September 2026 – News

26th September

Open Day Observing: The sky was clear enough despite some hazy cloud so GKWJ set up the portable solar observing kit in Court for the College Open Day. A steady stream of prospective pupils and parents enjoyed safe views of the Sun through eclipse specs, the Celestron 8-inch in white light, and the Lunt 50mm in hydrogen alpha. There were two sunspot groups, a large number of filaments and one spectacular prominence visible. The prominence was quite easy to see evolving over the course of the hour and a half observing session.

21st September

GCSE Observing: The eight pupils from the Hundred and Remove Astronomy GCSE classes joined GKWJ at the Observatory for the first observing session of the term. It was beautifully clear, but the Waxing Gibbous Moon was rather bright! It made a stunning first target in the 10-inch, with Sinus Iridum particularly interesting illuminated on the Terminator. The group went outside for a tour of the asterisms and pointers required for the course. Then back to the 10-inch for an unusually still view of Saturn with its moon Titan. The session ended with a view of the Andromeda Galaxy through binoculars. A great start to the season.

19th September

Friends Drinks: The new year kicked off as is tradition with the Drinks Party, this time celebrating 22 years of the Friends. A great turnout saw 50 Friends gather at the Observatory under cloudy, but not rainy skies! Food and drink was enjoyed by all, making a great start to the new academic year.

Open Day: GKWJ took the Wetton Meteorite Collection to the marquee in Court to entertain and inform the inquisitive parents and prep school pupils. The rocks were much enjoyed.