Astronomer opens the outer space world to Rotary Club

MIDDLEBORO — Astronomer Mike Renzi spoke to the Middleboro Rotary Club Dec. 4 at the Fireside Grille about his experiences.

He shared a slide show with images of deep space objects, planets, and asteroid pictures and videos that he has taken from his own observatory. He spoke about how his interest in astronomy began when he was a child watching the Apollo Moon landing, and about the thrill of using a telescope for the first time, seeing the planets and Jupiter's moons and getting totally hooked. 

Renzi briefly touched on the telescope-making projects and also about the observatory. In addition, he shared his perspective about the rich educational opportunities available in astronomy.

"People should know that astronomy is a gateway subject that can lead to many other areas of knowledge, most of the sciences and much more," Renzi said.

Just prior to the presentation Rotary President Matt Bruce presented the owner of the Fireside with a gratitude plaque for inviting the Middleboro Rotary club to hold meetings there most Wednesdays night for the last five years.