Astronomy Talk: The Story of Radio Astronomy by James Fradgley

Date: Friday 24th November 2023 Time: 19:00 (note earlier start time than usual!)

Venue: Newchurch Pavilion (next to the observatory) Watery Lane, Newchurch, Isle of Wight and the closest postcode is PO36 0LX

About the Talk:

James' presentation on The History of Radio Astronomy will cover: • Pre-war history - Jansky and other early pioneers • Jodrell Bank and the Cambridge group - Lovell, Hey and Ryle's developments • Interferometry - Techniques used to improve resolving power • CMB radiation - Its discovery. What is it? Where we are now • Pulsars and Quasars - Their detection; what they are; blazars; active galactic nuclei • Radio Galaxies - What sort of galaxy are they? Structure of radio emission • 21 cm hydrogen line - What we learn from the study of neutral hydrogen

About the speaker:

James Fradgley has a background in physics and astronomy. After an unrelated career he has returned to astronomy in his retirement. He is an experienced speaker who has previously brought several memorable talks to the Isle of Wight, all packed with information. He has served as Chair of the Southern Area Group of Astronomical Societies (SAGAS) as well as having roles in several other groups. James is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society.

FOLLOWED BY: Beginner's Course in Astronomy: Tutorial 1 - "What is Astronomy?" The first in a series of introductory presentations will cover: • An introduction to some of the terms used • Ideas about distance and time • Atmosphere, temperature and light • The Solar System: planets, moons and the Sun • Practical ways to observe objects in our Solar System.

The Vectis Astronomical Society (http://www.wightstronomy.org) meets on the 4th Friday of every month, except for December. The talks are open for non-members to attend. We have a suggested donation of £2.50 for non-members of VAS. The speakers come from all over the country and give a presentation for around 45 minutes, with a chance for questions and answers afterwards.

This presentation will be given in person, but do note that some VAS events will NOT be at the Newchurch observatory site, but will be conducted over Zoom. Please see the calendar on our website for details.