Astronomy club approved

A new club at Mt. Hood has been formed for star lovers and space geeks alike: the Astronomy Club.

Travis Shiprack, founding president, said the club wants “to bring the stars to everyone.”

For club outings, Shiprack said the group may ask Pat Hanrahan, MHCC Planetarium director, to present a special show, or for the group to attend one of the many “star parties” in the state.

About eight people have shown up for club meetings, with others who have “expressed interest,” he said.

The club’s advisers are Michael Russell, Mt. Hood chemistry instructor, and Brenda Wise, MHCC Science Lab coordinator. Shiprack said one has nearly finished building a telescope that could be used for club activities.

On Tuesday, ASG’s executive cabinet approved the club’s charter, and on Thursday it won final approval from the student senate. The next step for the club will to prepare a funding request and begin planning events.

Shiprack says he believes this club is important for Mt. Hood, especially because of the school’s astronomy program.

“MHCC has a lot more to offer as far as astronomy goes than basically any other school in the state of Oregon. I think we should be proud of it and take full advantage of it,” he said.

Club meetings are scheduled from noon to 1 p.m. Thursdays in AC2556, the science department conference room.