The Venus transit of 2004 was the first for more than 120 years and we were not going to miss it - weather permitting. So, early on the morning of the 8th June a number of hardy members congregated in Shrewsbury - close to the bandstand - to observe the transit and show it to anyone who wanted to see it. In the end, with the help of Shropshire Radio - but little support from the Shropshire Star - they were able to show it to many passersby, 3 vicars, classees of school girls and others keen to see something new and different.
Meanwhile, two SAS away teams went further afield with Douglas Renton-Cooper joined in with a group of Hungarian astronomers to bring the transit to more than 1000 people see the transit. At the same time, but 700 miles further south, Grant Privett invited all and sundry to watch the transit, but found that for the holiday makers in Zante, Greece, the beer and pool were a greater attraction. Their loss...
Before the rush. Members gather for the transit.
Venus near the Sun's limb. Rob Delaney.
Nigel Thomas showing the transit to a group of girls from Shrewsbury Girls School at The Quarry. David Woodward.
Near the limb. Alan Herbert.
The new game for all the family. See how many Salopians you can get to stick their head in the projection box. I guess this means they really were interested. Nigel Thomas.
Near the transit mid-point. David Woodward.
Peter Shah uses his Meade SCT to show a Shrewsbury audience that astronomy can be fun. Nigel Thomas.
Near the start of the transit. Grant Privett.
Helping to bring the transit to 1000 Hungarians. Douglas Renton-Cooper.
This page last modified 28th June 2007. Copyright of all images remains with whoever took it.