ONLINE: Astronomy Talk: Power in the Field

*************************** This is an online event *******************************

We don't have the regular access to the clubhouse yet. But the night sky is still there, and there's still lots to learn. So we'll do this online.

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Many of SJAA’s events, like this one, are public and free to attend, but if you’re enjoying what SJAA has to offer, consider becoming a paid member for only $20 per year: https://www.sjaa.net/membership/benefits-of-membership-2/

Come join us for our monthly Astronomy talk!

Topic: Power in the Field
Speaker: Curtis Macchioni

Abstract:
In this talk I will show how easy it is to measure the power required to operate all of our typical astronomy equipment from mounts and pcs to dew heaters, camera coolers and everything in between. I will also review the different types of lithium power sources which are becoming very popular among amateur astronomers from all-in-one solar generators to stand alone simple batteries. We will examine the differences between LiFePO4 and LiNiMnCoO2 chemistries and prismatic versus cylindrical battery cells. I will also share the results of nearly two years of testing a number of different lithium based solar generators and stand alone batteries to see how well they operate in the field, the different requirements for recharging each with solar panels and the pros and cons of each type.

Bio:
Curtis is a physicist who spent 40 years working on the development and commercialization of new technology in the defense, telecom and and data storage industries. He retired last October after 17 years at Western Digital and now enjoys more time to view the night sky. His purchased his first telescope, a Unitron 60mm refractor, with money save from his paper route.