by Gene Allen, Secretary

Director Rex Parker convened the meeting at 1930 on Zoom due to inclement weather. He presented an outline of topics for the meeting that will follow the speaker.

At 1940 Program Chair Victor Davis introduced speaker Joseph DePasquale, and his presentation Unfolding the Infrared Universe with the James Webb Space Telescope. He is the Senior Science Visuals Developer in the Office of Public Outreach at the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore, Maryland. He had wanted to drive up and address us in person, and hopes to be able to do so in the future. A question period followed the talk.

NOTE: The recording of this and other AAAP talks can be found on the AAAP YouTube page.

There were 79 logged in on Zoom during the talk.

Following a break, the meeting was reconvened at 2105 with an Un-Journal presentation by Director Rex Parker about the science and imaging of planetary nebulas.

Observatory Co-Chair Dave Skitt reported the preparations being made for reopening the observatory next month. Two 2’x4’ folding tables have been purchased to hold literature on public nights, so no one need bring them each month. Acquisition of benches is still under investigation, as is professional installation of carpet.

Mention was made of the upcoming astronomy fairs NEAIC on April 13-14 and NEAF on April 15-16. They are the world’s largest and should be experienced, even if one can manage keep the wallet securely in place.

Appreciation of the Astrovideo Live presentations was repeated along with the hope that one could be planned for March 24. It might provide an opportunity to view a selection of planetary nebulas.

Members were reminded that they can request to have the observatory opened for them on other than a public night. Obviously, our ability to meet the request depends on the availability of Keyholders to operate the telescopes.

There is still no response from the Washington Crossing State Park about making long overdue repairs to the gates and the shameful condition of our entrance road.

Merchandise Facilitator Rich Sherman is continuing his investigation into another vendor which can provide an expanded line of AAAP store items.

The meeting was adjourned at 2210.

Our membership currently numbers 206. 20 have joined so far in 2023. We have had 31 renew while 8 have allowed their membership to expire, giving us a 79% retention rate.