A true melding of amateur radio/amateur astronomy has several real-time advantages, in coordination for variable star observing; meteor showers; supernova patrols. etc. In particular, coordination on supernova discovery in real-time is especially interesting: the faster you confirm that info and get it out there, the more of the light curve-- and thus the physics--the astronomers can capture. An unexpectedly useful aspect, apropos 2020, is the ability to discount transient events as satellite glints. One measurement may mimic a rapid astronomical event, while a concurrent observation(s) from a distance , if not seen, verifies this as a sat. glint (specular reflection of sunlight off a satellite). There have been many astronomy NETS over the last 60 years, and of course, the internet. Coordination is the key factor in offering something new and discover-able--if desired. 73 Chip W1YW
SpaceX’s satellites are messing up astronomers’ observations. It’s just the beginning. https://www.vox.com/science-and-health/2020/1/7/21003272/space-x-starlink-astronomy-light-pollution
Definitely an issue--not limited to SpaceX BTW-- which is why among other reasons, these real-time call-outs on glints help everyone. It would be unfortunate if future cosmic transients are ignored because of assumed sat glints instead. The SpaceX sats have few glints but are continuously reflective, for the most part. And they move. So they are easy to see (unfortunately) and will have to be edited out from any digital time exposure:-(
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” ― Ferris Bueller
The idea of sandwiching the Amateur radio & Amateur Astronomy is superb. I tried to do such an activity in India. I tried calling amateur radio enthusiasts who are also in astronomy on Sunday evening but not a good response. I will try again. Best luck with the NC group. DATTA VU2DSI.
