by Surabhi Agarwal

Dear Members,

Wishing you all a very Happy New Year filled with clear skies and celestial wonders! As we embark on another year of exploration and discovery, I’m thrilled to welcome Abhinav Sukla as our new student editor. He brings fresh energy and enthusiasm to Sidereal Times, and we look forward to his contributions.

At the same time, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our outgoing student editor, Yugandhara Luthra, for her dedication and hard work. Her contributions have enriched our magazine and inspired our members. We wish her every success in her further studies in astrophysics and look forward to seeing her achievements in the field. Perhaps, in a couple of years, we should invite her back to the club to share her journey and insights with us in a talk!

As we look to the skies, it’s vital to remember the challenges here on Earth, particularly the imminent threat of climate change. Each of us can take small yet impactful steps to mitigate its effects, starting in our own homes and backyards. Planting native flowers, trees, and bushes not only enhances biodiversity but also provides crucial support for local fauna, including pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. Together, let’s do our part to preserve and protect our planet while we continue to explore the wonders beyond it.

I would also like to share details I received in an email to the editors about a fantastic getaway cabin in Livingston Manor, NY. The destination features Bortle Class 3 skies, with minimal light pollution. It promises to offer an exceptional stargazing experience with spacious grounds for setting up telescopes and other equipment. The name of the place is Amber Lake Chalet.

Here’s to a year of growth, collaboration, and unforgettable nights under the stars.