Just in case some do not know yet ...
Many of us are very familiar with the wonderful things Attilla Danko has done for astronomy in Canada -- from telescopes to recumbent bikes.
Attilla recently left this world, and we are less for his passing. He passed on Nov. 28, of lung cancer -- even though he was a non-smoker.
Many of us have been using his Clear Sky Chart for years ... and in recognition of his service to astronomy, asteroid 161693 Attilladanko (2006 HL46) is named in his honour.
As for the future of the Clear Sky Chart site, please his wife's note here ...
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https://www.cleardarksky.com/personal/index.html
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Here is a link to his obituary ...
https://www.ottawacremationservice.ca/obituaries/Attilla-Gabor-Danko?obId=33918646
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Yes, he had a wonderful sense of humour.
Here is a link to a spoof of the Monty Python Yorkshiremen skit he wrote ...
https://www.cleardarksky.com/fourobservers.html
Jeff
Thanks for posting Ingrid's update to the Clear Sky Chart.
It was shared with a few of us that Attilla was in palliative care in November and when we heard about his passing we dedicated the December general meeting to him. We played his talk from May 2020 where he took a closer look at various telescopes. The link can be found here: https://youtu.be/dqaOGFUwtyA?si=hYo7iloTkubSP-SC (https://youtu.be/dqaOGFUwtyA?si=hYo7iloTkubSP-SC).
Here is the introduction we gave providing tribute to his legacy:
I start by acknowledging that this evening's presentation carries a special significance for the Hamilton Centre. It is both a celebration of the incredible contributions of Attilla Gabor Danko and an opportunity to reflect on the lasting impact he has had on the astronomy community. Attilla passed away in late November after a battle with lung cancer and we are deeply saddened at his loss.
You may know Attilla as one of our Centre's most generous benefactors, having lovingly modifying and upgrading his beloved 36" Starstructure-Fullum Dobsonian telescope - with which he set out with a mission to share the views with 50,000 eyes through that scope. In September of 2022 he generously donated the scope to our Centre during our time of need and it is now the centerpiece at our Friday Night Sights and outreach programs. We have committed to carry on on Attilla's mission, and as in the past, the telescope will continue to be a staple at Starfest, in Ayton Ontario. The gift he's given us will help us to carry out our mission of bringing astronomy to the Hamilton and surrounding community.
For those unfamiliar, Attilla Danko was a beloved member of the Canadian amateur astronomy community, known for his pioneering work in creating the Clear Sky Chart—a tool that has become indispensable for astronomers across North America. Through this creation, Attilla transformed weather forecasting into a tailored tool for astronomers, enabling countless enthusiasts to plan their observing sessions with precision. His work exemplified not only technical ingenuity but also a deep commitment to making astronomy accessible and enjoyable for all. A guiding mandate that we share at the Hamilton RASC.
In addition to his technical achievements, Attilla was a dedicated and vibrant member of the Ottawa Valley Astronomy and Observers Group and the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. He was also a frequent contributor to the Ottawa Astronomy Friends forums, where his insightful commentary and wit left a mark on many. He was so dedicated to his love of astronomy and helping others that he was even organizing outreach and directing conversation on OVAOG forum into early November. His legacy continues to inspire astronomers of all levels, reminding us of the joy and camaraderie that come with sharing the night sky.
Tonight, we are privileged to view a recording of Attilla's presentation from May 15, 2020, as part of a joint International Astronomy Day event held by the three aforementioned groups. This presentation is a testament to his passion for teaching and his ability to bring the wonders of the universe closer to us. With it, you'll have a chance to hear and observe Attilla's sharp sense of humor. Though Attilla is no longer with us, his voice and vision remain alive in the work he shared so generously.
As we begin, let us take a moment to remember Attilla Danko not only for his extraordinary contributions to astronomy but also for the enthusiasm and generosity of spirit that made him a cherished member of our community. Please enjoy the presentation, "A Closer Look at Telescopes," and let it remind us all of the beauty and inspiration that brought us together here tonight.
We hope you're watching us from your minor planet 161693 AttilaDanko
Let's take this moment to reflect, learn, and honor his legacy.