An Astronomical Christmas Tale: The Star of Bethlehem

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Join us on December 13th  2019 at 7:30pm – Admission is free and everyone is welcome!

HAA welcomes our very own Kevin Salwach as our guest speaker for our final meeting of 2019. There are also some 2020 calendars available so grab yours now as they also make a great stocking stuffer!

It is perhaps one of the most well known Biblical narratives. A dazzling star shining in the east, guiding the Magi towards the Nativity of Jesus Christ. It has become a centrepiece of the Nativity story, and a staple of Christmas lore. Surprisingly however, there is very little discussion of the Star of Bethlehem in the Gospels, and it’s true nature has been the topic of debate for centuries. Kevin will be discussing the many theories put forth over the years to scientifically explain what exactly the Three Wise Men were following towards Jesus’ manger two millenia ago, and whether the Star of Bethlehem was simply an astronomical phenomenon, or a miraculous sign from above in this Christmas themed talk at our December meeting.

Kevin Salwach has been a member of the HAA for over a decade, and has given many talks to the group over the years on a variety of subjects. A lover of binocular observing, Kevin can often be found sweeping the skies of Ancaster and Dundas with his trust 25×100 binos and enjoying the beauty of a clear, dark night under the stars.

Christmas Social

The regular meeting break will be extended to allow members and guests to mingle over coffee and treats.  If you are able to contribute an item to the treat table such as Christmas baking/sweets, Timbits, a small tray of fruit or veggies, etc. please contact Sue MacLachlan at ‘smaclach”at”teksavvy.com’

Non-members are welcome

Non-members are welcome to join us at our general meeting events to see what we’re all about. You’ll find a club full of enthusiastic amateur astronomers passionate about this fascinating science and hobby. We’re confident you’ll want to become a member of the Hamilton Amateur Astronomers and join us in exploring this fascinating hobby.

Place and time

We’ll be meeting at McMaster Innovation Park located at 175 Longwood Rd.  South, Hamilton, along Highway 403 between Aberdeen Ave. and Main St. West. Starting time is at 7:30pm.

Door prizes

There will be a draw for door prizes at the meeting and a free door prize ticket to all who arrive before the 7:30 start time! As it’s the holiday season, there will be some extra prizes to be won!

Food share donations

Donations of non-perishable food for the Hamilton Food Share program will be collected at this meeting. Please drop off any items at the drop-box located near the entrance of the auditorium. All donations gratefully accepted and thanks to your generosity we’ve collected thousands of pounds of food since we began. Let’s keep up the great work as the need continues.

Become a member

Becoming a member of the HAA opens up new opportunities to take your love of astronomy further! Members have access to our star nights at the Binbrook Conservation Area, our telescope loaner program, social events such as our Cosmology Discussion Group, and more!

Photo credit: https://www.onfife.com