The January 2025 alignment will see the planets closely aligned along a segment of the ecliptic — the apparent path of the Sun across the sky. This alignment is not a true, perfect line-up in space but is a visual phenomenon based on the relative positions of the planets from Earth's perspective.

The Planets Involved

• Mercury: The closest planet to the Sun, Mercury will be visible to the naked eye during this alignment. As it is always close to the Sun, its visibility can be challenging, but in January 2025, it will be positioned in a favorable location for observers in Australia.

• Venus: Known as the "Evening Star" or "Morning Star," Venus is often the brightest object in the night sky. In January 2025, it will be easily visible, shining brightly in the evening or pre-dawn sky.

• Mars: The Red Planet is a popular target for stargazers, and it will be part of the alignment, adding its distinctive reddish hue to the visual spectacle.

• Jupiter: The largest planet in our solar system, Jupiter is often visible with the naked eye. Its moons, observable through binoculars or small telescopes, add to the interest for amateur astronomers.

• Saturn: Known for its spectacular rings, Saturn will be another major highlight of this alignment. Even with the naked eye, its brightness and position in the sky will make it easily identifiable.

• Uranus: The distant ice giant, Uranus, will be the hardest to spot in the alignment due to its faintness. However, with a telescope, skywatchers in Australia can still enjoy the opportunity to observe this distant planet.

Viewing the Alignment from Australia

Australia, with its clear skies and wide-open spaces, is one of the best places to witness the six-planet alignment. The alignment will occur during the Southern Hemisphere's summer, when the nights are relatively warm and long, making it easier for observers to stay out and enjoy the spectacle.

The alignment will be visible to the naked eye, especially if you are in a dark location away from city lights. In major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, light pollution might make some of the planets harder to see, but heading out to rural areas or observing from high altitudes, such as from the Blue Mountains or the Outback, will provide optimal conditions.

Best Times for Viewing

The planets will not be in perfect alignment for a brief moment but will appear in their configuration over several days. The event is expected to occur throughout January 2025, but the best days for viewing will likely be around the middle of the month, when the planets will be positioned most favorably.

Since the planets will be spread across the sky from east to west, observers in Australia should look in the direction of the horizon to catch the best view. The alignment will be visible throughout the night, with some planets, like Venus and Jupiter, visible in the evening, while others, such as Mercury, will be best seen just before dawn.

In general, the early hours of the morning, around 4:00–5:00 AM local time, will offer the clearest views of Mercury and Venus in the east, while Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn will be visible in the western sky after sunset.

Why Is This Event Special?

The six-planet alignment in January 2025 will be a spectacular and rare event for several reasons:

1. Visibility: This alignment will be visible to the naked eye, meaning that both casual skywatchers and experienced astronomers can enjoy it. The visibility of all six planets in the same segment of the sky makes it more accessible and engaging for everyone.

2. Rarity: Planetary alignments are not everyday occurrences. While they happen from time to time, a six-planet alignment is particularly rare. In fact, such a configuration of six planets has not occurred since the 19th century. The event in January 2025 is therefore an exciting opportunity to witness something special.

3. Cultural and Scientific Significance: For many cultures, planetary alignments have been historically significant, often seen as omens or signs from the cosmos. While modern science does not assign such meanings to celestial events, astronomers will be excited to study the alignment and its implications for our understanding of planetary movements.

4. Educational Value: The event provides an excellent opportunity for educational outreach. Schools, universities, and planetariums across Australia will likely host events to allow the public to observe the alignment, learn about the planets involved, and understand the dynamics of our solar system.

Preparing for the Event

To fully appreciate this event, there are a few things you can do to ensure the best experience:

• Find a Dark Location: Light pollution can obscure your view of the planets. Finding a location away from city lights will offer the clearest view. National parks and rural areas in Australia are perfect for this.

• Use a Telescope: While the planets will be visible to the naked eye, a small telescope will enhance the experience, allowing you to see more detail on planets like Jupiter and Saturn.

• Check Local Times: Planetary positions change throughout the month, so it's important to check local astronomy guides or apps to know the best times to look.

• Conclusion

The six-planet alignment in January 2025 is an extraordinary celestial event that will captivate skywatchers in Australia and around the world. For Australians, the clear summer skies and the long, warm nights offer the perfect opportunity to witness this rare occurrence. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a casual observer, this alignment will be a spectacle to remember, reminding us of the beauty and wonder of the universe.

China's Tiangong Space Station Marks Breakthrough in Oxygen Production and Rocket Fuel Creation

Astronauts aboard China's Tiangong space station have achieved a monumental milestone in space exploration. Through a series of groundbreaking experiments, they have successfully produced oxygen and the key components needed for rocket fuel, crucial steps toward supporting long-term human space missions. The Shenzhou-19 crew recently completed the world's first in-orbit demonstration of artificial photosynthesis. This pioneering technology produced oxygen and ethylene, a hydrocarbon essential for rocket propellants, marking significant progress toward sustainable, crewed missions, including plans for a human moon landing before 2030.

The 12 experiments, conducted within a specialized drawer-shaped device, utilized semiconductor catalysts to convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen while simultaneously generating ethylene. These tests were designed to focus on critical aspects of space resource production and human survival, such as carbon dioxide conversion at room temperature, precise control of gas and liquid flows in microgravity, and real-time, high-sensitivity monitoring of reaction products.

"This technology mirrors the natural photosynthesis process of green plants but uses engineered methods to harness carbon dioxide in confined spaces or extraterrestrial environments, producing both oxygen and carbon-based fuels," state broadcaster CCTV reported. These advancements could play a vital role in supporting extended space exploration, offering critical technical support for human survival beyond Earth.

While previous experiments aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have explored plant growth and how microgravity affects photosynthesis, the ISS primarily uses electrolysis to produce oxygen. Electrolysis splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity generated by the station's solar panels. Although effective, electrolysis is energy-intensive, consuming about a third of the ISS's total energy for life support, making it impractical for long-duration missions to the moon or Mars.

In contrast, China's new artificial photosynthesis method operates at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, requiring far less energy, which makes it more suitable for deep space missions. By adjusting the catalyst, the technology can also be fine-tuned to produce other essential compounds like methane for propulsion or formic acid, a precursor for synthesizing sugars.

The device aboard Tiangong not only produced oxygen and fuel but also provided invaluable data on complex chemical processes in microgravity, specifically gas-liquid-solid multiphase reactions. The system is designed to be upgraded in orbit, allowing scientists to test various catalysts and refine the technology. This innovation places China at the forefront of sustainable space technologies, crucial for future human exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The technology will be vital for ensuring resource independence and long-term survival in extraterrestrial environments, according to the China Manned Space (CMS) website.

The results from Tiangong's experiments underscore China's growing capabilities in space research, positioning the country as a key player in the next frontier of human space exploration.

China to Plant 'Flapping' Flag on Moon: A Lunar First

In an exciting new twist on lunar exploration, China's Chang'e 7 mission, set for late 2026, will place a unique "flapping flag" on the Moon. This flag, unlike any before it, will actually wave on the airless lunar surface thanks to an innovative design. 

Proposed by elementary school students in Changsha, China, the flag will feature embedded closed-loop wires that use magnetic currents and electromagnetic interactions to generate the appearance of a fluttering motion, creating a fascinating spectacle despite the Moon's lack of atmosphere.

The Chang'e 7 mission will land near the Shackleton Crater at the Moon's south pole, an area of intense scientific interest. This region, permanently shadowed, is believed to hold hidden water ice, which could be crucial for future lunar exploration and potential human settlement. The mission is not only a milestone for China but a significant step in global space research, as it will carry six scientific instruments from different nations, including a rover and an observatory operated by the International Lunar Observatory Association based in Hawai'i.

This "flapping flag" is a powerful symbol of China's growing presence in space, intended to inspire young minds and deepen their engagement with space exploration. While it may be largely symbolic, the flag serves as an exciting piece of public outreach, capturing the imagination of both students and space enthusiasts worldwide.

The mission is part of China's ambitious space agenda, which also includes its first-ever asteroid and comet sample return mission, Tianwen-2, set to launch in May 2025, and its space telescope, Xuntian, planned for early 2026.

Elon Musk Is Expected to Use Office Space in the White House 

How President Trump could change NASA

As the Trump administration returns to power, NASA faces a pivotal moment that could reshape the direction of U.S. space exploration for decades to come. 

The future of key programs, including Artemis , NASA's rocket choices, and funding for Earth and climate science, is now in question.  These decisions will unfold over the coming months and years, as different factions within the administration debate whether to cut budgets or increase funding for key areas of space exploration.

One of the most significant issues is the future of the Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the moon. Launched during Trump's first term and continued under President Biden, Artemis has faced significant delays and technical hurdles. The program's future could be at the mercy of the new administration's priorities, as the Trump team considers its next moves in space exploration.

Adding to the uncertainty is the stance of Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of SpaceX and a key supporter of Trump's 2024 campaign. Musk, who also co-leads the new "Department of Government Efficiency," voiced a strong opinion on his social media platform X on January 3, 2025, stating, "We're going straight to Mars. The moon is a distraction." While Musk's influence in the space sector is undeniable, shifting NASA's focus entirely from the moon to Mars may not be so simple, especially with Congress playing a pivotal role in shaping space policy.

Marcia Smith, a longtime expert in space policy, noted that while the Trump administration might try to fast-track a Mars mission, it would likely face significant resistance in Congress. "Congress wants a moon-to-Mars program, not one or the other," said Smith, founder of SpacePolicyOnline. The pushback from Congress in 2010, when President Obama proposed bypassing the moon for Mars, is a cautionary tale for any future efforts to shift NASA's priorities.

With space exploration firmly on the agenda for the new administration, the next steps will be crucial in determining whether NASA maintains its moon-focused objectives or redirects its ambitions toward Mars. As the debate heats up, the outcome will have lasting implications for the United States' role in space exploration and its partnerships with international space agencies.

Moon selected as historical preservation site to protect lunar heritage

The moon has been selected as a historical preservation site to protect humanity's lunar legacy, marking a significant step in the recognition of its cultural and historical value. This inclusion was announced by the World Monuments Fund as part of their 2025 World Monuments Watch, which identifies 25 new sites across 29 countries, including the moon. This move highlights the importance of preserving lunar artifacts, such as the Apollo 11 landing site within the Sea of Tranquility, where the first human footprints were left on the moon in 1969.

The World Monuments Fund aims to protect these sites in the face of various challenges, alongside other notable cultural heritage locations like the city of Antakya in Türkiye, the Swahili Coast of Africa, and historic lighthouses in Maine, USA. The moon's addition to the list follows an open call that attracted over 200 nominations, which were reviewed by international heritage experts. This decision underscores the need for international agreements to safeguard lunar heritage sites.

The recognition of the moon is intended to spark broader discussions about the future of lunar exploration and the preservation of its cultural and natural landscape. Bénédicte de Montlaur, president and CEO of the World Monuments Fund, emphasized that the moon's inclusion reflects the urgency of protecting artifacts from humanity's first steps beyond Earth. These artifacts, such as the TV camera used to broadcast Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin's first steps on the lunar surface, and the memorial disk left by the Apollo 11 astronauts, are key symbols of this historic achievement.

By placing the moon on the 2025 World Monuments Watch, the Fund invites a global conversation on how we can collectively protect and preserve the legacy of our exploration of space.

NASA's Next Space Telescope: A Sneak Peek

In a large, special room in Maryland, engineers are assembling NASA's next big space telescope—the Roman Space Telescope. Set to launch by 2027, this cutting-edge telescope will offer some of the sharpest, most detailed views of the universe ever seen.

Named after astronomer Nancy Grace Roman, the telescope is designed to explore everything from distant galaxies to mysterious dark energy. It will have a wide range of capabilities, helping scientists answer some of the biggest questions in astronomy.

One of its main goals is to study dark energy, the invisible force believed to be pushing the universe apart at an accelerating rate. The Roman telescope will provide new insights into how dark energy works, and how it has shaped the universe over time.

The telescope will also help scientists discover and study exoplanets—planets orbiting stars beyond our solar system. With its powerful imaging technology, Roman will search for Earth-like planets and explore whether they could support life. It will also observe distant galaxies, allowing us to look back in time to understand how galaxies and stars formed billions of years ago.

Another exciting feature of the Roman Space Telescope is its ability to capture gravitational lensing—a cosmic phenomenon where massive objects, like galaxies, bend and magnify light from objects behind them. This can help scientists map out dark matter, the mysterious substance that makes up most of the universe's mass but can't be seen directly.

Engineers are building the telescope in a "clean room," a controlled environment that keeps out dust and particles that could damage the sensitive instruments. This careful assembly ensures the telescope will perform at its best once it's in space.

The Roman Space Telescope will have a much wider field of view than current space telescopes, which means it can capture more of the sky at once. This will allow it to gather huge amounts of data, leading to faster discoveries and helping scientists explore the universe in ways we've never done before.

Once launched, the Roman telescope will join other iconic space telescopes like Hubble and James Webb, taking humanity one step closer to understanding the vast mysteries of the cosmos.

Elon Musk's Ambitious Plan To Rename Mars

In recent months, discussions about humanity's future on Mars have been more heated than ever, thanks to the bold plans of SpaceX's CEO Elon Musk. Known for his audacious visions, Musk has sparked a flurry of debates with a suggestion that could reshape humanity's relationship with space: renaming Mars.

Why Rename Mars?

Mars, often referred to as the "Red Planet," has been the subject of scientific interest for centuries. It is a central part of humanity's search for life beyond Earth and has captivated our imaginations, serving as the setting for countless books, movies, and theories about extraterrestrial life. But Musk's vision transcends mere exploration. With SpaceX pushing the envelope toward colonization, some wonder if Musk's desire to rename Mars is a reflection of his bigger ambitions — to transform the planet from an object of curiosity into a home for future generations of humans.

Musk has often spoken about the importance of becoming a multi-planetary species. Through SpaceX, he plans to eventually send humans to Mars, with the goal of establishing a sustainable colony. But to do that, Musk may want to shift the cultural perception of the planet itself. A new name could symbolize a fresh start, a human connection to the planet, and an opportunity to leave behind the past.

Symbolism of Renaming Mars

Renaming a planet is not something taken lightly. Mars has been known by its current name for centuries, after the Roman god of war. This association with battle and destruction may not be in line with Musk's vision of peaceful colonization and the creation of a thriving, sustainable human presence on another world. A new name could symbolize the beginning of a new era in human exploration — one that is optimistic and forward-thinking, rather than rooted in conflict and conquest.

It's also possible that Musk is thinking about branding. SpaceX and its missions have already taken on a unique identity, and renaming Mars could be part of building a strong narrative around the colonization effort. Musk's history with rebranding and creating powerful logos — from Tesla's sleek designs to SpaceX's Falcon rockets — suggests that such a move could tie into his desire to shape the future of space travel.

What Could the New Name Be?

Speculation about the potential new name for Mars has already begun. Some believe Musk could choose a name with a historical or personal significance. Perhaps it would honor an influential figure in science or technology, like Nikola Tesla or even one of Musk's own heroes. Others suggest that a more futuristic, aspirational name might be in the cards — a nod to the new chapter humanity is about to write in the cosmos.

Alternatively, Musk could go for something simple yet meaningful, like "New Earth" or "Humanity's Home." Such names would immediately highlight the purpose of the mission: turning Mars into a home for human life.

Will This Be a Reality?

While renaming a planet is certainly a bold proposition, it's worth noting that the international scientific community, particularly the International Astronomical Union (IAU), holds authority over official celestial naming conventions. The IAU's role is to ensure that astronomical objects are given names that are universally accepted. As a result, Musk's vision for Mars may remain symbolic or informal, used primarily in the SpaceX community or by the Mars colonization project itself.

Still, Musk's influence cannot be underestimated. With SpaceX's groundbreaking achievements, including the launch of reusable rockets, the successful Mars-bound missions, and his overall push for space travel, Musk could very well bring attention to this unconventional idea. Whether or not the name sticks globally, it is likely to inspire conversation and bring Mars further into the spotlight as we look toward a future beyond Earth.

Conclusion

Elon Musk's suggestion to rename Mars is an example of his bold, visionary approach to space exploration. While renaming the planet may not be immediately feasible on an official level, the idea could signal Musk's desire to reshape how we view and approach our efforts to colonize Mars. It's clear that his ambitions go beyond simply sending humans to the Red Planet — he wants to redefine what it means to inhabit another world. Whether or not the name changes, one thing is certain: Musk's mark on the future of space exploration is already being made, one audacious idea at a time.

NASA Is Making SpaceX Boldly Fly a Toyota to the Moon

In an unexpected twist, NASA and SpaceX have announced that the vehicle heading to the Moon on the upcoming Artemis mission won't be Elon Musk's beloved Tesla, but rather a Toyota. This decision, which has sparked a mix of amusement and intrigue, marks a new chapter in lunar exploration and a surprising collaboration between two global giants.

The Lunar Car Dilemma

When SpaceX was tapped to provide a lunar lander for NASA's Artemis program, it seemed inevitable that Musk would push for a Tesla to accompany astronauts on the Moon. After all, Teslas have become synonymous with cutting-edge technology and Musk's vision for the future. However, NASA had other plans.

According to sources, the space agency was looking for a vehicle that prioritized functionality and reliability over flashiness. While Teslas are undeniably sleek, NASA wanted something more rugged and versatile to withstand the harsh lunar environment. Enter Toyota, a company renowned for its dependable off-road vehicles and decades of engineering expertise.

Why Toyota?

Toyota has been working on advanced hydrogen fuel cell technology and has partnered with Japan's space agency (JAXA) on the "Lunar Cruiser" project, a rover designed specifically for extraterrestrial terrains. The Lunar Cruiser is not just a car; it's a mobile habitat that can sustain astronauts for weeks, equipped with cutting-edge navigation systems, durable tires, and a pressurized cabin.

"Toyota's experience in designing vehicles that can handle extreme conditions made them a natural choice," said a NASA spokesperson. "Their proven track record in reliability and innovation aligns perfectly with the challenges of lunar exploration."

SpaceX's Role

While the Toyota Lunar Cruiser will be the star of the surface operations, SpaceX is still the primary contractor for getting it there. The vehicle will hitch a ride aboard SpaceX's Starship, the massive spacecraft that will transport both the rover and astronauts to the Moon.

Elon Musk, known for his competitive spirit, took the announcement in stride—albeit with a hint of sarcasm. "I guess the Moon prefers hybrids over EVs," Musk tweeted, referencing Toyota's long history with hybrid vehicles.

A Collaborative Step for Humanity

This partnership between NASA, SpaceX, and Toyota is a testament to the growing trend of international and corporate collaboration in space exploration. The Artemis program aims to establish a sustainable presence on the Moon by the end of the decade, paving the way for future missions to Mars.

Toyota's Lunar Cruiser will play a critical role in these efforts, enabling astronauts to travel farther, conduct experiments, and explore uncharted lunar territories.

The Road Ahead

As the launch date approaches, excitement is building for what promises to be a historic mission. While Tesla fans might feel slighted, the inclusion of Toyota showcases the importance of practicality and innovation in achieving humanity's dreams of exploring the cosmos. After all, on the Moon, it's not about brand loyalty—it's about what gets the job done.

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'ASTRO DAVE' RENEKE - A Personal Perspective

I've often been asked what I do, where I've been and what sort of activities I've engaged in throughout my 50 years involvement in astronomy and space. Here is an interview i did with Delving with Des Kennedy on Rhema 99.9 recently. 

David Reneke, a highly regarded Australian amateur astronomer and lecturer with over 50 years of experience, has established himself as a prominent figure in the field of astronomy. With affiliations to leading global astronomical institutions, David serves as the Editor for Australia's Astro-Space News Magazine and has previously held key editorial roles with Sky & Space Magazine and Australasian Science magazine.

His extensive background includes teaching astronomy at the college level, being a featured speaker at astronomy conventions across Australia, and contributing as a science correspondent for both ABC and commercial radio stations. David's weekly radio interviews, reaching around 3 million listeners, cover the latest developments in astronomy and space exploration.

As a media personality, David's presence extends to regional, national, and international TV, with appearances on prominent platforms such as Good Morning America, American MSNBC news, the BBC, and Sky News in Australia. His own radio program has earned him major Australasian awards for outstanding service.

David is recognized for his engaging and unique style of presenting astronomy and space discovery, having entertained and educated large audiences throughout Australia. In addition to his presentations, he produces educational materials for beginners and runs a popular radio program in Hastings, NSW, with a substantial following and multiple awards for his radio presentations.

In 2004, David initiated the 'Astronomy Outreach' program, touring primary and secondary schools in NSW to provide an interactive astronomy and space education experience. Sponsored by Tasco Australia, Austar, and Discovery Science channel, the program donated telescopes and grants to schools during a special tour in 2009, contributing to the promotion of astronomy education in Australia. BELOW Is the recorded interview  

INTRODUCING OUR NEW PARTNER & ASTRO SUPPLIER

Many thanks to Peter and the crew at ASTRO ANARCHY Queensland. A New business with the amateur astronomer firmly in mind.  Astro Anarchy has the experience, the stock and the knowledge to set up the first timer, to assist in the development of our hobby for the experienced observer OR cater to any other size need or desire in the field of amateur astronomy. 

ATRO ANARCHY AS OUR SPONSOR: My business partner Peter Davies and I have set up a new Astro Tourism business focusing on the recently 'Dark Sky Town' accredited to Norfolk Island. We call it 'Norfolk Island STARGAZING'. When approached, Pete from Astro Anarchy had no hesitation in organizing and supplying all our Telescopes, Binoculars and associated gear to get started. Nothing was any trouble allowing us more than enough time to set up and become fully operational. He and he and his business come highly recommended for anyone wanting any astronomical gear in Australia.

Web: https://www.astroanarchy.com.au/    Sales: sales@astroanarchy.com.au   Phone: 0412 085 224

'Astro Dave' Is Radio-Active 

Heard On DOZENS Of Stations Weekly - CLICK for past interviews