Space is getting closer: Eaglet has received astrophotography equipment and is preparing to launch new educational programs.
The choice of the site is not accidental. Orlyonok was founded in 1960, and it was Yuri Gagarin initiated the creation of the Aviation and Cosmonautics House in the pioneer camp . Since then, the center has been inextricably linked with the names of the first cosmonaut. Earth and Alexey Leonov, the man who first went into outer space. Today, these traditions are receiving a new technological embodiment.
The Frontiers of Science Guild handed over to the camp a professional ZWO ASI2600MC DUO camera designed for deep photography of celestial objects. An educational course on astrophotography was organized along with the equipment . The guild's partner , the Trajectory Foundation for Non—Profit Initiatives, has replenished the Eaglet library with books on physics and cosmonautics.
"Astrophotography is a synthesis of art, science and high technology. It requires knowledge of astronomy, skills in working with complex equipment and mastery of digital image processing methods," the organizers explain.
The practical part of the classes was conducted by the famous astrophotographer and popularizer of science Ruslan Ilnitsky. The students learned how to shoot space objects using different types of telescopes: large and small, solar and electronic. The weather did not disappoint — almost every night was cloudless, which allowed for full-fledged observations.
The culmination was a session of receiving images from the small Umka spacecraft. The children not only got acquainted with satellite imaging technology, but also saw in practice how data from space arrives at the Earth station.
Galina Malygina, co-founder of the Frontiers of Science Guild, emphasized that such classes can determine the future of children.:
"Astronomy classes at the camp can become a "launching pad" for future astrophysicists and give an impetus to the study of science. The guys enthusiastically discussed space, asked questions, and showed a lot of emotions when they managed to take photos. Now they will be able to take part in other activities, such as the Star Relay Race, the Transparent World project, and the Astrophysical School for High School Students."