22. - 24.03.2013 - Hannover

Frank Killich presented his polarization measurements on rainbows and halos. With software, it is possible to analyze the polarization of celestial objects, demonstrated through some examples. The 3D images, which could be viewed with glasses, were impressive. After a coffee break where several topics could be discussed in more detail, Bernd Gährken gave an impressive report on auroras at the North Cape. During a trip with several companions in this region, spectacular phenomena could be observed on some nights. Afterwards, Daniel Fischer presented aurora observations on the Hurtigruten in front of Norway. If you book such a trip, you are always treated to something in the sky.

The lunch break was very vegetarian, but at the Nature Friends House, the pleasant atmosphere prevailed. Afterward, some brave individuals took a short hike in the nearby area. Despite the activity, it didn't get much warmer, but by then the group had already arrived back at the general meeting. The focus was a review of the activities in the past year. There was also a vote on the membership fee for the next year, which remains constant despite cost increases in some items. Then, Anke Hamann and Manfred Heinrich presented a year in review of the observed phenomena and auroras. This was very impressive and showed the diverse facets that can be observed in the sky if one takes the time to look for them. Bernd Gährken, in his lecture on lunar impacts, demonstrated the difficulty of proving such an event. If one has the necessary time and patience, interesting results can be expected. Sirko Molau then provided a review of video observations of meteors in the last year. There was, of course, a significant increase in observed meteors, and the network was continuously expanded. Saturday concluded with two lectures: "2012 Atmospheric Phenomena Year in Review" by Claudia and Wolfgang Hinz in the usual comprehensive form as well as "2012 Year in Review" by Christoph Gerber, who unfortunately could not attend, and whose lecture was held by Reinhard Nitze. Afterward, there was ample opportunity to reflect on the day.