PROPELLING ASTRONOMY EDUCATION TOWARD THE ACHIEVEMENT OF SCIENTIFIC EXCELLENCE AMONG FILIPINOS
VOL.50 NO.92
THE APPULSE
SPACE NEWS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2017
Space News for the First Quarter of 2017 By Pecier C. Decierdo Science Education Officer The Mind Museum
NASA announced the discovery of 7 Earth-sized planets orbiting the same star In what has now become their signature style for announcing major discoveries, the NationalAeronauticsandSpaceAdministration(NASA) kept the world in suspense about a surprising find earlier this year. Their announcement, while not (yet) the discovery of alien life, did not disappoint. Last February, the space agency announced the discovery of 7 Earth-sized planets orbiting the same ultracool dwarf star. The announcement was made with the European Southern Observatory (ESO). ESO helps manage the Transiting Planets and Planetesimals Small Telescope (TRAPPIST) in Chile. The ultracool dwarf around which the planets were discovered was named Trappist-1. Three planets around Trappist-1 were discovered in 2015 using the telescope in Chile. Using the Spitzer Space Telescope, sci-
entists discovered 4 more planets, bringing the current total to a whopping 7 planets. All 7 planets orbiting Trappist-1 are around the same size as the Earth and are probably rocky like Earth or Mars instead of gaseous like Jupiter or Neptune. They all orbit around Trappist-1 in tight formation; the farthest of the planets, Trappist-1h, orbits its star at less than half the distance between the Sun and Mercury. Of the planets, 3 were determined to be in their parent star’s ‘habitable zone’, the zone around a star that is neither too hot nor too cold for liquid water. Later climate models have suggested that life in any of those planets is not very likely. At least for the kind of life we are familiar with on Earth. Because of the planets’ closeness to their star, they
are probably tidally locked. This means only one side of each plant faces their star, while the other side is in perpetual darkness. For many of them, their atmospheres are alsoprobably blown away by the nearby star’s radiation. Still, this does not damped scientists’ excitement. Even with the slim chance of discovering life as we know it in them, scientists are looking at the possibility of analyzing the atmosphere of the Trappist-1 planets in the near future. The incoming James Web Space Telescope also promises to increase the number of such discoveries in a couple of years. The main lesson that a system with 7 Earthsized planets teaches us is that there is probably an abundance of terrestrial planets out there. This encourages scientist to keep on looking.
China plans to send people to the Moon in the next decade The next decade might see a second space race. New players, from developing countries to private companies, are now joining old timers USA and Russia in exploring the final frontier. And the race might have just gotten tighter after China announced its plans to send people to the Moon by the 2020s.
China’s space ambitions put positive pressure on the US, which in 2015 announced plans to send a human crew to the Moon by 2023. NASA’s plan of sending humans to the Moon also serves as a test for Orion, the capsule many hope would be the first to carry a human crew to Mars.
China announced plans of developing a spacecraft that can reach low-Earth orbit, land on the Moon, return crew back to Earth, and be recoverable. The aim of this project is to launch a crewed mission to the Moon by the next decade.
Despite its late arrival into the game—they launched their first crewed mission in 2003 —China has established itself as a major player in space. As of early this year, China has accomplished 22 rocket launches. That is equal to the US’s and is already more than Russia’s.
Law requires NASA to send humans to Mars by the 2030s The United States Congress has recently passed a law that makes it NASA’s task to send humans to Mars by the 2030s. The NASA Authorization Act of 2017 gives NASA the mandate to launch a human crew to the Red Planet two decades from now, making it a focal-point of the space agency’s long term plans. The letter of the law states that NASA must get humans “near or on the surface of Mars in the 2030s.” The bill, which has passed both the US House of Representatives and the US Senate, will probably be signed by the Trump administration into law.
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The bill includes a mandate for NASA to develop “an initial human exploration roadmap”by December of this year. The roadmap will outline the steps that will eventually lead to a successful crewed mission to Mars. These steps include tests in low-Earth orbit, and maneuvers in cis-lunar and sub-lunar spaces. Even NASA’s planned Orion program to send astronauts to lunar orbit can be now seen as a step in the long-term plan of going to the Red Planet. The bill states that the big goal of the space agency is to make humans a multi-planet species. This is something that many advocates of space travel have been clamoring for all this time.
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SPACE NEWS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2017 Musk mentioned that SpaceX has been approached to send two passengers to go to the Moon and back late next year. The passengers, Musk noted, have “already paid a significant deposit” to finance the mission.
SpaceX announced plans to send private passengers to the Moon next year
SpaceX has released some details of the timeline for the mission, including health and fitness tests for the passengers sometime soon, followed by initial training sessions later this year once the passengers are declared fit for spaceflight. SpaceX and Musk plan to get ready for the mission by launching the Crew Dragon (the updated version of their earlier Dragon spacecraft) on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS) without people on board. A crewed mission to the ISS is scheduled to follow in the first half of 2018.
Earlier this year Elon Musk, founder and CEO of private spaceflight company SpaceX, announced his company’s plans to send two private citizens to lunar orbit in 2018. If the mission succeeds, the private citizens will be the first to enter sub-lunar space in more than 45 years!
This planned mission by SpaceX and Musk is just part of their bigger goal to send humans to Mars in the next decade. Many experts see Musk’s timeline for both the Moon and Mars missions to be so tight it verges on being hasty. Many are even skeptical Musk and SpaceX will be able to follow their own very ambitious timeline. Looking at the record of SpaceX, this prediction is not unreasonable. The private spaceflight company and its CEO have laid ambitious plans in the past that they were not able to meet on schedule. However, SpaceX were able to do everything they promised to do. This bodes well for their promise to send private citizens to the Moon and then, sometime later, to the Red Planet.
If all goes well, the private citizens will be sent to a trajectory for lunar orbit in the latter part of next year.
India’s space agency sets the record by launching 104 satellites aboard one rocket The PSLV also carried 101 international nanosatellites (also called ‘nanosats’), weighing a total of more than 660 kg. The nanosats, along with Cartosat-2, were successfully deployed in their intended orbits. The record-breaking launch could bring down the cost of sending satellites to space by showing that a cost-effective launching of many satellites in one go is possible. ISRO’s ambitious launch is made possible thanks to the reliability of its PSLV rockets, which are among the most reliable in the world based on their rate of successful launches. Because of this launch and PSLV’s track record, ISRO can offer sending payload to Earth-orbit for a very relatively small amount.
The PSLV’s main payload during the record-setting launch was India’s Cartosat-2. The 714-kg satellite was sent to Earth-orbit for the purposes of Earth observation. Upon releasing Cartosat-2 in orbit, PSLV released two Indian ‘nanosatellites’, INS-1A and INS-1B. Nano satellites are small satellites that weigh somewhere between 1 and 10 kg.
India’s success in spaceflight serves as an inspiration not only to young Indians who aspire to become scientists and engineers, but also to other developing countries who hope to use space technology to solve their Earth-bound problems.
THE APPULSE STAFF Lanz Anthonee Lagman
CORRESPONDENTS
CONTRIBUTORS
Editor-in-Chief
Abdur Rahman Alindao
Pecier Decierdo
Jan Marvin Goh
Almirah Tabao Amin
Arthel Gavino
Assistant Editor
Christian Dave de Leon Contributing Editor
Angelica Y. Yang Consultant
Rachel Sta. Iglesia Engr. Ronald Tanco Edwin Tolentino Maria Sobina Yu Grant 3
Celline Andrea Hilario Reinabelle Reyes LAYOUT ARTIST
Al Auacay
ASSISTANT LAYOUT ARTIST
Denise Valentino
THE APPULSE
EDITORIAL
NAW We Move Forward
By Lanz Anthonee Lagman Member, RTU Astronomy Society
Last February at its third week, the Philippine Astronomical Society, together with other astronomical societies throughout our country, celebrated the National Astronomy Week with the hopes of inspiring fellow Filipinos to learn more about the wonders of our cosmos. Each society exerted a lot of effort for their own creative themes and methods for engaging the public. In a land where poverty, crime and corruption is still high, what benefit would the study and appreciation of astronomy bring? For starters, methods that we use to study what’s up there would be unbelievably useful for solving our problems down here. Techniques used to analyze stars and black holes are also effective in detecting tumors. The GPS that we use when we’re lost somewhere in the middle of the forests operate based on the principles that describe how massive objects such as stars and black holes warp the space around them. Our beloved rubber shoes that we use in running or playing basketball were vastly improved by NASA technology first applied to astronaut shoes. These benefits are just some of the broad ones. The direct benefits of space technology for our country are more profound mainly due to how much we need them right now. How do we monitor lands ravaged by irresponsible miners and illegal loggers; seas and air damaged by pollution; storms that could and have killed thousands of our countrymen; and our territories forcefully grabbed by a powerful nation? Having our own satellites is a great leap forward. Fortunately for us Filipinos, we will soon have our own Philippine Space Agency and the small steps necessary for its establishment are slowly being done. Besides from being related to astronomy, what’s common between celebrating the National Astronomy Week and the careful establishment of the Philippine Space Agency? Both of these need successful and efficient cooperation. By settling individual differences in the name of doing what is the best for everyone, everyone will prosper. Similar to these two, the initial and required continuous success of the newly-established Appulse team is the direct result of how we clearly communicated, planned and understood each other. When unity is achieved through these, only then we could say that now, we move forward.
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ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
Activities of the Philippine Astronomical Society
our collective efforts in spreading astronomy education to everyone
January Events
Stargazing Under the Blue Skies of Ateneo de Manila Grade School
By Arthel Gavino Teacher, Ateneo de Manila Grade School
Last January 14, 2017, a great Saturday evening, a stargazing event entitled Underneath the Stars was held at the roof deck of Manila Observatory. The event was organized by the AstroBlu Club of Ateneo de Manila University-Grade School department led by Ms. Elora Marie Arthel Gavino, the Club Moderator. It was a beautiful night for the pupils of Ateneo Grade School—AstroBlu, along with their families to enjoy the night skies and the stars. The invited guest speaker was Mr. Ronald Tanco, a board member of Philippine Astronomical Society. Mr. Tanco prepared four types of telescope for us so that the kids may experience how to use it. They were very amazed by the lecturer’s remarkable knowledge about the different constellations that can be seen during the 7 o’clock up to 9 o’clock observations. There were as follows: Cassiopeia, Perseus, Canis Major, Canis Minor, Andromeda, Pegasus, and Orion’s Belt. An in addition to that, the brightest object that the pupils first thought was also a star but they were wrong, it was Venus. The parents also shared their ideas to the lecturer. Ms. Genie Lorenzo, one of the Research Associate inside Manila Observatory, also came along and imparted her understandings regarding constellations. To top it all, it was a priceless treasure to see your pupils that they will never forgettheawe-inspiringexperiencetogetherwith their families.
(From left to right: Ms. Genie Lorenzo; Ms. Majeah Suazo Collado, Xavier University ECE Dept. Chair; Ms. Cecile Africa, Ms. Arthel Gavino, Mr. Ronald Tanco and Mr. Rommel Alindao)
Thank you so much for all the help and participation especially to Mr. Jervy M. Robles, Asst. Headmaster for Student Affairs of AGS for approving and giving us the permission to push through this event, Mrs. Noemi Blanco, Students Activities Coordinator, Mr. Ronald Tanco, Mr. Antonio La Viña, Director of Manila Observatory, for approving our request to utilized the roof deck, Mr. Angelo Carpio, Mrs. Fely Dano and also to the facilitators, Mr. Rommel Alindao, Ms. Cecile Africa and Mr. Jayson Milliones. God Bless!
Kids bonding with their parents
Lining up for taking a peek to the stars using a telescope
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ORG NEWS ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
LPU- Cavite holds its First Astronomical Forum
By Abdur Rahman Alindao Educator, Islamic Studies, Call and Guidance School
Participants group together in front of the statue of Jose P. Laurel for the group picture. Image courtesy of Mr. Christopher Malay
The SipAg (Sipnayan at Agham), the official Math and Science Club of LPU International High School - Cavite in cooperation with the Philippine Astronomical Society Inc. (PAS) held its First Astronomical Forum last January 21, 2017 at the University Auditorium of the Lyceum of the Philippines, Cavite. Before the start of the lecture series, videos about stargazing camp activities of PAS were flashed on the screen to give the participants an idea of its goals and objectives in propelling astronomy education to the public. The 1st topic entitled “Light Matters: The Materials Science of Harnessing Starlight” was delivered by Mr. Rafael Jumar A. Chu, an alumnus of Ateneo de Manila University and committee head of Research and Development of PAS. The first topic focused all about light: on its nature, its uses and how it can be harnessed. The 2nd topic was entitled “Anatomy of Geologic Activities and Climate Change”, which discussed all about stars, their anatomy, the different processes they undergo, and how they could affect planet Earth. The second topic was delivered by Engr. Camilo G. Dacanay, a member of the board of directors of PAS. At the end of the lecture forum, an open forum was conducted for the participants to ask the resource speakers about their queries on the related topics given. Before the event ended, Mr. Christopher Malay, the master of the ceremony, asked questions to the participants and gave prizes to those who answered the questions correctly.
Mr. Rafael Chu conducts his lecture. Image courtesy of Mrs. Dess Castillo
The event concluded with a group picture with all the PAS members, resource speakers, and the participants from different schools. Indeed, this month’s lecture forum was a worthwhile learning experience that enriched our minds more about astronomy.
Some of the PAS members, along with the PAS officers and resource speakers had a group picture for the last time before leaving the campus.
PAS members, officers and resource speakers group picture with the organizers/ facilitators of the forum.
Engr. Dacanay answers the questions of the participants. Image courtesy of Mr. Christopher Malay
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February Events
PAS Conducts
February 2017 Overnight Stargazing Camp at Big Handy’s Grounds
By Grant Member, UP Diliman Mountaineering Club
ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
Lecturers went on at full speed, passionately speaking about the sky from star trivia, space travel, jokes, the Mars mission, and terraforming planets, a plethora of universe conversations from astronomy to Sci-Fi took place. From around the grounds you could hear the giggles, soft conversations, and feel the spirit of excitement and awe in the air. If one got hungry from the stargazing they could go to the food stall to avail of hot coffee, hotdogs, siomai, and other snacks that would fill their stomach. Astrophotography was also taught to those who had cameras and tripods and wanted to capture the sky. There were a lot of activities to engage in that starry night. As the night went on people sat under the camp grounds to observe the sky and billions of stars. Come 4am as Scorpio started to rise, the Milky Way popped in and said a faint hello. It was definitely the highlight of the night being able to see the beautiful Milky Way. People stayed up and were awed by the falling meteors that appeared sporadically. As time passed, the night slowly turned into day and the stars disappeared and the light of the sun shone on the grounds.
Luna by Grant
Purple hour milky way by Evita Fernando
“Catch a falling star, sleep under a million stars, peek into the heavens through telescopes, listen to the astronomer-hobbyists as they tour you around the skies, bond with like minds and hearts.”
Last February 4 and 5, 2017, the regular PAS overnight stargazing camp was held at Big Handy’s Grounds. Over 400 people attendedthesaidevent.Filledwitheagercampers, 6 buses named after constellations travelled through Tanay to reach Big Handy’s. The group arrived around afternoon and set up their camp along the rolling hills of the grounds. Main tents were set up which included a food stall, merchandise stall which had PAS items, and first aid station. Camper’s tents were pitched, mats were laid down, and excitement ready for the sights to see as the day ended and night began.
Group Phoro by Direk Al Auacay
It was a night of clear skies, happy campers, good food, universe conversations, astronomy lectures, refueled passion and a whole lot of happiness. One of the realizations was that no matter how many times one observers the stars and the sky it will never fail to leave you in awe and make your heart feel full. People stretched and readied themselves after a night of wonder. There were sleepy bodies but full heart. The camp and tents were packed up and the campers descended from the grounds and walked to the buses waiting to take them home. Bringing home the wonderful experience that took place in their hearts, eagerly awaiting for the next stargazing camp. 5 billion star hotel by Grant
Stars slowly peered in and twinkled as the sky darkened with the lovely planet Venus shining in the early evening sky. Telescopes were set up and PAS lecturers and astronomy hobbyists started sharing their knowledge about the sky. Night went on and clouds stopped by from time to time and covered the sky. It was only until 1am when the sky started to completely clear up. The magic hour has finally begun. A multitude of stars scattered the night sky and popped up twinkling and blanketing everything up above. One could easily identify common constellations like Orion’s belt, the big dipper, Canis Major, and Gemini to name a few.
“The vastness is only bearable through love” by Grant
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ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
NAW EVENTS: A Summary
BSYA celebrates National Astronomy Week with PAS: A Summary
By Almirah Tabao Amin Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
In collaboration with the Philippine Astronomical Society (PAS), the Bedan Society for Young Astronomers (BSYA) celebrated the National Astronomy Week (NAW) last February 11, 13-17, 2017 at San Beda College Manila. With more than 20 schools officially registered as participants for the event, the event organizers were successful in administering activities and competitions such as astroquiz, youth video, astrophotography, and on the spot poster-making contest. Aiming to promote the love for the study of astronomy, there were several speakers who shared their knowledge with the young minds of today’s generation. To officially open the weeklong event, the twenty-two participating schools started by registering at Abbot Lopez Hall last February 11. The program began with a prayer, and then followed by specific instructions and guidelines to all the participating students in all the activities endorsed during the ceremony.
The two teams competing for championship
The questions raised started from easy, medium, up to hard. Students then were instructed to raise their answers by writing on an illustration board using a chalk Before the prices were awarded, Minerva Rañeses, a Mars One candidate, shared her thoughts on travelling and living permanently on Mars. After hours of competing, it was announced a tie. In order to decide for the true winning team, the two teams competed once more for the championships.
The activities started with the astroquiz eliminations round, with students given questionnaires and answer sheets to compete. Meanwhile, the other participating students for the on the spot poster-making contest started drawing art from their hands, made of passion and creativity, at Jubilee Garden. It was an open space to draw an inspiration from.
PARTICIPANTS – Students drawing art
After hours of waiting, the main organizers published the results of the top 14 schools for the championship rounds. The activity was conducted by flashing a question through a powerpoint presentation with choices to choose from.
Masters of Ceremony, Lars Michaelsen Salamante and Malaya Nicole Barba
Main host for the activity
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Some of the participating students as they take the quiz
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ORGSOCIETY NEWS ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL
Headed by the Philippine Astronomical Society’s President, Ms. Leah Villalon, the recognition and awarding ceremony for the participants of on the spot poster-making contest, youth video, astrophotography, and astroquiz was done to conclude the event. Students were given medals and trophies for their active participation, while judges were given certificates of recognition. Youth videos were also shown to be viewed by the audience.
The winner for the on the spot poster-making contest with its unique theme
Just some of the pictures taken during the recognition and awarding ceremony
To promote awareness of the National Astronomy Week, the BSYA team flaunts “Space Launch Vehicles of the World Exhibit” along the corridors of San Beda College Manila. This was held for two days
To further enlighten the students about the beginnings of astronomy, Pecier Decierdo conducted a brief lecture about its history. With a topic “Are We Going To Live In Mars?,” the lecture was held at Abbot Lopez Hall last Wednesday, February 15, 2017.
BSYA displays “Space Launch Vehicles of the World Exhibit” at the corridors of San Beda College Manila
Beginning with a little history about astronomy, Mr. Decierdo discusses about Mars’compatibility and possibility of being habitable
Mr. Decierdo engages an interactive discussion with the audience
PAS and BSYA members with the participants as they pose for a group photo
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ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
The lecture ended with a certificate given to Mr. Peter Decierdo by Ms. Leah Villalon of Philippine Astronomical Society with the President of BSYA, Angelica Tang and the club moderator, Prof. Jun Cajigal. Mr. Decierdo engages an interactive discussion with the audience
Mr. Decierdo answering questions raised during the Q&A portion
A group photo taken in conclusion of the program
No matter how exciting the event has been, all things must come to an end. To formally end the weeklong event, Christian Noel Cantero conducted a workshop about celestial navigation and telescope at the Conference Hall of San Beda College Manila.
President of the BSYA, Angelica Tang, gives an opening remark
Christian Noel Cantero discusses about origins of the stars
Audience listens as the speaker begins his talk
The event intended to have a stargazing activity as a closing ceremony for the NAW, but due to the light pollution of Metro Manila, it was not made possible. Clouds covered the skies, making it impossible to have a sight of the stars.
College students of San Beda College trying out the telescope
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Presidents of the PAS & BSYA pose for a picture
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Opening Day High School Students Battle Out for the 24th NAW Astroquiz
By Abdur Rahman Alindao Educator, Islamic Studies, Call and Guidance School
ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
The event is headed by its chairman/quizmaster, Mr. Leogiver Manosca together with the judges, Mr. Lanz A. Lagman, Mr. Rafael A. Chu, and Mr. Nico Mendoza. The astroquiz is composed of 2 rounds: 1st Round (Elimination Round- Written Phase), where the participants were given an allotted time of 1 ½ hrs to finish answering the 50-item exam and the 2nd Round (Final Round) which is divided into three (3) categories: Easy, Average, and Final Round. The top 10 schools which dominated the elimination round and advanced to final round were the following: Philippine Science High School (Team A); St. Jude Catholic School (Team A); Philippine Science High School (Team B); Manila Science High School (Team A); Tenajeros National High School (Team B); Pasay City West High School (Team A); Bagumbayan National High School (Team A); Sen. Renato “Compañero” Cayetano Memorial Science and Technology High School (Team A); Tenajeros National High School (Team A); and St. Stephen High School (Team A).
The Champion of the 24th NAW Astroquiz, Philippine Science High School (Team A) accepts their award. Images courtesy of Almirah Tabao Amin
The 1st Runner-up of the 24th NAW Astroquiz, St. Jude Catholic School (Team A) accepts their award. Images courtesy of Almirah Tabao Amin
The Philippine Astronomical Society, Inc. holds its opening of the weeklong celebration of the 24th National Astronomy Week from February 11-18 at San Beda College, Manila. Its first event/ competition after the opening ceremony is the High School Astroquiz with 21 schools and 143 participating students.
The quizmaster, Mr. Leogiver Mañosca discusses the mechanics of the astroquiz. Image courtesy of Almirah Tabao Amin
Clincher round between Philippine Science High School (Team A) and St. Jude Catholic School (Team A) Images courtesy of Almirah Tabao Amin
It was a tough and tight battle during the final round where Philippine Science High School (Team B) tied with St. Jude Catholic School (Team A) with a total of 13 points in the Easy Round. Manila Science High School (Team A) and Philippine Science High School (Team B) both gained their momentum as they tied with 24 points during the Average Round. The Final Round is a challenging round where participants had no given options and had to answer based on memory. St. Jude Catholic School (Team A) came out as the top scorer of the Final Round with 10 points which made them undergo the clincher round with Philippine Science High School (Team A). Both schools got a total score of 41 points followed by Manila Science High School (Team A).
The 2nd Runner-up of the 24th NAW Astroquiz, Manila Science High School (Team A) accepts their award. Images courtesy of Almirah Tabao Amin The 2nd Runner-up of the 24th NAW Astroquiz, Manila Science High School (Team A) accepts their award. Images courtesy of Almirah Tabao Amin
Participants read the questions carefully from the board. Images courtesy of Almirah Tabao Amin
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It was a heart pounding clincher round as the last year’s champion, St. Jude Catholic School had a neck to neck battle with Philippine Science High School (Team A). Both teams had their momentum when suddenly St. Jude Catholic School failed to answer correctly the 4th question about which kind of telescope is the Hubble Space Telescope. The astroquiz concluded with the top ranked schools where Philippine Science High School (Team A) emerged as the Champion followed by St. Jude Catholic School (Team A) and Manila Science High School (Team A) as the 2nd Runner up. The students from Philippine Science High School (Team A) were Thomas Spencer L. Balete, John Henry Marquez, Wendell Leonard P. Ong and Micoh Eliezer Valenzuela. From St. Jude Catholic School (Team A), the students were Curt Jeremy Bernardo, Lance Gabriel Chua, Adriel Jeremy Gaw and Maria Sobina Nessie Yu. Lastly, the students from Manila Science High School (Team A) were Mark Allen Facun, Allan Mesa Jr., Lejan Fernando Mojica and Angel Lourdes Zoleta.
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ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
to February 3, 2017, 8R in print and at least 8 megapixels in .jpg format, and either single image or stacked image of a single subject. Qualified participants were notified on February 7, 2017 to submit an 8R print of the processed photo of their entry that will be used as a basis for judgment. This will be displayed on the day of the competition itself.
Capturing the Cosmos Through Astrophotogrphy 3RD PLACE—by Jose Raphael A. Bumatay of Diliman Preparatory School
Aspiring participants were asked to submit a raw photo in any digital format, a processed image in .jpg, and a description of how the photo was made, including the gadgets used and the type of post processing done in the image, on or before February 4, 2017 through email. By Almirah Tabao Amin Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
The following conditions for each photo entry are as follows: must be original and taken by thestudent himself, taken from January 1, 2017
Aspiring participants were asked to submit a raw photo in any digital format, a processed image in .jpg, and a description of how the photo was made, including the gadgets used and the type of post processing done in the image, on or before February 4, 2017 through email. In celebration of the 24th National Astronomy Week, an astrophotography contest was held at San Beda College Manila last February 11, 2017, headed by chair Kashogi Astapan. The declared winners are from Diliman Preparatory School, Pasay City West High School, and Manila Science High School.
WINNER—by Mary Yuko E. Obayashi of Manila Science High School
The judges; Roland Roman Roldan, Nico Mendoza, and Erika Valdueza based their judgment on the criteria given which consists of the photo’s aesthetic merit, technical quality, and originality. In a final total of thirty points is a total of ten points for each criterion.
2ND PLACE—by Joseph Jeffrey B. Cherriguine of Pasay City West High School
On-the-spot Poster Making Contest
Having a tie for the third position, the judges eventually came to a decision to have a voting. This led to the final results of the competition. The declared winners were given a medal and a cash prize as recognition of their outstanding work. Merry Dan P. Navarro - Bayanan Elementary School (1st place); Stephanie Mae S. Macabeata Francisco Benitez Elementary School (2nd place); and Aimeeryle Franchescka D. Garcia - Francisco Benitez Elementary School (3rd place). The competition at the high school division was much more astounding since 67 students were aiming for the prizes. In the end, Harket Notavio of Buting Senior High School took home the 1st prize and Chester Aaron Sia of iAcademy and Jill Chloe Tolentino of Grace Christian College acquired 2nd and 3rd place respectively.
By Edwin Tolentino Designer, Sadicon Builders
For centuries, the night sky had been a fuel of inspiration for a plethora of artists. There are a number of times in history that the heavens were the catalyst for art; most of the architecture dating back 2000b.c. was built with the guidance of the movement of celestial objects. The starry Night, a 19th century masterpiece by Vincent Van Gogh was influenced by the dark night sky view from the artist’s asylum window. With the goal of igniting astronomical and scientific inspiration for young/ student artists, the Philippine Astronomical Society, together with Bedan Society of Young Astronomers organized the on-the spot poster making contest held at San Beda College Manila during the first day of the National Astronomy Week in February 11,2017.
“You are an aperture through which the universe is looking at and exploring itself.” -Alan Watts. Harket Notavio’s eyes was on the prize as he claimed the grand winner title for high school division and made Buting Senior High School proud with this captivating entry.
A total of 69 schools took part of the event, and 73 eager representatives both form elementary and high school level joined the competition which started at 9:00am - 11:30am. The judges thought long and hard on who to award the prizes for the theme “Technology as a tool for understanding life in the universe”. Prizes for Elementary division were awarded to
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All smiles for the young artists who claimed the prizes at the Elementary Division; (left to right) Ms. Maiolica Mendoza Gimotea (judge), third placer Aimeeryle Franchescka D. Garcia - Francisco Benitez Elementary School, second placer Stephanie Mae S. Macabeata - Francisco Benitez Elementary School, first placer Merry Dan P. Navarro - Bayanan Elementary School, and Mr. Bruno Exiomo (judge).
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ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
Art and Chill. Schoolmate participants gather in groups at the Sabbater Garden.
Coach with participant Harket Notavio—who went home as the grand winner for High School division in a group photo with PAS president, Leah Villalon and judges Maiolica Mendoza Gimotea, Edwin Tolentino, and Bruno Exiomo
Filipina Mars One Candidate Shares Her Thoughts
Miss Rañeses reads her speech to her audience.
through the efforts of Mars One and other space agencies, the excitement of the world for exploring the cosmos would be rekindled despite the known obstacles that are seemingly impossible to overcome.
universe? Is there life beyond Earth? These are just a few, and mankind cannot hope to answer these questions by merely sitting and observing from the comforts of our little blue orb. We have to go out there.
This speech was delivered before the contestants were awarded. Here is the full transcript:
Of course, travelling to Mars is not some LRT ride to school. Even if our best scientists and engineers say it’s doable, we cannot assume it would be safe. Danger will be there all the way. And it’s this very initiative and risk that’s forcing humanity to speep up our technology. And it’s this very need to speed up technology that has placed astronomy in the spotlight. We need to unlock whatever secrets we can unlock from down here as we prepare for this grand space expedition. Because every new piece of information brings us a step closer to success.
“Sixty years ago, the great space race happened. Governments rushed to build rockets and train astronauts, competing to reach the moon. When the moment finally arrived, the world cheered as they watched Neil Armstrong take that small step—the step that would propel mankind into the future.
By Lanz Lagman Member, RTU Astronomy Society
On the first day of the 24th National Astronomy Week, Ms. Minerva Rañeses gave a short talk about being a participant in the Mars One. The event, made possible by the collaboration of the Philippine Astronomical Society and Bedan Society of Young Astronomers, was held at San Beda College. She is a freelance writer and one of the two Filipina candidates selected to participate in the enterprise of Mars One which plans to send people on a one-way trip to Mars in the hopes of establishing a colony there. This means that if Mars One acquires the necessary technology, funds and meets its deadline, they could start sending people by 2025. In her speech, Rañeses mentioned the hype induced by the 1960s space race that soon declined after the safe return of the astronauts that went to the Moon. Hopefully
But as soon as the astronauts landed safely back on earth, received their medals, shook hands with important people, and did their photo-ops, the hype calmed back down. And the world moved on. And frankly, nothing as awe-inspiring had happened since. Today, however, I am glad to share with you that another space race is happening. But this time, the visionaries behind today’s leading space agencies are aiming for something farther, and planning something crazier. They aim to fly to Mars, and guess what? They aren’t just planning to snap pictures and return back home. They plan to live there. Imagine—Mars has no air, no readily drinkable water, no food sources, no atmosphere. So why go there? What’s the big deal? Why risk the lives of people for something so seemingly fruitless? It’s because we still have so many questions left unanswered. Are we alone in the
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We still have a long way to go, but not long enough to miss it in our lifetime. History will soon repeat itself. All of us here will have the opportunity to, again, watch from our TV and laptop screens the moment the first man or woman steps into another planet. Yes, we live in exciting times. And you, the youth, now have the luxury to dream far and dream wide. You have the opportunity to contribute to this grand scheme. ‘Pag sinabi mo sa parents mo na, “One day, Ma, I will live in Mars,” or “Ma, I want to become a Martian astronomer,” they will not laugh at you. Because it’s possible—it’s here. So while you’re still in school, do your best. Embrace science. Embrace astronomy.”
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Young Students Express their Appreciation of the Cosmos Through Video Making
ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
All 19 entries were compiled and sent to the judges together with the rubrics/score sheet. The judging was done by Al Auacay, Maylyne Enriquez, and Josie Solis. The qualifications for the Youth video contest are of the following: Maximum of three students per school, the length must be maximum of 30 seconds, the items used in the video must be legal, and it must be submitted in .mp4 format on or before February 7,2017. The winners of the Youth Video Contest came from three different schools; students Dimantala, Fungo and Rodriguez from Manila Cathedral School won 1st Place; students Aglipay, Marian and Sarmiento from Manggahan Highschool won 2nd Place; and Manila Science High school students Batallones, Caringal and Jamir were 3rd placers. They were awarded last February 18, 2017 during the opening of the 24th National Astronomy Week at San Beda College, Manila.
By Rachel Sta. Iglesia Logistics Officer, PNU Mountaineering Club
A youth video contest was held during the 24th National Astronomy Week at San Beda College Manila with the theme, “Technology as a Tool in Understanding Life in the Universe”. The contest aimed to communicate science by using videos as mediums. The contestants should be able to convey the theme through sounds and visuals. Since the contest were exclusively opened for ages 14-21, its goal was to create an opportunity for students to enhance their technical skills in video making and for them to voice out their views about science.
The top three entries were shown during the awarding day last February 18, 2017 during the opening of the 24th National Astronomy Week at San Beda College, Manila. The winners received a medal with a corresponding amount of P 2,000 for the third placer, P 3,000 for the second placer and P5,000 for the first placer. At first the organizers were hesitant to continue the youth video contest because students might not be able to create an output. In the end, many schools submitted. Subsequently the expected number of entries for the youth video contest was only five yet it surprisingly reach nineteen entries without including the late entries which stunned the organizers of the contest.
A screenshot from Spaced Out by Manila Science High School- 3rd placer
A screenshot from Manggahan High School- 2st Placer
A screenshot from Manila Cathedral School’s video entry- 1st placer
Weeklong Exhibit
Intricate Space Rockets Displayed to the Public by Rachel Sta. Iglesia Logistics Officer, PNU Mountaineering Club
In celebration of the 24th NAW of Philippine Astronomical Society (PAS), an exhibit of space rocket models, in collaboration with the Bedan Society of the Young Astronomers, was held in San Beda College, Manila. The exhibit, entitled “Rockets of the World”, showcased space rocket models created by an Astronomy enthusiast named Adrian Saldana. Using printed designs, card boards, sticks, glue and scissors, Saldana was able to create more than 20 space rocket models that were launched in different countries. The models were so detailed that they can even be manipulated and be broken down into component parts. The said event was actively participated by various schools inside and outside Metro Manila. Even though touching the models was restricted due to their fragility, their intricacies provided the viewers clear idea of how these rockets look like up close.
Close-up of the internal part of NASA’s Space Shuttle Image Credit: Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
“Rockets of the World”- an exhibit of space rocket models Image Credit: Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
Two of Rocket Models Image Credit: Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
Adrian Saldana: The maker of the space rocket models Image Credit: Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
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Angelica Tang, BSYA-President(Left) and Sir Pablo Cajigal, Jr., BSYA-Adviser (Right) Image Credit: Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
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ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
Main Lecture
Are We Going to Live on Mars? By Abdur Rahman Alindao Teacher, Islamic Studies, Call and Guidance School
The Bedan Society of Young Astronomers, the official astronomy club of San Beda College Manila in cooperation with Philippine Astronomical Society Inc. held another lecture series as part of the activities for the week-long celebration of the 24th National Astronomy Week last February 15, 2017 at the Abbott Hall of San Beda College Manila.
Sir Pecier Decierdo explains the effect of Mars Missions on pop culture. Image courtesy of Almirah Tabao Amin
The second part of the lecture is about the history of the different missions sent to Mars starting from Mariner 9 to Mars Global Surveyor (1997-2006). It clearly emphasized that even though there were many countries have tried to send missions, still Mars remains as a difficult target. The idea of these missions was to study closely the topography of Mars and to look for evidence of water and life.
Sir Pecier Decierdo delivers his lecture. Image courtesy of Almirah Tabao Amin
The final part of the lecture narrates the difficulties, challenges and limitations of the future manned mission to Mars. Some of which are still being looked for alternatives and further experimentations.
The speaker poses with PAS officers (from left- Mr. Christian Noel Canter, PAS Chairman of Instrumentation Committee, Mr. Hernan Dizon, PAS Vice President, Ms. Leah Villalon, PAS President), BSYA president, Angelica Tang and BSYA Adviser, Sir Jun Cajigal as he receives his certificate. Image courtesy of Almirah Tabao Amin
The Bedan Society of Young Astronomers, the official astronomy club of San Beda College- Manila in cooperation with Philippine Astronomical Society Inc. held another lecture series as part of the activities for the week-long celebration of the 24th National Astronomy Week last February 15, 2017attheAbbottHallofSanBedaCollege-Manila. The lecture was delivered by the ever energetic and humorous Science Communicator of The Mind Museum- Taguig, Mr. Pecier Decierdo. He started his lecture with the early observations of Mars made by people which supported the idea of heliocentrism of Nicolas Copernicus. He emphasized the efforts made by early astronomers to give us an idea of the basic features of mars through drawing maps based on telescopic observations. Participants group together at the stage for the group photo. Image courtesy of Al Auacay
One of the participants asks a question. Image courtesy of Almirah Tabao Amin
Some of the challenges mentioned by the lecturer are the spaceflight constraints which deals with the question on how to develop a propulsion mechanism that can carry a heavy payload; safety of voyagers during the trip-- how to shield voyagers from radiation in outer space and on Mars; how to counter negative effects of low gravity and how to shorten the trip; safety of voyagers during stay-- how to create habitable areas on Mars and how to exploit sources of water and fuel on Mars and the possibility of a return trip - will voyagers be visitors or colonists and how to get visitors off Mars?
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At the end of the lecture, participants were given chances to ask the resource speaker. Before the event ended, Mr. Decierdo was awardedacertificateofappreciationbytheofficersof PhilippineAstronomicalSocietyInc.togetherwith theofficersofBedanSocietyofYoungAstronomers. The event concluded with a group picture with all the PAS members, officers, resource speaker, and the participants from different schools.
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ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
Closing Day PAS’ 24th National Astronomy Week Concludes with a Celestial Navigation and Telescope Workshop By Rachel Sta. Iglesia Logistics Officer, PNU Mountaineering Club
Have you ever observed how the stars move in the night sky? Do you know how celestial observation is done using some human body parts and the different telescopes? These questions were answered on the Celestial Navigation and Telescope Workshop during the closing day of the National Astronomy Week 2017. PAS’ traditional group picture Image Credit: Image Credit: Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
explained from knowing the most known stars and constellations like Polaris, the North Star and Cassiopeia, the M-shaped constellation. He had also taught the hand method of measuring the angular separation of the stars and planets. Throughout the discussion, Sir Noel had given out two free laser-pointers for those who will give convincing answers to some of his questions.
Christian Noel Cantero discusses the history of celestial navigation Image Credit: Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
Last February 18, 2017, the 24th National Astronomy Week Celebration of the Philippine Astronomical Society, Inc. concluded with the Celestial Navigation and Telescope Workshop. The event was organized by Philippine Astronomical Society (PAS) in partnership with the Bedan Society of Young Astronomers (BYSA) led by Ms. Leah Villalon, President of PAS and Sir Pablo Cajigal, Jr., Adviser of BSYA. The said event was held at the conference hall of San Beda College. The participants were composed of various students and some faculty members from different schools such as Don Bosco Technical College, Centro Escolar College, Highway Hills Integrated School, Pateros Catholic High School, Cavite School of Saint Mark, De La Salle University, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Philippine Normal University, Islamic Studies, Call and Guidance School, and Tarlac State University. The invited lecturer was Mr. Christian Noel T. Cantero, the Auditor of Philippine Astronomical Society. The first part of the lecture-workshop was about Celestial Navigation. Sir Noel started his lecture with a catchy opening slide: Navigating through the Stars. He had introduced the history of astronomical observations from the early period and discussing its purpose and traditions. Then the apparent motions of the stars like the westward motion of the stars and planets from the Philippine horizon, the rotation and evolution of Earth inside the solar system and the apparent wobbling of the planets called Precession. Familiarizing and
The next part was the workshop was about telescopes. The three different types of telescopes; refracting, reflecting and compound telescopes were introduced to the visitors and how do these telescopes function. He also explained that it is not about the length of a telescope but rather the aperture that must be primarily considered when choosing a telescope. Tips on how to take care of the telescope were also discussed.
Cantero and the three different telescopes Image Credit: Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
The event ended by setting up the three telescopes at the parking lot of San Beda College. The students, faculty members, and other astronomy enthusiasts were not only able to witness a clear sky but they had also experienced manipulating these telescopes. It was indeed a successful NAW 2017, leaving the minds of the participants full of knowledgeinastronomyyetentertainingexperience.
Practicing the hand method of measuring Stellar distances Image Credit: Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
As the workshop nears its end, Sir Hernan Dizon acknowledged the visitors from the different schools. After the awarding of the certificate of appreciation, Ms. Leah Villalon, the PAS President, had delivered a closing remark not only for the workshop but also for the closing of the 24th NationalAstronomyWeekthankingeveryonewho worked behind the annual event and the supporters of the PAS from the students to the various enthusiast of astronomy.
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Hands-on activity on a Reflecting Telescope Image Credit: Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
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ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
PAS FB Page Expands its Online Reach In just a few weeks, the Facebook page of the Philippine Astronomical Society experienced a dramatic increase in the number of PAS Facebook page likes wherein it gathered around 30,000 likes in just a day, as of the day of this writing, the page now has more than 60,000 likes.
By Maria Sobina Yu Student, St. Jude Catholic School
This significant increase in the society’s online reach is due to the exploits of PAS’ former P.R.O. Mr. Bruno Exiomo. He planned to produce three viral posts for the page. He succeeded.
Then lastly in February 28, Mr. Exiomo posted the last of the three posts regarding the upcoming April stargazing event in PAS with a new tagline, “#squadgoals TAG YOUR FRIENDS! ” This also leads to an increase in the number of PAS Facebook page. Due to these viral posts, the page now has more than 60,000 Facebook likes. If you haven’t visited PAS Facebook page yet, check it out, and be amazed yourself!
Facebook likes of the Facebook Page of the Philippine Astronomical Society as of March 16. 2017.
The sudden increase of likes in such a short amount of time is somewhat comparable to the Cosmic Inflation.
In February 24, 2017, as the number of likes of its facebook page nears 10,000 the Philippine Astronomical Society organized a Meteorite giveaway event, as a way of showing gratitude to the Filipino community who made this possible.To get a chance to winthismeteorite,acertainindividualmustfirstlikethe Facebook page of PAS, second to share the original post \ and lastly, to tag one friend in the comments section. It is in this way that a lot of people get to know about the Facebook page of PAS and ever since, it has been receiving engagements from the public. In the end, Regina Salve de Guzman was declared the winner in March 7, and therefore expected to receive her free meteorite accordingly. This was just the beginning of the sudden increase of likes.
Then in February 26, 2017, PAS announced that their next stargazing event is on April 22-23, 2017. With a tagline of, “TAG SOMEONE YOU WANT TO TAKE HERE!” People has been tagging their friends, families, most especially their lovers to see the meteor shower together. This aid in increasing the number of likes of PAS Facebook page. This proved to be the most popular post of the page and almost singlehandedly raising the likes from around 10,000 to almost 30,000 in less than a day.
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ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
March Events Grade 6 Students Stargaze from St Mary’s in PAS Overnight Event Mr. Cantero manipulates a telescope as students line up to see Jupiter.
“Keep your eyes on the star, and your feet on the ground.” – Mr. Theodore Roosevelt
By Celline Andrea E. Hilario St. Mary’s Academy
Mr. Lequiron conducts his lecture entitled “Astronomy 101”.
QUEZON CITY, Philippines—The Philippine Astronomical Society (PAS), together with Science teachers, guided grade six (6) students on various ways how scientists study and understand outer space through a series of stargazing lectures at St. Mary’s Academy in Pasay City last January 10 to 11.
PAS conducted a stargazing event at Escuela de Sophia of Caloocan Inc.
Mr. John Christian B. Lequiron, M. Sc., a Junior Meteorologist at Weather Philippines Foundation, and a member of PAS, began his lecture by providing trivia about outer space as he introduced basic concepts of astronomy which included cardinal points, constellations and asterisms, asteroids, and comets and meteors. After the lecture, facilitators from PAS—Mr. Hernan Dizon, Mr. Lanz Lagman, and Mr. Christian Noel Tolentino—prepared four telescopes on the school grounds. By providing an opportunity to have glimpse of moon from these high-powered telescopes, students appear astonished while they appreciate the view from afar. Students have enjoyed the view of different constellations seen during that night such as Cassiopeia, Perseus, and Orion’s belt. Furthermore, they also has the chance to observe Venus, Saturn, and Jupiter with respect to its four big moons Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto.
This experience serves as a good reminder for all participants to explore and appreciate the true beauty of things beyond our planet.
Grade 6 Students and PAS Facilitators pose for a group picture.
by Rachel Sta. Iglesia Logistics Officer, PNU Mountaineering Club The Philippine Astronomical Society was invited to conduct a stargazing event at Escuela de Sophia of Caloocan, Inc. held last March 17, 2017 at Bagumbong, Caloocan. Christian Noel Cantero, together with Hernan Dizon and Rachel Sta Iglesia conducted a lecture about Celestial navigationandtelescopeviewingforthegrade6pupilsof Escuela de Sophia of Caloocan, Inc. guided by their fellow teachers. The stargazing event was part of the culminating activity of the grade six pupils. The first part of the program was a brief lecture about the history of celestial navigation and some ways on how and why do people observe the night sky. After the lecture, the pupils were grouped into four according to their sections for the ex tendedlectureonobservingdifferentcelestialobjects in the night sky. The sections took turns in going to the rooftop to maintain the crowd control at the observation area. Three telescopes were set up by PAS were the pupils were able to see specific celestial objects such as the planets Venus, Mars, and Jupiter (with its main satellites Io, Callisto, Europa and Ganymede), Moon, Orion Nebula, and some stars like Sirius and Polaris. Despite of the light pollution that distracts the observers from seeing more stars in the sky, it did not prevent the students from gathering knowledge while having fun in astronomy. The stargazing event proceeded until 11 pm for the sake of the pupils’ safety as they return to their residences. The event of Escuela de Sophia of Caloocan, Inc. concluded with the awarding of certificates and tokens of appreciation to the lecturers and facilitators from Philippine Astronomical Society.
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Students interact with Mr. Lequiron during his discussion.
A Grade 6 pupil looking at the Sunset through the telescope Image Credit: Escuela de Sophia of Caloocan, Inc.
Mr. Dizon peeks through the telescope. Image Credit: Escuela de Sophia of Caloocan, Inc.
Mr. Cantero conducts his celestial navigation lecture Image Credit: Escuela de Sophia of Caloocan, Inc.
Mr. Cantero adjusts the Compound telescopes while the pupils wait. Image Credit: Escuela de Sophia of Caloocan, Inc.
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ACTIVITIES OF THE PHILIPPINE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
2nd Celestial Navigation and Telescope Workshop/Training for the new batch of Stargazing facilitators By Rachel Sta. Iglesia Logistics Officer, PNU Mountaineering Club
The Philippine Astronomical Society conducted the 2nd Celestial Navigation and Telescope Workshop/Training for the new batch of Star Gazing facilitators held last March 19, 2017 at Semicon Building, Pasig. Christian Noel Cantero led the training through the celestial navigation lecture. The event was exclusive for the PAS members and the newly registered members. The training was intended to recruit a new batch of volunteers and facilitators for the upcoming stargazing events of Philippine Astronomical Society on April and May. The first part of the training was a brief game entitled “Astronomy 101� to check the prior knowledge of the participants in astronomy. Next was the lecture proper which started with its first part about celestial navigation where the participants had a chance of exploring the night skies by using different celestial objects followed by the second part which talked about the telescopes: its type, mechanism, proper care and handling. After the lecture, the trainees were grouped into three for the handson activity on assembling the telescopes. The groups took turns in manipulating the three different telescopes.
Group picture of the Trainees together with the PAS Committee Heads and Facilitators Image Credit: Al Auacay
Participants posed for a photo with the facilitators. Image courtesy of Briget Orpilla Villanueva
The event concluded by setting up the three telescopes at the open area of the Semicon Building. The trainees were given a chance to assemble and disassemble the telescopes by groups and had a chance of using it in observing celestial objects. The event was able to unite different types of people because of a unifying reason, to observe the sky.
Trainees work together to assemble the mounting. Image Credit: Briget Villanueva
The participants assembling the newtonian telescope. Image courtesy of Briget Orpilla Villanueva
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Wisely peeks through the telescope for solar viewing.
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COSMIC COLLECTIVES
Cosmic Collectives
thoughts, discussions, and works concerning astronomy
Wondering about the By Reinabelle Reyes, Ph. D. Lecturer, Ateneo de Manila University
“The most incomprehensible thing about the Universe is that it is comprehensible.” - Albert Einstein
We
speak about “The Great Silence”—it seems that no one is communicating with us from outer space—but the truth is, the Universe is sending us messages, night and day. Astronomers have found ways to listen, to the light waves, radio waves, X-rays, cosmic rays, neutrinos, and most recently, gravitational waves, coming our way. Our detectors welcome them warmly after what could be millions, or even billions, of light years traveled across the dark, empty expanse of space. We carefully record each precious photon, and put together a picture of where it came from, and how it came to make its way to us. Piece by piece—diligently, playfully, cleverly, we rebuild the Universe. Even with a single decent optical telescope here in the country, we can participate in this Universe-listening and Universe-building endeavor. Observational astronomers like me specialize in capturing subtle messages from the skies and exploiting them for insights about the workings of Nature. Meanwhile, theoretical astrophysicists exploit the laws of Nature to create models to better understand and explain what we observe. In particular, general relativity theorists, including the Gravity Group at the National Institute of Physics in UP Diliman, led by Prof. Ian Vega, study the strange environment around extremely strong gravitational fields found in astrophysical compact objects like black holes and neutron stars and the gravitational wave signals that they generate.
Universe Together, theorists and observers weave a beautifully complex yet elegant understanding of astronomical phenomena, however strange and spectacular they may be. The Universe is full of mystery and wonder, but is also orderly and comprehensible, as Einstein marveled. One can look up to the sky in awe, mouth agape, yet at the same time, listen with concentration—telescope and computer in tow, brows furrowed and minds aglow. The Universe will speak to whoever will listen. Her invitation is wide open—and up to us to take. As a developing country, where do we begin? Globally, there is a growing comprehension that space technology and its applications play increasingly important roles in the national, economic, and social development of individual countries. In fact, many countries around the world consider space technology a top priority, given its influence on social development and widespread economic benefits. With its contributions to technological and cultural advancements, rangingfromfine-resolutionandhyperspectral detectors to supercomputers to the internet, space technologies are a potent tool for fostering socio-economic growth in developing nations, like the Philippines. In the Philippines, a national research and development agenda is a good start. Currently, a Space Research and Development Agenda is being established to set forth space-based capabilities, ranging from policies to research and development infrastructures. These space-based capabilities, in turn, will spur scientific growth so that the Philippines can engage in research and development endeavors in vital areas of space science, technology and allied fields.
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These space-based capabilities, in turn, will spur scientific growth so that the Philippines can engage in research and development endeavors in vital areas of space science, technology and allied fields. All these scientific pursuits of space and development are just part of a larger picture. They form an important aspect of a space economy, wherein products and services that form the space industry appropriately address domestic and international needs. In addition, space science and innovation would enable the growth and development of different sectors vital to the country. The emergence of space research and development is a continuing process. It involves participation of various sectors, not only the scientific community, but also government agencies and other institutions that will contribute to the fulfilment of space-based potential in the Philippines. The question remains if we, as a country, will take the first step on this long, yet ultimately rewarding journey. If we heed the call, we will give the next generations of Filipinos the exciting opportunity to explore the wonders of the Universe and utilize the gifts she has to offer.
This article was originally published in Philippine Panorama on the 26th of February, 2017. Author Bio: Reinabelle Reyes, Ph.D. is a part-time lecturer at Ateneo de Manila University and Rizal Technological University. She obtained her Doctorate degree in Astrophysics from Princeton University in New Jersey, USA and Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Ateneo de Manila University. Her astrophysics research focused on galaxy formation and observational cosmology.
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COSMIC COLLECTIVES
The Pale Blue Dot Climate change from a cosmic perspective By Pecier C. Decierdo Science Education Officer The Mind Museum
In Valentine’s Day of 1990, while most of the world cele-
brated love, the inhumanly lonely Voyager 1 spacecraft, the farthest human-made object from Earth, took one last photograph of our home planet from 6 billion kilometers away. From that great distance, a photo of the Earth won’t have much scientific value. Our planet would be smaller than a pixel. But astronomer and science communicator Carl Sagan knew that a picture of the Earth from that vantage point would have a value apart from scientific data, and so he made a request that a picture be taken of the Earth from there. The photo Voyager 1 took, which showed the Earth as a tiny blue speck surrounded by the darkness of space, is now famously known as the ‘Pale Blue Dot’. In a sense, the Pale Blue Dot is a picture of utter loneliness. It shows our home as an oasis of life in a vast desert of the near nothingness of outer space. In another sense, it is about togetherness. The picture of our tiny home set against the blackness showed how, from the cosmic standpoint, we are all huddling close for warmth in our tiny world. Not just all humans, but all life on Earth. The Pale Blue Dot also illustrates how, from a cosmic perspective, our planet is a fragile oasis. It is a reminder that if we are not careful in taking care of its delicate balance, there is nowhere else to go to. Now, more than ever, we need such a reminder, because our generation is facing the biggest challenge our species has ever faced—climate change. It all started with our desire to build a civilization that is more affluent than any that has come before it. Starting from Europe, the Industrial Revolution, which was powered by energy derived from burning coal, quickly spread throughout the world. The Industrial Revolution ushered in the age of locomotives, electricity, and mechanized production. Because of the revolution, the world was now connected via automobiles, steam ships, trains, and airplanes. Humans and goods can be easily transported across the globe. What more, they can be transported at a fraction of the time and cost they once required. This ease of transportation also allowed goods and services to reach lots places once considered very remote. The combination of cheap goods produced in larger quantities quickly transported all around the world created a world of relative affluence for a significant fraction of the human population. It has been said that members of the modern working class live in greater comfort and bounty than the royalty of past ages. That is all thanks to industrialization.
Industrialization also lit up the world. The electricity produced by burning fossil fuels brought the day to the night. Now people have more time to be productive or to do recreational activities. Gone are the days when human activities were slave to the available of sunlight. Thanks to the cheap power, water was also being pumped across great distances to reach the faucets of people from very far away, and to reach the sprinklers that shower the farms that grew the food for billions. The great benefits of industrialization have created a demand for more, faster, cheaper. The discovery of oil and its use in the diesel engine, which tended to produce more energy per pound than coal did, made the world even more dependent on fossil fuels. But the gifts of oil and petroleum did not end with abundant and relatively cheap energy. These materials that were dredged up from the ground were often called ‘black gold’ because so much of it had very high value. For example, oil and petroleum gave us plastics, among many other things. So many of the things surrounding you right now were made possible by this revolution, from the materials in the clothes that you wear to the materials that make up the computer you use to read this essay, from the chemical products you applied to your body during your morning ablutions earlier today to the chemicals added to your food. The very electricity that powers the devices around you and lights up your computer or smartphone screen right now are probably produced at least in part thanks to the fossil fuel revolution. And so since the Industrial Revolution in the 1700s, much of human civilization has been happily burning coal, oil, natural gas, and other fossil fuels to create the modern world. We knew for a long time that burning fossil fuels produced pollutants, but then we learned to minimize those pollutants. We knew for a long time that burning fossil fuels produced carbon dioxide, but then plants took in carbon dioxide. And, after all, carbon dioxide was a natural component of our atmosphere. Furthermore, our atmosphere was so big it could take in all of the carbon dioxide we release into it, wasn’t it? As the world came to depend more on fossil fuels, and as the people who got wealthy because of fossil fuels became more and more powerful, scientists have begun realizing the damage it was doing to the Earth. First, we learned that carbon dioxide acted as a greenhouse gas; it trapped heat into the atmosphere that would otherwise have gone back to space. It warmed our world.
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Here, astronomy gave very illustrative examples. When we sent probes to Mercury, we discovered that while its daytime side was very hot thanks to its proximity to the Sun, its nighttime side was freezing cold because it did not have an atmosphere to trap in the heat. Our probes to Venus told a very different story. The second rock from the Sun had a thick veil of clouds with lots of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. This means Venus’ atmosphere trapped so much of the heat coming from the Sun. The planet that was once considered “Earth’s twin planet” had a runaway greenhouse effect that made it the planetary equivalent of ancient hell. The atmosphere was extremely hot, extremely high pressure, plus it rained acid from the sky. Venus was nothing at all like its supposed twin planet, the Earth. While supposedly in the Sun’s ‘habitable zone’, the area around a star where liquid water can exist, Venus is a world very inhospitable to life. But we now know that our neighboring planet was not probably infernal from the beginning. Our Solar System’s second planet probably became the way it is thanks to an initially small imbalance in its atmospheric chemistry. Venus’ history thus serves as a dire warning about messing up the balance of Earth. After the exploration of Venus, scientists on Earth have begun fretting. They fiddled with the numbers: how much carbon dioxide are our industries adding to the atmosphere? How much carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is required to raise the average global temperatures by 0.1oC? How about by 0.5oC? What changes will we expect to see with each temperature increase? Very early on, even the scientist working for the giant oil companies knew about the damage their industries were doing to the world’s climate. Records now reveal that the scientist at Exxon and Shell knew about climate change as early as the late 1980s. It is possible that scientists working for other oil giants also knew about climate change back then.
COSMIC COLLECTIVES
However, many vested interests keep on blocking developments in climate action. While this is happening, the world is warming up and as a result, people are dying due to droughts, stronger storms, and wars waged because of the droughts and storms, cities are flooded by rising sea levels and diseases, and the world’s oceans and forests are dying. If we are to survive, I believe we must take the lesson of the Pale Blue Dot: we must view climate change from that cosmic perspective. In our brief search for planets outside the Solar System, we have found many that are about the same size as the Earth, many at the right distance from their star to possible host liquid water. However, none of them can be reached in the next century, or even in the century after that. Our search for a “second Earth” has only highlighted the singularity of our own; our search for life elsewhere has only increased our appreciation for the preciousness of life here on Earth. Let the Pale Blue Dot serve as a reminder to us of how small and fragile our home is, how fortunate we are to have it as a refuge against the bleakness of outer space, and how we, the very same species that sent Voyager 1 to the farthest reaches of the Solar System, have the potential to pull our act together and act on the greatest challenge our species has ever faced. We don’t have a choice. The Pale Blue Dot reminds us so.
Author Bio: Pecier C. Decierdo is a science communicator at The Mind Museum, science columnist for Manila Standard, and science lecturer for Loyola Student Center. He is a B.S. Physics graduate from the University of the Philippines Diliman. He regularly gives lectures and hosts star parties for the Philippine Astronomical Society and other local astronomy organizations.
Unfortunately, it was in the interest of the oil giants, who were by then not only economically but also politically powerful, to hide the truth, sow doubt and confusion, and encourage inaction. After all, increasing their profits depended on the world’s continual reliance to fossil fuels. As this cover-up was happening, advances in spaceflight made hiding the truth impossible. All the many satellites NASA has launched into orbit to study the Earth’s atmosphere all point to the same conclusion: human civilization has and is releasing too much carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, and this has lead to an increase in the global average temperature of the planet. This global increase is causing the climate to change at a magnitude and rate never before seen in the entire existence of the human species. The more data we gather both from the ground and from outer space, the more we become convinced that the longterm survival of our civilization depends on acting on this problem yesterday.
Earth as seen from afar as part of the very large solar system. Image courtesy of NASA
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ASTRONOMY ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT
Astronomy Organization Spotlight
The Bedan Society of Young Astronomers By Almirah Tabao Amin Bedan Society of Young Astronomers
Though never finding answers to the mysteriousness of the stars above, we keep wondering about the twinkling little stars, shining for us all to see—these are just one of the beauty of astronomy. In order to cater for the needs of the aspiring young astronomers of San Beda College Manila, a group of students together with their Science teacher gathered together to form an organization that would promote the love for astronomy to the Bedan community. Aiming to organize activities that would open our eyes to the magnificence of our universe, the BSYA holds activities such as stargazing, lectures, fieldtrips to different astronomical institutions, workshops, and different activities that would uphold the quest for knowledge of the young minds. The first activity was attending a telescope workshop at Planetarium Manila to enlighten the members of the proper usage of telescope.
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Registering to be an official member of the Philippine Astronomical Society (PAS), it opened more doors of opportunity for the organization to be more active in astronomical activities. Through conducting lectures such as “Life in the Universe as We Know It” with Engr. Camilo G. Dacanay to celebrating the National Astronomy Week, the BSYA have always been participative. To further strengthen the bonds of the organization members’ teamwork, the BSYA also holds stargazing activities at the campus of San Beda College Manila. Though never really seeing the stars for the light pollution of Metro Manila, catching a glimpse of its heavenliness is still enough to make the activities memorable.
The telescope used for all the stargazing activities of BSYA
One of the biggest events organized by the BSYA, the National Astronomy Week (NAW) was celebrated in collaboration with PAS last February 11, 13-17, 2017 at San Beda College Manila. With more than 20 schools officially registered as participants for the event, the event organizers were successful in administering activities and competitions such as astroquiz, youth video, astrophotography, and on the spot poster-making contest. Aiming to promote the love for the study of astronomy, there were several speakers who shared their knowledge with the young minds of today’s generation. Carl Sagan once said, “The nitrogen in our DNA, the calcium in our teeth, the iron in our blood, the carbon in our apple pies were made in the interiors of collapsing stars. We are all made of star stuff.” Truly, we are the children of the stars. Through looking at the skies above, we realize the more important things in life. We may never find an answer to these endless questions that we have, we may never truly benefit from studying astronomy, but it is the beauty of it all that makes it worth studying.
First stargazing activity of the BSYA at the football field of San Beda College Manila
Second stargazing activity near the Drummer Boy
Public telescopic viewing of sunspots at San Beda College Manila near the Drummer Boy last Frolics
The club moderator, Prof. Jun Cajigal, with some BSYA members and college students
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UPCOMING CELESTIAL EVENTS
Philippine Astronomical Society Astro Calendar 2017 (2nd quarter)
By Engr. Ronald Tanco
April 1 1 4 5 8 11 17 19 20 23 24
Event Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation (19 degrees) Aldebaran 0.4 Degrees South of Moon First Quarter Moon Beehive Cluster 4.0 Degrees North of Moon Jupiter at Opposition Full Moon Saturn 2.8 Degrees South of Moon Last Quarter Moon Mercury at Inferior Conjunction Lyrids Meteor Shower Peak ZHR = 18 Pi Puppids Meteor Shower Peak ZHR = var
Time 0500h
Remarks Visible before sunset.
1805h 0240h 2215h 0530h 1410h 0225h 1800h 1355h
Partially visible after sunset.
Active from April 16 to 25, Lyra above the horizon by 2230h to dawn. Active from April 15 to 28, Puppis above horizon from sunset to about midnight. Visible before sunrise.
24 26 May 3 6
Moon and Venus seen near each other New Moon First Quarter Moon Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower Peak ZHR = 60
1050h
11 18
Full Moon Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation 25.8 Degrees Last Quarter Moon Moon seen near Venus Moon seen near Mercury New Moon
0545h 0715h
First Quarter Moon Venus at Greatest Western Elongation 45.9 Degrees Full Moon Saturn at Opposition Last Quarter Moon Venus 2.9 Degrees North of Moon Summer Solstice Mercury at Superior conjunction New Moon June Bootids Meteor Shower ZHR = var
2045h 2030h
19 23 24 26 June 1 3 9 15 17 21 21 21 24 27
2017 Star guide for the 2nd Quarter of 2017
By Engr. Ronald Tanco
April 2017 We begin the month with April with Mercury reaching its Greatest Eastern Elongation giving viewers the best opportunity to catch this elusive planet before sunset with an angular separation of about 20 degrees from the sun. Observers will have a week to see Mercury in the sky before
2015h
Active from April 19 to May 28, above the horizon by about 0200h to dawn Visible before sunrise.
0835h before sunrise before sunrise 0345h
2110h 1805h 1935h 0625h 1225h 2215h 1030h Active from June 26 to Jul 2.
it will descend to its inferior conjunction on the 20th. After which it shall be seen as the morning star for first few weeks of May. In the meantime, enjoy the spectacular sight at sunset from March 29 to April 2 as viewers can see an alignment of the crescent moon, Mercury and Mars together, with the moon being closest to Mercury and Mars on March 29 and 30th. If you feel that Mercury and Mars are not enticing enough to bring out your telescope, Jupiter on June 8 will reach its opposition. Meaning, June is one of the best month to see Jupiter at its closest for 2017. To the naked eye, it will be the brightest object in the night sky and can easily be seen from sunset to sunrise in the constellation of Virgo. For those with telescope, it should be a good time to look closely at the violent weather patterns of Jupiter and also seek out the Great Red Spot For early risers, Venus will be the brightest object just before dawn throughout April and will be rising earlier as it tries to complete its greatest western elongation. Venus will be joined by the waning crescent moon on the morning of April 24 and if seen through telescope one would see 2 crescents.
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The latter part of April is also a good time to catch some meteors shooting through the night sky as 2 active meteor showers come in with peak dates on April 23 and 24. These are the Lyrids meteor The waning crescent will make skies dark and hopefully the best opportunity to witness this events.
May 2017 May will highlight the month where there will be 2 planets that will shine as the morning stars. Both Mercury and Venus maybe seen just above the horizon before sunrise. Mercury will reach its greatest western elongation by May 18 giving viewers ample time to catch the hard to find Mercury. These 2 planets will be joined by the crescent moon on May 23 and 24 making it an interesting morning to wake up to. Also during the 2 weeks of May one can enjoy the early mornings from 1am onwards to observe the Eta Aquariids meteor shower from the southern horizon while waiting for the planets Venus and Mercury to rise. As for events before sunset, Mars will be get harder to see as it begins to be more fainter and
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closer in angular distance to the sun. Jupiter’s magnitude will start to fade as it begins its journey towards conjunction, but will still be visible to all any time after sunset. Saturn on the other hand can be see getting brighter as it begins to reach its opposition again.
June 2017 The rainy season may start already, but it is still a good reason to keep your telescope ready to view the ringed planet Saturn. June is the month where it reaches its opposition and will be closest to Earth on June 15. With the right amount of magnification on the telescope, don’t miss the opportunity to see the fully exposed rings as it is angled to near maximum for observers to view. In the next few years, the rings will begin to tilt edge on due to the orbit of Saturn. The next opportunity to see the rings of Saturn in full may be in 15 to 17 years from now.
On Meteor Showers: Article below was taken from International Meteor Organization website: Lyrids; peak: April 23; Active from April 16th to April 25th The Lyrids are a medium strength shower that usually produces good rates for three nights centered on the maximum. These meteors also usually lack persistent trains but can produce fireballs. These meteors are best seen from the northern hemisphere where the radiant is high in the sky at dawn. Activity from this shower can be seen from the southern hemisphere, but at a lower rate. Radiant: 18:04 +34° - ZHR: 18 - Velocity: 30 miles/sec (medium - 48.4km/sec) - Parent Object: C/1861 G1 (Thatcher) The Lyrids will be the major active meteor shower! Eta Aquariid; peak: May 6; Active from April 19th to May 26th The Eta Aquariids are a strong shower when viewed from the southern tropics. From the equator northward, they usually only produce medium rates of 10-30 per hour just before dawn. Activity is good for a week centered the night of maximum activity. These are swift meteors that produce a high percentage of persistent trains, but few fireballs. The Eta Aquariids are a strong shower when viewed from the southern tropics. From the equator northward, they usually only produce medium rates of 10-30 per hour just before dawn. Activity is good for a week centered the night of maximum activity. These are swift meteors that produce a high percentage of persistent trains, but few fireballs. The Eta Aquariids are a strong shower when viewed from the southern tropics. From the equator northward, they usually only produce medium rates of 10-30 per hour just before dawn. From the equator to 25S they can produce rates of 40-60 per hour just before dawn at maximum. The longer nights in the southern hemisphere allows the radiant to rise higher in their sky. South of 25S the radiant altitude actually decreases. Activity is good for a week centered the night of maximum activity. These are swift meteors that produce a high percentage of persistent trains, but few fireballs. Radiant: 22:32 -1° - ZHR: 55 - Velocity: 42 miles/sec (swift - 66.9km/sec) - Parent Object: 1P/Halley
Comet Watch
41P Tuttle-Giacobini-Kresak (TGK) orbital period: 5.41 years; Max Magnitude 5? April 2017
By Engr. Ronald Tanco
This year 2017 offers a number of opportunities to look for comets. For the second quarter of the year, 3 comets maybe visible within binocular and possibly naked eye brightness. The only challenge left is for you to go out and look for them. Don’t wait for it to brighten, take advantage of your trustworthy binoculars and the moonless evenings. The star charts in this article should provide you some assistance in finding them, and when you find the comet(s), share your discovery to your friends and loved ones! Happy Comet Hunting! This comet was first discovered in 1858 by Horace Parnell Tuttle of the Harvard College Observatory, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Presumed to be lost after it failed to reappear, (twice!) it was then re-discovered in 1907 and on 1951 by Michel Giacobini and Ľubor Kresák respectively. In its history, the comet had close encounters with Jupiter that have altered its orbit slightly. For 2017, the comet is expected to have its closest approach to earth at about 0.14AU on April 1. So as early as March, this comet should be visible with the use of binoculars and hopefully visible to the naked eye by April reaching to a maximum of about Magnitude 5.0 or 6.0 with a chance of an outburst. We expect that it will reach its brightest magnitude sometime April 14 and begin to fade out after that. In the Philippine setting, the best time to view this comet is around late evening from 10pm onwards where it will hover near the northern constellations from Ursa Major – Draco – Lyra – Hercules from March to May. (See chart) A wide-field imaging opportunity comes at the end of April when the comet passes 5° from M92.
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2015 ER61 (PanSTARRS) orbital period: 7,763 years; Max Mag 6-7? May 2017
This comet was first discovered in March 2015 as a 21st magnitude asteroid, but it was after almost a year that they observed cometary features and a coma in their images taken in June 2015. Eventually it was redesignated as a comet. There are mixed predictions for this comet as of this writing, there are some that suggest that it will brighten to at most mag 9.0 and some to as much as Mag 2.0. Most recent observations as of this writing places the present magnitude at mag 9.0 and still has room to brighten up as it comes closer to Earth. It will have its closest approach to Earth on April 19 and its perihelion (closest approach to the sun) on May 10. From the Philippines, this comet will be seen at about 30 degrees above the eastern horizon at 4am i just before sunrise. If an outburst does occur, early riser with may see this comet with Venus nearby. We expect this comet to fade out before the end of May. Observations for this comet will be much appreciated. C/2015 V2 Johnson orbital period: N/A parabolic; Max Mag 6-7 in June 2017
On April, this comet lies not too far from 41P TGK. As of this writing C/2015 V2 Johnson can be found in the in the constellation Hercules with about a magnitude of 8.5. It is expected to reach its brightest at around mid-June at around Mag 6.5, and will be another binocular object and just on the borderline of being a naked eye object. Similar to 41P TGK, you will be able to spot this comet from 10pm onwards April or when you can see constellation Hercules above the horizon. The track of this comet moves from Hercules – Bootes -Virgo – Hydra. (see chart) For those tracking this comet with telescopes or binoculars, you will be pleased to know that this can be seen in our night sky until August where it will be in the area of Lupus. *all maps used in this article are generated by SkyMap Pro are estimated/predicted tracks and magnitude.
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