The Aviation Heritage Center located at the Sheboygan Airport is a great place to connect with the history of flight. On March 23, however, buying and selling astronomical equipment will be the highlight. // Aviation Heritage Center of Wisconsin
Do you have a telescope, eyepiece, camera, or other astronomical accessory you want to part with? No? Then how about buying one (or more!) of the same?
On Saturday, March 23, 2019, the Sheboygan Astronomical Society is hosting its 12th annual Swap-n-Sell. This year’s event, like the previous ones, will take place at the Aviation Heritage Center of the Sheboygan Airport in Wisconsin from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For those of you who own a GPS or like to use Google Maps or MapQuest, the address is N6191 Resource Drive, Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin 53085.
Maybe you have some astronomy stuff you no longer use. If so, set up at one of the indoor tables. This event offers a great opportunity for you to sell or perhaps swap your items with other amateur astronomers. And if you’re searching for certain unusual or not-often-seen items, I can assure you that the dealers at the Swap-n-Sell offer plenty of them.
Most visitors, however, stop by to see what kind of deals they can find on more popular new or used equipment. I’ll say that for a relatively small event, the pickings through the years have been pretty good. If you do drop in, be sure to stay awhile to chat with others like yourself. Who knows? You might be tempted to join one of the area’s astronomy clubs. Terms are cash, check, swap, and some sellers even accept charge cards. Oh, and don’t be afraid to haggle a little.
The Sheboygan Astronomical Society’s 12th annual Swap-n-Sell happens March 23. On that date, telescopes, eyepieces, cameras, and a lot more will be for sale. // Michael E. Bakich
In addition to the Swap ’N’ Sell, you’ll also have the opportunity to sit in on talks by two guest speakers. One talk is by noted area amateur astronomer Jeff Setzer. His topic is “3D Printing, the Amateur Astronomer, and Outreach in Unexpected Places.” That sure is an appealing title. Get your seat early.
The other talk is by Kenny Bergschultz. His topic is “Rockets for Schools.” This sounds like a great subject for teachers, parents, and those who are taking the STEM train to higher learning.
This year, as in past ones, you’ll have the chance to win a door prize. They have been donated by Wisconsin Astronomy and Brian Hastings. Hmm. I wonder if I’m eligible to win? Probably not. Oh, well, I’ll just have to wander around buying stuff!
Because this is Wisconsin, there’s always a brat fry and chips and (nonalcoholic) drinks for sale during the event.
Bring some stuff, bring some cash, and bring your love of astronomy. See you there!