GET INVOLVED!

Telescope Rescue

The Institute wants to get telescopes out of closets and into good homes. We need someone to collect usable telescopes as charitable donations, provide some TLC, and then deliver quality low-cost equipment and support to users. Please contact us if you would be interested in assisting with this service to the public.

If you have a telescope to donate, please note that we accept quality used equipment and will provide a charitable deduction for its fair market value.
 

Mentor for Beginners

We want to hear from you if you would like to share your observing skills with novice astronomers. Many eager beginners buy their first telescope, and then quickly become frustrated by the technical challenges of using it. New observers often feel "lost in space," armed with expensive state-of-the-art equipment but unable to locate the celestial targets that they long to see. A knowledgable, supportive mentor can make all the difference, by demystifying the equipment and passing along basic observing tips.
 

"Seize the Night" at Town Hill EBS

Homeowners ready to protect our starry skies will find night-sky-friendly lighting fixtures on display at the Town Hill EBS. Responding to the lack of quality residential lighting, IAI member Clarissa Venditelli was inspired to seize the night. Her display under the banner Carpe Noctem (Latin for "Seize the Night") includes examples of fully-shielded lights designed to address heightened environmental concerns and soaring electricity prices. EBS carries Hubbardton Forge fixtures from Vermont and the utilitarian Energy Star rated Glare Busters, in addition to numerous brand names such as Kichler and Thomas Lighting. Because not everyone can afford to replace old lights, retrofit shields are available for existing lights. There is even a decorative carriage-lantern style. Stop by and let Clarissa show you firsthand how you can protect your own starry skies. For more information, call the Town Hill EBS at 207-288-9756.

Event Sponsor 

The Institute offers many types of entertaining and educational programs. Contact us to learn how you can organize a fundraising event for friends, family, and neighbors, around the presentation of your choice.
 

Light Pollution Monitor

Use a handheld Sky Quality Meter to monitor light pollution levels. The Institute is developing a regional monitoring system to separate seasonal, long-term changes from daily weather patterns. We will train you in the use of the meter, and you will be in the forefront of an important data-gathering effort that will benefit Maine's parks and towns. We also hope that this initiative will be a model for other organizations nationwide.
 

Artists, Photographers, Videographers, Writers, Musicians...

Maine has a thriving artistic community that is nurtured and inspired by our state's heritage and resources. Tell the story of the people, places, and events that are dedicated to protecting the magnificent starry skies of Maine.

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