Filipino Astronomy Blogs

Below is a listing of astronomy blogs (including mixed blogs, and blog-style astronomy websites).

Philippine Astronomy Blogs
Blog	Author(s)	Year Started
First Light	Kin Enriquez	2005
The Sky Above	Erika Valdueza	2007
SU-Physics	Junior Philippine Physics Society	2007
Stargazers	Norman Marigza	2008
TV-101 Blog Page	James Kevin Ty	2008
Amateur Astronomer	Ezekiel	2008
Tani&#39s Astronomy Log	Nathaniel Custodio	2008
Lunar20	Reynold Chong	2009
Eclipse Hunter	Jodl Gayatin	2009
Paper, Chalkdust and Stars	Edward Von Delelis	2010
Chinilicious&#39 Topsy Turvy Town	Crisel Tungala	2010
Philippine Astronomy	Raymund John Ang	2010
Journey to the Stars	Criselda Roque	2010
Amateur Astronomy Adventures	Marvin Xylon Jaen	2010
The Night Sky in Focus	Anthony Guiller Urbano	2011
Diffraction Limited	Dennis Llante	2011
Astronomy & Living by Hernando	Hernando Bautista	2011
DSLR Astrophotography Philippines	Leo Dy	2012
The AstroBirder	Vincent R. Lao	2012
RTU Astrosoc	RTU Astronomy Society	2012
Sky Observer	Margareth Custodio	2012
Luminism	Shubhashish Banerjee	2015
Sidereal Times	UP Astronomical Society
Stardust Observatory	John Nassr
JVNoriega Astro Images	JV Noriega
The Cosmic Wanderer	Maria Sobina Yu	2015

You can also access a full description on the nature of these blogs in my 2012 seminar paper entitled Astronomy Blogging as a Medium for Developing Astronomy Education in the Philippines.

Dots in Space

Meet Aedan Pio, an intelligent 4-year old boy with a passion for space. He dreams of being an astronaut, and is a promising astro artist who does watercolor paintings of the planets. Sadly, Pio has a condition called chordoma (a rare kind of brain cancer).

To assist Pio, the Lung Center of the Philippines in coordination with Oxygen Art + Design Gallery will be hosting a fund raising art exhibit entitled Dots in Space. The exhibit will run from Sept 4 - Oct 6, 2015 at the lobby of the Lung Center (Quezon Avenue, Quezon City). Pio has several watercolor paintings of the solar system being sold as well as some paintings by his grandmother. I also contributed four paintings in the exhibit. Other astro artists and imagers are encouraged to add to the ongoing exhibit to help Pio.

As I looked at Pio's paintings I was amazed how he has certain details about the planets such as their colors and features. One particular painting I saw has all the terrestrial planets on one side and the gas giants on the other with Pluto located away from the line-up in accordance with its current dwarf planet status. During the short chat I had with Pio he asked me why Jupiter is so big. I was also surprised to Pio's response when his mom told him to ask me what is Jupiter made off. He responded by saying that Jupiter is made of mostly Hydrogen and Helium.

One of Pio's paintings.

For those interested to contribute you may contact me here, or reach the exhibit curator Dara Solevilla at 09153023274.

Astronomy Convention

 

The University of the Philippines Astronomical Society will be holding an Astronomy Convention for High School Teachers and Students. The convention will be for 3-days and 2-nights (November 7-9) at Anne Raquel's Resort in Olongapo City.

The convention will host lectures and lab activities for students and a Teaching workshop/seminar for the high school teachers.

For more information you can visit the convention's Facebook page or contact

upastrosociety@gmail.com

or Trizzia Tiwaquen at 09279831919

Venus-Jupiter Conjunction (July 1)

Here are my shots of the close planetary pairing of Venus and Jupiter.

 Under-exposed to reveal the crescent Venus and the bands on Jupiter

 Exposed to reveal three of the Galilean moons (Europa hidden in Jupiter's shadow)

My June 30 shots can be seen at the previous post or as featured in AWB.

Venus-Jupiter Conjunction

Tonight will be the closest planetary pairing between Jupiter and Venus (0.3 degrees apart) after a very long period. This conjunction of the two planets is believed as one of the likeliest candidates for the 'Star of Bethlehem'.

A lot of amateur and professional astronomers throughout the world have been observing these two as they get closer and closer each night. I have planned to document their displacement in the night sky however cloudy skies have been dominant as of late.

Here are my images taken as of last night (June 30).

Note:

Unfortunately, my close-up image was plagiarized last night. The copyright was cropped out and the levels edited, but you could still tell it was my image from the distinct features (besides I have the RAW). You may share my images but please retain the image credits and do not claim it as your own.

Save the Night for Sea Turtles

Today (June 16) is World Sea Turtle Day – a day used to honor and highlight the importance of sea turtles. These wonderful creatures are at risk due to various human activity, including the presence of artificial lights.

Now for those in the astronomy scene we value the dark night sky in order for us to appreciate the wonders of the universe. But known to little is the threat of light pollution on these endangered creatures. Female sea turtles look for dark coastal areas to nest their eggs and to keep them protected. The presence of coastal lights prevent them from finding suitable nests for their eggs. Sometimes coastal lighting casts shadows on some areas that to the turtles may seem dark and suitable, but is actually exposed come daylight.

Sea turtle hatchlings also have a natural programming that direct them towards the safety of the sea. For centuries the reflection of the moon and stars on the sea have guided them. With the presence of artificial coastal lighting today, they are disoriented and crawl away from the water and into roads or populated regions where they end up ran over or sold as pets (which is illegal for endangered species). Others who don't find their way become exhausted and dehydrated until they perish.

 

Gamay, a Hawksbill turtle rehabilitated in the Silliman University Marine Lab and released in the Apo Island Marine Sanctuary.

Among the critically endangered sea turtle species are the hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricat) who have been reported to lay eggs in the populated and highly commercialized island of Boracay. We have four other species of sea turtles inhabiting the Philippine waters - Loggerhead (Caretta caretta; endangered), green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas; endangered), leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea; critically endangered), and the Olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea; vulnerable).

Sea turtles are only part of a large number of species of animals affected by artificial light at night. So let's help protect these species by avoiding the use of excessive and unshielded lighting. In doing so, you also allow astronomers, stargazers, and astronomy enthusiasts a better view of the sky. All these animals are affected - and you and I are among them.

If you are interested to help monitor the levels of light pollution in the Philippines, you can join us at the Philippine Light Map project.

Philippine Light Map

2015 is the International Year of Light and Light Based Technologies (IYL2015). As participation to the event, a few students and I (from the Guild for Astronomy Innovation and Advancement) started the Philippine Light Map Project. It was a program I initially proposed to RTU last year, but none of the faculty then took it up. It was formally announced to the public during the last monthly meeting of the Astronomical League of the Philippines (ALP) with members of the UP-Astrosoc present.

The Philippine Light Map Project is designed to monitor the light pollution levels in the country. It aims to involve members of the astronomical and scientific community, as well as the local community, to provide scientific data by submitting images of the night sky which will then be subjected to photometric analysis. A map of the Philippines will then be generated with indications of light levels over areas that have been able to provide data.


Objectives:

• To gather collective image data from members of the astronomical community all over the country and create a photometric light map to monitor the status and changes in the levels of light pollution in the Philippines.
• To determine areas with dark skies for possible observation sites.
• To determine value of wasted energy resource at night and determine the trend of growing/decreasing energy consumption.
• To advocate dark-sky preservation and conservation of energy resources.

Various groups in different regions will be asked to be involved so that they may conduct and gather data from their own local regions. The project is designed to run continuously so that the changes may be monitored in the light levels and that the rate of wasted energy may be determined. The data can be presented to local government units (LGUs), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as well as the National Energy Commission (NEC). The data presented can be used to propose lighting ordinances to limit the amount of light pollution. The project can also be coordinated with various international efforts that support the preservation of the night sky such as: the International Conference in Defense of the Quality of Night Sky, International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), International Astronomical Union (IAU), and the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Committee.

How to get involved?
1. You may submit your images of the night sky for photometric analysis at the facebook group page of the Philippine Light Map. Ideally, a standard star must be included in the image field (please do not over expose the star; you may search the web for a catalog of photometric standard stars). Try your best to achieve a point focus for stars (if you zoom in on an unfocused star it tends to create a donut like shape). Also, ideally we want a narrow field view of view so set your lenses at the highest magnification; or your telescope attachments at prime focus.

Please indicate the date & time, observation site, camera model, lens and telescope used, as well as the location of the field you will submit (perhaps in RA/DEC).

2. If you have no camera you may use the star counting method designed by the International Meteor Organization to give an estimate of the limiting magnitude of your sky.

3. Reach out to your photographer contacts across the country to help get images; or advocate the importance of preserving a dark night sky.

Manila Street Astronomers at Star City

Last weekend, Gary Andreassen invited Christopher Lu and I to join him in Star City for a stargazing event. The amusement park was closed to an exclusive event for the HSBC GSC employees and their families.

Gary and I were first at the scene, and set up close to the roller coaster towards the employee exit. As we were setting up the 8-inch reflector a crowd gathered around us, excited to see what we have to show. Naturally, the amusement park is light polluted so we chose the planet Jupiter as our target.

Star City's PA system also announced our little setup and eventually the line to look at the telescope became as long as the roller coaster line. Christopher Lu eventually arrived and I was able to switch to Saturn which was now high enough to get away from the glare of a light from the ferris wheel side.

Despite the light pollution, we were able to successfully  share the wonders of the universe to people who looked through the telescope (mostly for their first time).

Every once-in-a-while you may catch Gary at SM South Mall, and Christopher at Kalentong setting up their telescopes for a free public viewing.

Solaractivity Picture of the Day (May 20)

My sunspot painting was selected as the Solar Activity Picture of the Day for the 20th of May.

I've been recently cooped up indoors (against my will) while renovations are being done at home. With all the clutter and construction taking place I couldn't manage to drag 'alpha' out for solar imaging/data gathering. So for two afternoons I worked on this painting of a sunspot group.

SolarActivity Picture of the Day

As I opened my Facebook this morning I was surprised at the first item in my news feed. My eyepiece projection shot for May 5, 2015 was selected as the SOLARACTIVITY PICTURE OF THE DAY. I'm not a pro at astrophotography like most of the members usually featured so I was quite pleased to find my image as the POD.

My photo was taken via an improvised eyepiece projection setup attached to my Sky-Watcher Explorer 150PL on a wooden dobsonian mount (or "alpha" as we call it). The seeing was great that morning so I was able to get good detail. I also recently have been experimenting on a new style of false color processing which gets rid of the burnt out look in the limb. [see original image here]

If you want to check out great solar images (white light, H-alpha, CaK, etc.) from different observers around the world check out the SOLARACTIVITY group.

Nova Sagittarii 2015 No. 2

Scroll over image to see labels. Please give time to load.

Here is an image of the recent nova in Sagittarius. I've been meaning to capture this for some time but never managed to wake up, so I decided to stay up instead. It reached an initial peak of magnitude +4.3 (sometime around March 22). Luckily for me, the nova displayed some erratic variability and has brightened this April 1st to a magnitude +4.8 after declining to around magnitude 6.

Here is the light curve by the AAVSO showing the increase in magnitude of the nova from its original peak. 

The nova was discovered by amateur astronomer John Seach on March 15 in Australia, and was initially labeled PNV J18365700-2855420. It is located at RA=18h 36m 56.8s and DEC=-28deg 55'40". The spectral signature indicates that it is a bright classical nova of the FeII spectral type. It is the brightest nova in Sagittarius since 1898.

Largest Telescopes in the Philippines

Here is another Philippine astronomy demographic regarding the largest telescope in the Philippines. In terms of astronomical optics "bigger is better". When the aperture (diameter of objective lens/mirror) of a telescope is larger it results to higher light gathering power, resolution, and useful magnification.

Manila Observatory

• Aperture: 19" Merz Refractor
  
• Historically the largest telescope in the Philippines, and in Asia during its time
• Destroyed by the Japanese during the Battle of Manila
  

PAGASA Astronomical Observatory

• Aperture: 18" (45 cm)
• Focal:
• Type: Reflector
• Status: In use, however mount is misaligned due to sinking ground of the observatory.
• Location: UP Diliman, Quezon City  

 

Akutsu Cebu Observatory

• Aperture: 18"
• Type: Newtonian Reflector (homemade)
• Status: Recently transported from Japan (2023), and to be opened to the public on 4 March 2023
  
• Location: Bonbon, Cebu City

 also,

• Aperture: 14"
• Type: Schmidt-Cassegrain
   

 

 Science Centrum

• Aperture: 17.5" 
• Focal: f/4.5
• Type: Reflector
• Status: Currently unknown (was previously on display in the Makati branch)
  
• Location: N/A

Stardust Observatory

• Aperture: 16"
• Focal: f4.5
• Type: Reflector
• Status: Maintained
• Location: South Drive, Baguio City

 *The C14 previously listed has been sold. A RASA 11 is now currently installed in its place

UP NISMED Observatory

• Aperture: 16" (40 cm)
• Focal:2000 mm
  
• Type: Reflector
• Status: Maintained

also,

• Aperture: 8"
• Focal:
• Type: Refractor (largest refractor currently in the Philippines)
• Status: Maintained 

 

Rizal Technological University

• AstroTech 16
• Aperture: 16" (40 cm)
• Focal: --
• Type: Ritchey-Chretien
• Mount: Paramount ME
• Status: Functional
• Location: Currently housed in the Alnitak Observatory
  

also,

• PlaneWave Instruments CDK14
• Aperture: 14" (35.56 cm)
• Focal: 2563 mm
• Type: Corrected Dall-Kirkham Astrograph
• Mount: Astrophysics GTO 1100
• Status: Functional
  

also,

• Meade, LX850
• Aperture: 14" (35.56 cm)
• Focal: 2845 mm, f/8 [with focal reducer for f/5]
• Type: Schmidt-Cassegrain
• Status: Functional
• Location: Currently housed in the Mintaka Observatory
  

 

New Era University

• Aperture: 16"
• Type: Ritchey-Chretien
• Status: Functional
  

Christopher Go

• Celestron, C14
• Aperture: 14"
• Focal:
• Type: Schmidt-Cassegrain
• Status: Maintained

Exploreum

• Celestron, C14
• Aperture: 14"
• Focal:
• Type: Schmidt-Cassegrain
• Status: Unknown (Exploreum permanently closed down during the pandemic)
  

Information gathered with assistance from the Philippine Astronomy Forum.
Last updated on 19 February 2023

Some Remarkable Filipino Amateur Astronomers

Here is a post in contrast to my previous post on the Directory of Philippine Professional Astronomers. This time I'll be featuring the amateur astronomers.

I often argue that amateur astronomers are not individuals to be taken lightly just because of the word "amateur". They include a wide range of individuals that include beginners and those that also do professional work in astronomy. I myself began as an amateur astronomer. In my undergraduate studies I've managed the use and maintenance of the telescopes of the physics department of Silliman University as an amateur astronomer. I also began astro-blogging as an amateur.

So don't look down on being amateur astronomers. You might just end up like these individuals who have made remarkable contributions in the field of astronomy.

Fr. Victor Badillo SJ Father of Philippine Astronomy

(1949-2014)

• Jesuit priest with a PhD in Physics.
• Former director of the Manila Observatory (ADMU) in which he actively conducted solar radio physics
• Founder of the Philippine Astronomical Society (PAS)
• Astronomical League of the Philippines' Honorary Director
• Minor planet 4866 designated as Asteroid Badillo by the IAU in honor of his works
• Authored several astronomy papers

---

Edwin Aguirre and Imelda Joson (Edwelda)

• First Filipinos to have an asteroid designated in their name by the IAU - minor planet 6282 Edwelda, for their contributions in astronomy
•  Science writers/editors in international astronomical publications, particularly Sky & Telescope magazine
• Astrophotographers
• Former officers of the PAS
• Recipients of the 1986 Padre Faura Astronomy Medal, 2006 Father Victor Badillo Astronomy Service Award, as well as several international commendations
• Veteran eclipse chasers
• Proposed and drafted the Executive Proclamation for the National Astronomy Week
• Members of ALP, PAS, American Astronomical Society, American Association for the Advancement of Science, National Research Council of the Philippines

---

Christopher Go

• A physics graduate from the University of San Carlos
• Founding member of the University of San Carlos Astronomical Society
• One of the country's top astrophotographers
• Discovered 'Red Spot JR' in 24 February 2006 when Jupiter's white oval BA turned red
• Worked with the Hubble Team
• Worked with Celestron
• Member of ALP and American Astronomical Society
• Asteroid 2000 EL157 was designated by the IAU as 30100 Christophergo
• Co-author to several astronomy papers
• Conducts lecture/seminars all around the world in astroimaging and processing

---

Dr. Dante Ambrosio Father of Philippine Ethno-astronomy
 (1951-2011)

• Ph. D. in History
• Professor of History at the University of the Philippines
• Pioneered the research on Philippine Ethno-astronomy by documenting local starlore of the Philippines as part of the International Year of Astronomy 2009 objectives
• Research published in his book Balatik: Katutubong Bituin ng mga Pilipino

---

Directory of Philippine Professional Astronomers

The following is a listing of the professional astronomers in the country (those with formal education in astronomy), as well as a listing of the schools & universities they've attended.
[Information added to the best of my knowledge. For additions, corrections, or omissions please send me a message. Thank you.]

Post-Doc/Doctoral Level Those who have completed their post-doc or doctoral work in astronomy/astrophysics.

Dr. Reinabelle Reyes, Ph. D. Post-Doc, Kavli Institute, University of Chicago Ph. D. in Astrophysics, Princeton University Diploma in High Energy Physics, Abdus Salam International Center for Theoretical Physics BS Physics, ADMU	Dr. Jelly Grace Nonesa, Ph. D. Astrophysics, Hiroshima University (2006) Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology MSU-IIT	Dr. Rogel Mari Sese, Ph. D. Ph. D. in Physics specializing in Computational Astrophysics, University of Tsukuba UPLB
Dr. Mithi Alexa de los Reyes, Ph. D. Ph. D. Stanford university Astronomy, California Institute of Technology Physics & Mathematics	Dr. Andreia Carrillo, Ph. D. Ph. D. in Astronomy, University of Texas BS Astronomy and Astrophysics, Michigan University BS Interdisciplinary Physics, Michigan University	Post-Doc Durham University Dr. Jerome Pitogo De Leon, Ph. D. Ph. D. Astronomy, University of Tokyo MS Astronomy, University of Tokyo

Masteral/Graduate Degree Level Those who have completed masteral or other graduate degrees in astronomy/astrophysics.

Dr. Armando Lee, M.D. MS Astronomy, Rizal Technological University	Angelito Sing MS Astronomy, Rizal Technological University	Mark Glen Victorino MS Astronomy, Rizal Technological University (2015)
Reuel Norman Marigza, Jr. MS Astronomy (thesis pending), RTU Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU International School for Young Astronomers, Indonesia BS Physics with emphasis on computer applications, SU	Vanessa Kate (Ramos) Cristo MS Astronomy (thesis pending), RTU Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU BS Physics for teachers, PNU	Lieza Crisostomo MS Astronomy (thesis pending), RTU Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU BS Physics for teachers, PNU
Pamela Luz Labios MS Astronomy (thesis pending), RTU Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU BS Physics for teachers, PNU	Ruby Dela Cruz Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU 2012 Sokendai Winter School, Japan International School for Young Astronomers, Indonesia NARIT-KASI Winter School in Introductory Radio Astronomy, Thailand	Edward Von Delelis Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU
Engr. Joselito Cruz MS Astronomy (thesis pending), RTU Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU	Peejay Lim MS Astronomy (thesis pending), RTU Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU	Dhan Deguia Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU
Mary Ruth Velasco Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU	Jimdel Macapagal Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU	Rosalyn Pen Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU
Ol Honrade Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU	Mark Anthony Honrade Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU	Viridiana Paradas Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU
Frederick Gabriana Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU 2012 Sokendai Winter School, Japan	Ryan Manuel Guido MS Astronomy, RTU Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU NARIT-KASI Winter School in Introductory Radio Astronomy, Thailand	Marielle Eduardo MS Astronomy, National Central University BS Applied Physics, UP Baguio
Hillary Andales Astronomy and Astrophysics, MIT	Frederick Gabriana Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU 2012 Sokendai Winter School, Japan	Ryan Manuel Guido MS Astronomy, RTU Graduate Diploma in Astronomy, RTU NARIT-KASI Winter School in Introductory Radio Astronomy, Thailand

Undergraduate Level Those who have completed undergraduate studies in astronomy/astrophysics.

Frank Kelvin Martinez MS Astronomy (ongoing) BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2012)	Rhayan Coronel MS Astronomy (stopped) BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2012)	Lordnico Mendoza MS Astronomy (stopped) BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2012)
Pauline Pearl Divinagracia International School for Young Astronomers, Indonesia (2013) MS Astronomy (ongoing) NARIT-KASI Winter School in Introductory Radio Astronomy, Thailand BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2013)	Ma. Angela Lourdes Lequiron MS ,Korean Astronomy Space Science Institute (ongoing) International School for Young Astronomers, Thailand (2015) BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2013)	Miguel Artificio MS Astronomy (ongoing) BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2013)
John Christian Lequiron MS Meteorology, UP (ongoing) BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2014)	Princess Tucio BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2014)	Harry Casimir Merrida BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2014)
Girlie Cortez BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2015)	Joanna Marie Cayas BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2015)	John Ariel Marcelino BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2015)
Frank Fitzgerald Batin BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2015)	Mariel Juanillo BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2015)	Mary Crystalline Araracap BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2015)
Rose Ann Bautista BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2015)	Jerome Felicidario BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2015)	Ehmir Cristobal BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2015)
Jhoana Tabios BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2015)	Jerick Pajanustan BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2015)	Andreia Carillo BS Astronomy and Astrophysics, Michigan University
Ren Avell Flores BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)	Margareth Custodio BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)	Aldrin Gabuya BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)
Ben Geronimo BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)	Jhan Curt Fernandez BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)	Macky Villa BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)
Jeron Lamatao BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)	Reynan Campana BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)	Joem Inguito BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)
Sharmae Hajar BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016) International School for Young Astronomers, Thailand (2015)	Michael Figueroa BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)	Mary Grace Arcenal BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)
Joshua Guda BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)	John Paul Arroyo BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)	Paulo de Mesa BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2016)
Julie Anne Delda BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	Jhan Jhan Abel BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	Xyrene Angeles BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)
Paul Arce BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	Carmela Ariñas BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	John Anthony Castillo BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)
Ramcis Allen Chan BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	Jerald Llante De Leon BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	John Nehemiah Dones BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)
Bryan Españo BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	Val Gerald Garrido BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	Jeroh Hiyastro BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)
Princess Catherine Pornea Ilagan BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	Jason Kalaw BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	Lanz Anthonee Lagman BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)
Christine Miranda BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	Ma. Christina Nuñez BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	Jomar Tutor Razo BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)
Abigail Tañola BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	Pauline Grace Viñas BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2017)	Jericissa Amberrose Acha BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)
Sarrah Louise Amando BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Jerald Karl Angelo Barranta BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Mary Margareth Bauyon BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)
Kea Jayne Cabigao BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Julian Carl Maverick Cortes BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Mary Arielle Chenel Dominguez BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)
Rod Mico Charles Enriquez BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Jianro Fadul BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Erika Laine Garcia BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)
Jochelle Micaela Heruela BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Joseph Christian Isidro BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Rogie Logronio BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)
Iela Grace Mojica BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Patrick Christoffer Obsuna BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Phoebe Floralde Pura BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)
Lex Jeremiah Romero BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Jindra San Diego BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Aureanne Nicola Mae Sayos BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)
Ralph Christian Tiburdo BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Dhann Collin Vergara BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Shaun Rodney Farro BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)
Joe Ervin Flores BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	John Robert Quinto BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Marieh Dizon BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)
Mitchie Anne Richelle Kenept BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Jerico Aquino BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Kevin Caravana BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)
Kim Jonathan Isidro BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2018)	Kyra Rumbaua BS Astronomy, NEU (2019)	Kurt Reiner Suarez BS Astronomy, NEU (2019)
Uriel Tumanan BS Astronomy, NEU (2019)	Rozel Abache BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Maryfe Albayda BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)
Jimmylyn Aurillas BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Franchette Amabelle Castillon BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Mary Rose Dacula BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)
Alaine Keith De Leon BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Christian Eduard Demegillo BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Christian John Evangelista BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)
Carlo Jose Evangelista BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Adrian Paul Fernandez BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Earl Gerard Froilan BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)
Christian Mikko Gabaldon BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Grazielle Amnielle Gamab BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	John Mark Jiao BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)
Eleazar Joshua Laguna BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Ella Marie Mallari BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Christelle Jazmine Meneses BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)
Klevin Wayne Dwight Mesia BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Khrist-Wayne Dale Mesia BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Geraldine Neri BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)
Kaye Trisha Dawn Pintor BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Babie Rose Quiniquis BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	John Clarence Niño Sales BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)
Al Santiano BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Krishna Santos BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019) Gian Paulo Santos	Joshue Dan Serapion BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)
Patrick Sotto BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Tara Mae Dominique Tabago BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Kale Xenon Talla BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)
John Vincent Tan BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Ronalyn Tindog BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)	Ariane Robee Torres BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)
Ian Paul Ulep BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2019)
Denzel Nestor Tingzon BS Astronomy Technology, RTU (2023)	Beatrix Marie Rolin Bunani BS Astronomy major in astrophysics, RTU (2023)	Kim Cristine Duka BS Astronomy major in astrophysics, RTU (2023)
Romieleth Espillardo BS Astronomy major in astrophysics, RTU (2023)	Angel Luarenz Garcia BS Astronomy major in astrophysics, RTU (2023)	Merida Torrero BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)
Nica Jobelle Pepito BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Christine Mary Salinas BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Bernabe Tamayo, Jr. BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (20)
Kenshin Mark Robelo BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Marinelle Saldo BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Marc Russel Quintana BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)
Joseph Kent Serandon BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Alexandria Sanchez BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Kent Amiel Tulad BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)
Raela Kay Ramirez BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Jeremy Brian Ricofuerto BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Jairald Sam Mejia BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)
Jasper Mico Tuazon BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Mark John Velmonte BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Aubrey Murillo BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)
Gennice Pua BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Thea Chelsea Mae Moya BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Kenneth Tamonoc BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)
Kye Laurel BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Aldrin Pabas BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Jan Mark Angelo Lingon BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)
Angel Glori BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Nicole Kyla Pasay BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Karla Marize Montiel BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)
Warren Orale BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Jasper Mariblanca BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Joseph Geneta BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)
Sean Miguel Giron BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	John Ray Mindo BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Lyka Ganados BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)
Kyle Angelo Manalo BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Shiena Mae Maravillas BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Richmond Gabrielle Ferre BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)
Hans Matthew Lopez BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Prince Abraham Gacusan BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	John Lester Espinosa BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)
Raven Jethro Lumabas BS Astronomy major in meteorlogical sciences, RTU (2023)	Nicole Dabalos BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	France Justine Bernadette Erguiza BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)
Janaia Cuyong BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Trisha Cardines BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Denice Marie Librea BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)
Mia Grace Ligutan BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Mar Paulo Calamlam BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Ester Icaro BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)
Jerico Bicen BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Aubrey Julia Imperial BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Jaron Rix Fernandez BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)
Ma. Zethalia Hernandez BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Alessandra Kate Fabriga BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Lanz Kal-el Cunanan BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)
Caryl Jade Angelica Brocales BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Von Huey Bayer BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Joshua Beberino BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)
Alan Perry Daen BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Rena Jane Beso BS Astronomy major in meteorological science, RTU (2023)	Prince Bryan Theodore Banzuela BS Astronomy major in space sciene technology, RTU (2023)
Rodelle Bryan Bastero BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Jan Raven Aspacio BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Lorraine Jaye Contado BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)
Shania Joyce Bernabe BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Donna Jane Bernandino BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Mary Kryzhyl Balilla BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)
Joshua Almera BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Mikaela Arevalo BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Marcelo Barrera, Jr. BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)
Alf Emmanuel Bascos BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Aerhon Afurong BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)	Jhan Patrick Baldonado BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)
Hannah Aleja Barcoma BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Jan Noel Amalingan BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Jamelyn Aubrey Avedaño BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)
Rovie Joyce Abion BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Catherine Rae Alipao BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Wynonah Rebutar BS Astronomy major in astrophysics, RTU (2023)
Janielle Earl Rosete BS Astronomy major in astrophysics, RTU (2023)	Shane Carlo Llemit BS Astronomy major in astrophysics, RTU (2023)	Cindy Lou Macahilos BS Astronomy major in astrophysics, RTU (2023)
Peachy Mae Turalba BS Astronomy major in meteorological sciences, RTU (2023)	Trixie Anne Castillo BS Astronomy major in space science technology, RTU (2023)

IAU Individual Members Philippine Members to the International Astronomical Union

	Dr. Jesus Rodrigo Torres, Ph. D. IAU individual member: Member of Division A Fundamental Astronomy Member of Division C Education, Outreach and Heritage Member of Division C Commission 46 Astronomy Education & Development]
	Dr. Cynthia Celebre, Ph. D. IAU individual member: Member of Division C Education, Outreach and Heritage Member of Division C Commission 46 Astronomy Education & Development]
	Dr. Jose Perico Esguerra, Ph. D. IAU individual member: Member of Division A Fundamental Astronomy Member of Division C Education, Outreach and Heritage Member of Division H Interstellar Matter and Local Universe Member of Division A Commission 7 Celestial Mechanics & Dynamical Astronomy Member of Division H Commission 33 Structure & Dynamics of the Galactic System Member of Division C Commission 46 Astronomy Education & Development Member of Division C Commission 55 Communicating Astronomy with the Public
	Dr. Bernardo Soriano, Ph. D. IAU individual member: Member of Division C Education, Outreach and Heritage Member of Division C Commission 46 Astronomy Education & Development
	Dr. Rogel Mari Sese, Ph. D. IAU individual member: Member of Division A Fundamental Astronomy Member of Division B Facilities, Technologies and Data Science Member of Division C Education, Outreach and Heritage Member of Division F Planetary Systems and Bioastronomy Member of Division G Stars and Stellar Physics Member of Division B Commission 40 Radio Astronomy Member of Division C Commission 46 Astronomy Education & Development Member of Division B Commission 50 Protection of Existing & Potential Observatory Sites Member of Division C Commission 55 Communicating Astronomy with the Public
	Dr. Renato Vinluan, Ph. D. IAU individual member (inactive)

*Note: local universities abbreviated
RTU - Rizal Technological University
ADMU - Ateneo De Manila University
UP - University of the Philippines
MSU-IIT - Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology
PNU - Philippine Normal University
SU - Silliman University

Star Trails

Last night I did my first attempt at making star trails. These is one of the shots that must be tried at least once by anyone doing astrophotography/nightskapes. This shot is made by allowing the rotation of the Earth to cause shifts in the apparent position of the stars (rise -> set).

I hit a few bumps, but still the end result was satisfying for a first attempt. Limited by my current gear, each of my subs are taken at the standard 30 second exposure time (I have no shutter-release cable or a shutter remote to maximize the bulb setting). My Nikon D3100 also takes an automatic dark frame subtraction after each exposure, so there is a delay in between the exposures (seen as gaps between each light frame). I learned that you can trick the camera to skipping the dark frame subtraction by turning off the DSLR after each exposure. However, my camera has been acting up and I also wanted all unnecessary contact to be avoided with my setup (I accidentally hit my tripod twice, resulting to the two large gaps in every trail).

The end result makes use of 51 subs totaling to 25.5 mins of exposure. Each of the light frames are manually calibrated in GIMP to produce a clean image. You may use available reduction software from the net to do the calibration for you.

Luna Not So Gray

We know that through atmospheric lensing the lunar surface changes its hue from the normal gray to anywhere between yellowish to red. But did you know that the Moon isn't actually just gray.

The Moon contains subtle hints of color that is not normally seen by our eyes. Photographic methods can bring out these subtle variations of color. These various hues are a result of the chemical distribution and abundance in the lunar surface. The mare regions or the 'seas' (the darker areas) have lower capacity to reflect light because of higher ferrous oxide (FeO) content. The bluish hues are a result of the abundance of titanium oxide (TiO₂) which further limits the surface reflectivity. TiO₂ has a high distribution in Mare Tranquillitatis (Sea of Tranquility); seen in the photo as the blue region. Orange and purplish hues are a result of the lower abundance of TiO₂ and FeO. The pinkish hues are from iron-poor, aluminum-rich lunar highlands.

Here are some other images of the Moon in exaggerated colors to provide contrast from the common Lunar hue:

 

Here is an image entitled 'The Color of the Moon' from APOD (16 February 2006) by Johannes Schedler (Panther Observatory).

 

Not only do ground based observers try to see these colors but spacecraft as well. Here is another one by the Galileo spacecraft imaged in 1992.

- - - April 20, 2019 - - - For those coming to this blog post in relation to the pink Moon - - -

The Pink Moon is merely a name given by the Native Americans to the Full Moon of April due to it coinciding with the onset of the blooming of the pink phlox (a flower in North America). This name and other Moon names do not apply to the Philippines.

Here is my original post caption to this link being shared:
Alright, allow me to weigh on this from an astronomer's perspective.
Friend's in the local astronomy community have been tackling the pink tinted photos being shared on social media with good reason - they are not real and are reinforcing the wrong notion of people on the 'Pink Moon' (even with all the reference to the Pink Phlox in the Native American Moon names).

The Moon actually has pink hues resulting from iron-poor, aluminum rich lunar highlands (and these ARE NOT visually distinguishable). Highlands are the brighter older areas, while the lowlands are the darker spots on the lunar surface.

In this blog post I made in 2015 you can see the distribution of the pink hues on the lunar surface. Now from these you can tell the difference from all these recent pink-hued Moon pics as they are mostly all pink as a result of camera optics and not of the actual color of the Moon. The lack of other hues from chemical distribution in the lunar surface shows that these photos are not representative of the actual Moon.
I've been imaging the Moon since I was in college until I was teaching astronomy in college and have encountered this pink hued Moon images from certain camera models (depending on the setting). Please do not confuse the image color with the actual color of the Moon.

- - - - - - -

 The image set seen here were taken on May 2010 just minutes from each other with a Canon PowerShot S3IS. Slight changes to the camera produced a pink tint in the image color without any post-processing. Although some images appeared pink they do not signify that the Moon itself appeared pink.

Notice how the low-lands are also pinkish in hue when they shouldn't be.