President Sargent David opened the meeting at 7.29.
There were 16 members present.
Apologies: Peter B, Phillippa and Ingrid
Club announcements;
Don C reported on last Wednesday's CETA meeting. There were approximately 20 at this, the initial meeting including six Parnell Rotarians. The target audience seemed to appreciate the function, enjoying Sophie Gilmore's speech, networking opportunities and looking forward to the next meeting on Wednesday 28th September at 6.30 pm at the Mt eden Bowling club.
This seems to be a very worthwhile venture so all members are encouraged to spread the word to others so they can enjoy the meetings and contribute to the projects.
Don C also reported that Jane is exploring the establishment of a local Probus club. Parnell will be 'in action' at both ends of the age spectrum!
David J had interviewed two applicants for Science Forum Scholarships. Both were outstanding pupils at ACG so David is recommending that we support them to the tune of $4,300 in total.
Avis reported on her recent visit to the Grace Foundation. Currently one hundred people being assisted in transition housing. The Foundation is looking for second hand furniture which is a good condition to furnish additional accommodation units that they are establishing. If you are clearing out yours (or anybody else's house) and have spare furniture contact Avis at avisnelson@xtra.co.nz.
The Speaker:
Dr Chris Benton returned to explain the background to some of the early photographs that have come from the new James Webb telescope. Key message - the universe is big, old and complex! Our galaxy, the milky way ,is about 10,000 trillian kilometres across.
The infrared photographs have given astronomers an insight to the early few million years of the universe.
Scientists have been able to view the life cycle of stars by examining numerous stars at different stages of their development. When a star dies, having run out of hydrogen to convert into helium, it collapses into a white dwarf, surrounded by layers of gas and dust. As these layers had been sloughed off by the star sequentially astronomers have been able to calculate the interior composition of those stars.
There were excellent photographs, well explained by the enthusiastic Dr Benton.
A fascinating presentation.
