Electronic Precinct - August 1998

From microscope to telescope

When it comes to exploring the universe, Gerard Gilligan, a histology technician in the Department of Veterinary Preclinical Science, gets to view inner as well as outer space. His duties at the University include the use of light microscopes to examine the micro-details of cells. However, outside work he prefers looking at planets, stars and distant galaxies.

Gerard is 'over the moon' at being elected Vice-President of the Liverpool Astronomical Society and he believes that the next 18 months are going to be exciting times for all those with their heads above the clouds.

In November this year the Leonid meteor shower could be a spectacular night of perhaps hundreds of 'shooting stars', with the prospects of a repeat performance in November 1999. Gerard and his fellow astronomers in the society are making plans to view the next total solar eclipse in August 1999. Th is will be capable of being seen in Europe, including Cornwall, England, and will be the first mainland UK total solar eclipse since 1927.

Gerard invites students and staff of the University to learn more about the universe around them. Details of the Liverpool Astronomical Society , its 119 year history, activities, and meetings can be obtained from the Society's web site:http://www.liv.ac.uk/~ggastro/home.html. Gerard can be contacted on ext 5356 or email: ggastro@liv.ac.uk.