Gems of the Night Sky, the Legacy of Charles Messier

Presentation by Jay Mclaren

Review what amateur astronomers look at, from solar system objects to deep sky objects with examples, geared toward beginners. Many of the deep sky objects were put into catalogue by French astronomer Charles Messier. The Messier Catalogue is a list of 110 astronomical objects, primarily nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies, compiled by French astronomer Charles Messier in the 18th century. Originally intended to help comet hunters avoid confusing these objects with comets, the Messier Catalogue has become a popular target for amateur astronomers. Spring is an excellent time to observe many Messier objects in the Northern Hemisphere because numerous galaxies, including the iconic Virgo Cluster, are well-positioned for viewing during this season.

Dr. Jay W. Mclaren is retired Professor of Ophthalmology at Mayo Clinic. His research interests included physiologic properties of the eye, fluid turnover and pressures in the eye as they relate to glaucoma, cornea structure and disease, and physiologic optics. He has developed systems for noninvasively measuring turnover of fluid in the anterior segment of the eye, for monitoring intraocular pressure by telemetry, and for assessing cell and nerve densities in the corneas of patients.  Dr. McLaren is an author or co-author of over 100 papers published in professional journals and 2 book chapters.  He has B.A. degree in Physics and Mathematics from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, and earned his Ph.D. in Physiology and Biophysics from the University of Iowa in Iowa City. Dr. McLaren became interested in amateur astronomy in the mid 1980’s, when Haley’s Comet was last visible.  He has completed the Messier, Caldwell Silver, and Hershel 400 Astronomical League Observing Programs. All of his observations have been visual and by star-hopping.  He currently uses a 12-inch Orion Dobsonian telescope.

Observing

Public Sky Observing of the young Moon – 8.4 days after New Moon, planets Mercury Venus Mars Jupiter Uranus bright stars, double stars, and more by telescope with guidance members of the Rochester Astronomy Club.