Announcement - J65

Folks - this was a little out the blue for me and pretty much unexpected.

Since I started seriously getting into astronomy (there's only so much cash you have as a teenager) and investing in the kit, I've had pretty clear goals in mind.

Since the end of last year I finally got all the various bits and pieces working in harmony - software, hardware and me So my goal of starting my astrometry (precise positioning of celestial objects) work was ready to start. Of course, the weather in January and February conspired against me but March was kinder.

So, I started taking measurements and have just submitted my first observation report to the IAU Minor Planet Center.

By return, I was informed tonight that I have been issued with an observatory code. So, the Celbridge Observatory (not very imaginative I know...) is now officially called J65.

As far as I know, there are only two other coded observatories in Ireland - Dunsink and Armagh. And the IAU have just confirmed that this is the first amateur site in Ireland.

Rather than do the Oscar's thing, I'd just say that the folks on these boards have been instrumental in getting me to this point and I'd just like to say thanks.

All the best

Dave McDonald
J65 - Celbridge Observatory

Congratulations Dave

I know from the amount of work that you put in that this is greatly deserved.
Well done and keep up the good work.

Regards and clear skies

Johnno

Congratulation

Way to go Dave !

Congrats Dave thats brilliant news. Well deserved.

No stop wasting time on these boards and go out imaging in the rain, you slacker!

Dave,
Many congrats!
Could you perhaps elaborate on what was involved in recording these observations and submitting them?
Cheers,