Episode 239

What makes a telescope truly exceptional?

Is it aperture… optics… craftsmanship… or something more?

And in a time when technology is rapidly changing how we explore the night sky—from smart telescopes to AI-assisted imaging—where does the future of amateur astronomy really lie?

Today, we’re going to explore that question with someone who has spent decades building precision instruments for observers who demand the very best.

I’m excited to welcome Vic Maris, founder of Stellarvue—a company well known in the amateur astronomy community for producing high-quality refractors and precision optical systems.

Vic has built Stellarvue around a philosophy that emphasizes craftsmanship, rigorous optical testing, and delivering instruments that meet the expectations of serious observers and imagers alike.

In this episode, we’re going to talk about the story behind Stellarvue, what it takes to build premium telescopes in today’s market, and how advances in technology are reshaping the way we observe the night sky.

We’ll also get Vic’s perspective on where amateur astronomy is headed—what excites him, what concerns him, and what advice he has for the next generation of observers.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy my conversation with Vic Maris.

You can contact Vic at:

Stellarvue website:

https://www.stellarvue.com/

For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at:

www.alpo-astronomy.org/

You can also support this podcast at Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook

Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud:

https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook

Subscribe on our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers

Subscribe on iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2

I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook.

Our Patreons:

Jerry White

Jason Inman

Bob Lunsford

Steve Seidentop

Stephen Bennett

Michael Moyer

Shawn Dilles

Damian Allis

Carl Hergenrother

Michael McShan

Michael Blake

Nick Evetts

Stan Sienkiewicz

John Rogers

Jim McCarthy

Stanley McMahan

Ken Poshedly

“From Stargazing to Science” feels like an anthem for the modern amateur astronomer — especially for the mission of the Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers.

The song carries a cinematic, inspirational tone. It starts with the wonder of looking up at the night sky — telescopes in backyards, people gathered under stars, the excitement of seeing Saturn’s rings or the craters of the Moon for the first time. The early verses have a sense of curiosity and discovery, capturing the emotional side of astronomy: the awe, imagination, and personal connection to the cosmos.

As the song builds, it transitions from simple observing into something deeper: contribution. The chorus represents the idea that everyday observers can become part of real scientific work. It celebrates how sketches, images, measurements, and observations made by amateurs can contribute to planetary science and the scientific record. That’s the heart of the phrase “From Stargazing to Science.”

Episode 238

Welcome to The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers — where we explore the Solar System and beyond, from Stargazing to Science.

I’m your host, Tim Robertson, and today we’re diving into one of the best times of year for meteor observing — summertime meteor showers.

Joining me is longtime meteor observer and expert Bob Lunsford. Bob has spent decades monitoring meteor activity and helping observers understand what’s happening in our skies each month. Tonight we’ll talk about the major summer meteor showers, what to expect this year, how to observe meteors effectively, and how amateurs can contribute meaningful scientific observations.

If you enjoy meteor watching — or want to learn how to get started — this episode is for you.

You can contact Bob at:

For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at:

www.alpo-astronomy.org/

You can also support this podcast at Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook

Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud:

https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook

Subscribe on our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers

Subscribe on iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2

I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook.

Our Patreons:

Jerry White

Jason Inman

Bob Lunsford

Steve Seidentop

Stephen Bennett

Michael Moyer

Shawn Dilles

Damian Allis

Carl Hergenrother

Michael McShan

Michael Blake

Nick Evetts

Stan Sienkiewicz

Carl Hergenrother

Stan Sienkiewicz

John Rogers

Jim McCarthy

Stanley McMahan

Ken Poshedly

Episode 237

Tonight on The Observers Notebook, we welcome one of the most recognizable voices in astronomy and science communication. He’s an astronomer, author, eclipse chaser, skeptic, educator, and the creator of the legendary Bad Astronomy blog and book series — Phil Plait.

From debunking myths and conspiracy theories to helping the public better understand the universe and the scientific process itself, Phil has spent decades making astronomy accessible, entertaining, and incredibly relevant. Whether discussing eclipses, space exploration, misinformation, or the sheer wonder of the cosmos, he brings a unique mix of expertise, humor, and passion that has inspired millions.

Tonight we’re going to talk about astronomy in 2026, science communication in the social media age, total solar eclipses, planetary exploration, and why curiosity and critical thinking matter now more than ever.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy this conversation with Phil Plait.

You can contact Phil at:

The Bad Astronomy newsletter

https://badastronomy.beehiiv.com/

For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at:

www.alpo-astronomy.org/

You can also support this podcast at Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook

Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud:

https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook

Subscribe on our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers

Subscribe on iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2

I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook.

Our Patreons:

Jerry White

Jason Inman

Bob Lunsford

Steve Seidentop

Stephen Bennett

Michael Moyer

Shawn Dilles

Damian Allis

Carl Hergenrother

Michael McShan

Michael Blake

Nick Evetts

Stan Sienkiewicz

Carl Hergenrother

Stan Sienkiewicz

John Rogers

Jim McCarthy

Stanley McMahan

Ken Poshedly

Episode 236

Tonight on The Observers Notebook — one of the most respected planetary imagers in the world joins us. From capturing incredible detail on Jupiter and Saturn to contributing observations used by professional astronomers and spacecraft teams, Christopher Go has helped redefine what amateur astronomers can accomplish. We’ll talk imaging techniques, atmospheric discoveries, equipment, processing, and what it takes to consistently produce world-class planetary images.

You can contact Christopher at:

For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at:

www.alpo-astronomy.org/

You can also support this podcast at Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook

Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud:

https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook

Subscribe on our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers

Subscribe on iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2

I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook.

Our Patreons:

Jerry White

Jason Inman

Bob Lunsford

Steve Seidentop

Stephen Bennett

Michael Moyer

Shawn Dilles

Damian Allis

Carl Hergenrother

Michael McShan

Michael Blake

Nick Evetts

Stan Sienkiewicz

Carl Hergenrother

Stan Sienkiewicz

John Rogers

Jim McCarthy

Stanley McMahan

Ken Poshedly

Episode 236

Hello and welcome to The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers.

I’m your host, Tim Robertson.

Today’s episode is a little different—we’re going to take a step back and talk about where ALPO is right now, and more importantly, where we’re headed. Over the past year, we’ve been getting out into the community more than ever—through events like the American Astronomical Society meeting and the Northeast Astronomy Forum—and building new relationships across the astronomy world, including conversations with Sky & Telescope.

What we’re seeing is exciting—more visibility, more engagement, and a growing awareness of what ALPO brings to the table.

Joining me today is someone who’s been thinking a lot about how we tell that story—the ALPO Communications and Marketing guy, Ron May.

Ron and I are going to talk about how ALPO is building its voice, how we’re growing our presence, and why the real strength of this organization has always been—and continues to be—the people behind it.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy this conversation with Ron May.

You can contact Ron at:

For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at:

www.alpo-astronomy.org/

You can also support this podcast at Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook

Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud:

https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook

Subscribe on our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers

Subscribe on iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2

I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook.

Our Patreons:

Jerry White

Jason Inman

Bob Lunsford

Steve Seidentop

Stephen Bennett

Michael Moyer

Shawn Dilles

Damian Allis

Carl Hergenrother

Michael McShan

Michael Blake

Nick Evetts

Stan Sienkiewicz

John Rogers

Jim McCarthy

Stanley McMahan

Ken Poshedly

Episode 234

Welcome to The Observers Notebook, the official podcast of the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers.

I’m your host, Tim Robertson, Executive Director of the ALPO, and this podcast is dedicated to visual observing, scientific contribution, and the art of truly seeing what’s at the eyepiece.

Today we’re focusing on one of the oldest and most powerful observing techniques in astronomy — drawing what you see.

In an age of high-speed cameras and stacked digital images, there is still something profoundly powerful about sitting at the telescope and translating light and shadow onto paper. Lunar sketching forces you to slow down, to notice subtle tonal gradients, crater wall structure, rilles, domes, and the delicate contrast along the terminator.

My guest today is lunar artist Mary McIntyre, whose detailed and atmospheric sketches of the Moon have inspired observers across social media and astronomy groups. Her work beautifully bridges art and scientific observation — reminding us that drawing is not just artistic expression, but a powerful tool for improving observational skill.

Today we’ll talk about her journey into lunar observing, her process at the eyepiece, the tools she uses, and why sketching the Moon may be one of the best ways to become a better observer.

Mary, welcome to The Observers Notebook.

You can contact Mary McIntyre at:

Mary McIntyre FRAS

www.marymcintyreastronomy.co.uk

For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at:

www.alpo-astronomy.org/

You can also support this podcast at Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook

Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud:

https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook

Subscribe on our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers

Subscribe on iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2

I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook.

Our Patreons:

Jerry White

Jason Inman

Bob Lunsford

Steve Seidentop

Stephen Bennett

Michael Moyer

Shawn Dilles

Damian Allis

Carl Hergenrother

Michael McShan

Michael Blake

Nick Evetts

Stan Sienkiewicz

Carl Hergenrother

Stan Sienkiewicz

John Rogers

Jim McCarthy

Stanley McMahan

Ken Poshedly

Episode 233

Welcome back to The Observers Notebook Podcast. I’m your host, Tim Robertson.

Today’s guest is someone many of you already know by name, even if you’ve never had the chance to hear his story told in his own words. Joining me is Bob Garfinkle, a longtime member of the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers and a respected voice in amateur astronomy.

Bob is widely known as the author of Star-Hopping: Your Visa to Viewing the Universe, a book that has guided countless observers—especially beginners—through the night sky with clarity, patience, and enthusiasm. Beyond that, he is an independent scholar in the history of astronomy, a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, and a longtime contributor to the astronomical literature. Within the ALPO, Bob has served as Book Review Editor for the Journal of the ALPO, helping observers navigate the ever-growing world of astronomy resources.

But what makes Bob especially interesting is not just what he’s done, but how he thinks about observing. He brings a deep appreciation for visual observing, historical context, and the role that careful, dedicated amateurs continue to play in real scientific contribution—something that aligns perfectly with the mission of the ALPO.

In today’s conversation, we’ll talk about Bob’s journey into astronomy, his work with the ALPO, the art of star-hopping and observing, how amateur astronomy has changed—and how it hasn’t—and why organizations like the ALPO remain more important than ever.

So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and join me for a thoughtful and engaging conversation with Bob Garfinkle.

You can contact Bob Garfinkle at:

For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at:

www.alpo-astronomy.org/

You can also support this podcast at Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook

Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud:

https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook

Subscribe on our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers

Subscribe on iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2

I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook.

Our Patreons:

Jerry White

Jason Inman

Bob Lunsford

Steve Seidentop

Stephen Bennett

Michael Moyer

Shawn Dilles

Damian Allis

Carl Hergenrother

Michael McShan

Michael Blake

Nick Evetts

Stan Sienkiewicz

Carl Hergenrother

Stan Sienkiewicz

John Rogers

Jim McCarthy

Stanley McMahan

Episode 232

Welcome to The Observer’s Notebook, the podcast that explores the art, science, and experience of visual astronomy. I’m your host, Tim Robertson.

In this episode we’re diving into a topic that every planetary observer wrestles with sooner or later seeing and transparency. We hear those terms all the time, but understanding the difference between them, and knowing how they affect what we see at the eyepiece, can be the difference between a frustrating night and an unforgettable one.

My guest today is Daniel Mounsey, known to many of you as Dr. D. works at Woodland Hills Camera and is widely respected for his deep experience at the eyepiece and his ability to teach observers how to truly learn to see. He’s someone who reminds us that great planetary observing isn’t about chasing equipment or perfect conditions—it’s about patience, perception, and understanding the atmosphere above us.

In this episode, we’ll talk about what good seeing really looks like, how transparency fits into planetary observing, and even how famous illusions like the canals of Mars teach us important lessons about human perception at the eyepiece.

So settle in, grab a cup of coffee, and join us as we explore how the atmosphere—and our own eyes—shape the planetary views we love.

You can contact David at:

Woodland Hills Camera

https://telescopes.net/

For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at:

www.alpo-astronomy.org/

You can also support this podcast at Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook

Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud:

https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook

Subscribe on our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers

Subscribe on iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2

I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook.

Our Patreons:

Jerry White

Jason Inman

Bob Lunsford

Steve Seidentop

Stephen Bennett

Michael Moyer

Shawn Dilles

Damian Allis

Carl Hergenrother

Michael McShan

Michael Blake

Nick Evetts

Stan Sienkiewicz

Carl Hergenrother

Stan Sienkiewicz

John Rogers

Jim McCarthy

Stanley McMahan

Episode 231

Every April, Earth plows through a stream of ancient comet dust, and for a few nights, the sky answers back with streaks of light we call the Lyrids.

They’re one of the oldest recorded meteor showers in human history—seen by skywatchers more than 2,600 years ago—and yet every year they still manage to surprise us. Sometimes gentle and subtle… sometimes bursting with bright fireballs that stop you in your tracks.

Tonight, we’re going to talk about what makes the Lyrid Meteor Shower special, how to observe it, and why it still matters to both casual stargazers and serious observers.

My guest is Bob Lunsford, a leading voice in meteor science and observing, whose work has helped countless observers understand what’s really happening when we look up and see a shooting star.

Whether you’re stepping outside for your very first meteor shower or you’ve spent decades under the night sky, this is one you won’t want to miss.

I’m Tim Robertson, and this is The Observers Notebook.

You can contact Bob Lunsford at:

For more information you can visit the ALPO web site at:

www.alpo-astronomy.org/

You can also support this podcast at Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/ObserversNotebook

Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud:

https://soundcloud.com/observersnotebook

Subscribe on our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/AssociationofLunarandPlanetaryObservers

Subscribe on iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/observers-notebook-the-alpo-podcast/id1199301885?mt=2

I want to thank the Producers of this podcast, Steve Siedentop and Michael Moyer for their generous support of the Observers Notebook.

Our Patreons:

Jerry White

Jason Inman

Bob Lunsford

Steve Seidentop

Stephen Bennett

Michael Moyer

Shawn Dilles

Damian Allis

Carl Hergenrother

Michael McShan

Michael Blake

Nick Evetts

Stan Sienkiewicz

Carl Hergenrother

Stan Sienkiewicz

John Rogers

Jim McCarthy

Stanley McMahan