Members’ Talks: The Legacy of Camille Flammarion & The Art of Astrophotography, by Tony Milon and Tej Dyal - 24th October 2024

Updated: Oct 26

Tony and Tej gave us talks on two very different subjects, yet both managed to captivate us with history and artistry in fascinating ways.

Mark introduces our Members' Talks Evening - picture by Mike Meynell

Tony spoke about Camille Flammarion, the French astronomer (1842–1925) who began his career at the Paris Observatory at just 16. His wide-ranging interests in the natural world led him through a varied career, from working as an engraver to joining the bureau of calculations - despite his noted dislike of mathematics! Driven by a desire to observe directly, he eventually gained telescope access and drew the remarkable Comet Donati in 1858. His first book, The Plurality of Inhabited Worlds, proposed life elsewhere in the Solar System, signalling the start of a prolific writing career. Flammarion authored numerous works, including science fiction and star catalogues, and even explored astrophotography, producing both detailed drawings and artworks in their own right. An amazing and multi-talented astronomer indeed.

Tony Milon gives his talk about Camille Flammarion

Tej spoke about astrophotography as an art form, showcasing incredible images, including some from our own members, and inspiring us to capture not only images but also the stories behind them. His talk offered insight into the dedication required to capture that one perfect shot. A standout image displayed the crescent Moon over Plumstead at the start of Eid, a photograph enriched with meaning through its backstory. Astrophotography, Tej explained, is about seizing unique moments - like the Sun over Stonehenge or a golden sunrise over the sea. He also introduced us to software that can help plan these shots, including some he developed himself.

Tej Dyal during his astrophotography talk

We hope to hear from both Tony and Tej again!

I encourage other members to consider giving talks as well, so do get in touch if you have ideas or topics you'd like to share. And be sure to watch the videos when they’re posted on the website.

Some additional information provided by Tej Dyal regarding his talk:

In addition to his talk, Tej provided some fascinating insights on lesser-known figures and resources in astronomy and astrophotography:

Emma Converse - Known as the "Astropoet" of the 19th century, Converse has no Wikipedia entry and was virtually unknown until rediscovered by writer and poet Maria Popova, who shared Emma’s work on her popular blog, The Marginalian (formerly Brain Pickings). Converse’s poetic descriptions of the cosmos, particularly her writing inspired by Etienne Leopold Trouvelot’s astro-paintings, made her a kind of "Carl Sagan" of her time. Popova and researcher Mary Dooley are championing Converse’s legacy, bringing attention to this forgotten woman who popularised astronomy through her eloquent prose in 19th-century newspapers and magazines.

The Lost Art of Astropoetics: An 1881 Cosmic Masterpiece by the Forgotten Woman Who Popularized Astronomy – The Marginalian

Encke’s Comet, Celestial Poetics, and the Dawn of Popular Astronomy: How Emma Converse Became the Carl Sagan of the 19th Century – The Marginalian

Emma Converse: The Beauty of the Night Sky - Women with Science (referencing Popova's research)

Étienne Léopold Trouvelot - A well-documented astronomer and artist, Trouvelot’s celestial illustrations helped to bring astronomy into the mainstream. His intricate and vivid 19th-century drawings of celestial objects remain influential, and many sources, including The Marginalian and the Smithsonian, showcase his work.

Étienne Léopold Trouvelot’s Stunning 19th-Century Astronomical Drawings of Celestial Objects and Phenomena – The Marginalian

These Depictions of Celestial Wonders Helped Make Astronomy Mainstream | Smithsonian Voices | National Air and Space Museum Smithsonian Magazine

Szabolcs Nagy (aka Szabi) - An acquaintance from Tej’s Baker Street Irregulars group, Szabolcs gained recognition for his remarkable ISS photography. His work has been spotlighted by Sky at Night and even acknowledged by ISS astronaut Colonel Chris Hadfield. Szabi’s galleries and tutorials offer excellent resources for those interested in photographing the International Space Station.

Malcolm Porter, Mike Meynell and Bobby Manoo - These valued Flamsteed members have made significant contributions to our society’s astrophotography efforts. Their work, which includes tutorials, galleries, and other resources, can be viewed on platforms such as Flickr.

Alyn Wallace - The late Alyn Wallace, an internationally renowned astrophotographer and tutor, left a lasting legacy in the global astro-imaging community. His YouTube channel and photography tutorials continue to inspire and educate, offering a wealth of knowledge for those looking to develop their skills in capturing the night sky.