ICY SCIENCE QUARTERLY MAGAZINE VOL 1 ISSUE 1 | Page 94

94 A new astronomy project on crowdfunding website Kickstarter has successfully raised funds to publish a novel pocked-sized astronomical guide in time for Christmas. The Astronomy Diary, described as a “What’s On” guide for the night sky, gives weekly recommendations for observat ions and must-see celestial events The diary aims to spark a lasting interest in astronomy in both adult and child newcomers, but could also act as a handy aide to more experienced observers. “Astronomy is a bug we’d love to share with everyone” says Kate Harrington, one of the authors, “and we hope the diary will nudge others to explore the night sky.” The idea seems to have caught on, with hundreds of enthusiasts pledging their support on Kickstarter through October and November. ICY SCIENCE | WINTER 2013- 2014