IFAS Astronomer of the Year 2009

2009 may be a year many of us want firmly in the distance but it has been a good year for Irish Astronomy and astronomy worldwide.

As IYA2009 draws to a close, there are many more projects in the pipeline to continue the drive to engage ordinary people in an appreciation of the universe.

Of course, this also the time of year when we honour one (or more) amongst us who has made a significant contribution to Amateur Astronomy over the last 12 months. As such, the award is a peer recognition and the prize is the respect of fellow astronomers and friends on the IFAS boards.

The voting this year was tight with a good few nominations which itself is very encouraging. But there can only be one winner

For his contributions to these boards, for organising Solarfest, the Astrophotography Workshop, for his services as past chair of IFAS and generally being a good egg, Michael O'Connell is the IFAS Astronomer of the Year 2009!

Congratulations Michael!

On a personal note, Michael is very generous with his time, never too busy to lend a hand and especially good at describing his projects for the benefit of all. A very worthy winner.

Dave

Congratulations Michael, well done.

Michael.

Great stuff Michael , onwards and onwards , many congratulations
and best wishes for the New Year.

Deirdre Kelleghan
Vice Char IFAS
Outreach IFAS
www.irishastronomy.org/
www.deirdrekelleghan.com/
twitter.com/skysketcher

Dont forget - winner of the solar system section of
The Astrophotograpger of the year!
Well done Michael.

Well done!

Thanks for all your help with the Light Pollution Symposium!

Well done Michael !!