Inspiration
This page could equally be called the BLT Hall of Fame; those who have inspired me to get outside and look up.
Trevor in his natural environment
What would Trevor do?
Trevor Jones AKA AstroBackyard.com is a endless stream of positivity, wisdom and inspiration for amateur imagers. His YouTube videos, tutorials and blogs cover all aspects of Astro imaging and equipment reviews. He makes it look easy and fun even though he images from Canada where it might be -20 outside. By his own admission, he is old school but not afraid to experiment with new kit. I could watch his stuff all day, although it’s dangerous; if Trevor reviews it, I buy it.
Gary Fildes’ An Astronomer’s Tale
This is the book I read on holiday in May 2017 that started the BLT project. It tells his personal story; how a private passion for astronomy resulted in the construction of the Kielder Observatory and Gary being appointed lead astronomer. His enthusiasm is infectious and it inspired me to start my sketchbook and planning for the BLT. As of 2019 I believe Gary is moving onto new pastures but will continue to be a great source of astronomy related gems @TheGaryFildes on twitter. Naturally, the book comes highly recommended.
Not blurry, stereoscopic
European Astrofest
I have made the journey across to London for the past 5 years or so, primarily to ogle to latest kit and make a few purchases. In Feb 2019, for the first time I got a conference pass for the Friday sessions. The talks were fantastic covering everything from Black Holes, Kuiper Belt Objects, Occultation Observations, exoplanets, Nightscape photography and dust storms on Mars. The headline slot went to Dr Brian May, showcasing his new book of Apollo moon images in stereoscopic 3D. I thought the science might be over my head, but the excellent speakers made the topics accessible for an enthusiastic but largely amateur audience.
click to link to Awesome Astronomy
Awesome Astronomy
I came across the Awesome Astronomy podcast about a year ago and have followed it avidly ever since. Given astronomy is usually a lone pursuit, hearing other people enthuse about it is motivating in itself. Ralph, Paul & Jen cover monthly news items, observation guides and scientific topics. I’d previously have said I was least interest in the science, but have become more so since I became a listener. Certain topics I would have previously skipped over (in books or magazines) I now find I read more with a basic knowledge gleaned from this podcast.
BBC Heavenly Bodies
This BBC TV series from the early 1990s probably sparked my enthusiasm in astronomy. Aired in the UK around the same time Shoemaker-Levy 9 was smashing into Jupiter, and before comet Hale-Bopp was dazzled in the western skies, this series and accompanying book served as an introduction to this hobby (calling?).
More recently, the various series by Brian Cox have expanded my interest. I saw him once stood alone at a construction expo (weirdly) and regret not going to say hi - he’s far too famous now, I’d never make it through security or the groupies.
Amateur Community
My twitter feed follows a number of excellent and enthusiastic imagers who I recommend you check out. It’s nice to know someone out there is trying the same thing as you on the same night, perhaps a few counties or countries away. Seeing what other people can do provides good inspiration for future targets and a guide to the time, patience and skill needed to produce great astro images.
Will Gater’s Nightscape Photography
Will Gater is an astronomy broadcaster, author and photographer. Amongst the resources on his website are examples of his fantastic nightscape images setting the night sky against a backdrop of nature or built structures. I was lucky enough to see Will speak at Astrofest this year about his technique and tips. Now I have a lightweight tracking mount I intend to get out in the field more and try it for myself.
Magazines
I have shelves groaning under the weight of many years’ subscriptions to both Astronomy Now and Sky at Night magazine. Don’t make me chose between them - I love them both equally. I try and read the next month in advance to be aware of any key astronomical events, but then often go back afterwards to re-read equipment reviews or discover a ‘guide-to’ long after the event.
Damian Peach’s Planetary Photography
Damian is one of the best planetary photographers out there. Having won numerous awards for his fabulous images of the Moon and Planets, he now creates tutorials and gives talks to impart his considerable experience. Certainly something to aspire to. Check his website here.