Congratulations to Dr Ken Wishaw for being recognised by the Queensland amateur astronomy community for research into human eye dark adaptation and the effects of red/amber light on adaptation speed and effectiveness. During 2018 Ken conduced research with volunteer astronomers at the Queensland Astrofest and Sunshine Coast BAS astronomy evenings, held at the Maleny Golf Club. His research found that the common red-wavelength light astronomers have been using for decades to protect night vision and speed dark adaptation, may not be the most efficient wavelength for in-door and at-the-scope lighting. Ken found that a more amber/orange wavelength may in fact be a better option.  Read more on the details of Ken’s research HERE.

Ken was recognised for this research at the 2019 Queensland Combined Astronomy Societies meeting held on December 6th at the University of Queensland. Well done Ken.

Ken also delivered an excellent talk at the meeting outlining the formation, objectives and recent achievements of the Australasian Dark Sky Alliance.  Ken is one of the founding members of this initiative to help protect the night skies of Australia from the ravages of light pollution. Again, well done Ken.