The Milky Way Galaxy - as Seen with Radio Eyes

Join us for an exciting journey through our latest project, conducted during the cloudy months of 2025. Using affordable, off-the-shelf components, we built a compact radio telescope to detect neutral hydrogen emissions at the 21cm wavelength—allowing us to observe the cosmos rain or shine, day or night. Through meticulous analysis, we’ve measured the velocities of the Milky Way’s spiral arms, unveiling insights into its structure and dynamics. This project has deepened our understanding of our galaxy’s hidden wonders, revealing a universe beyond what the eye can see and clouds can obscure.

You’re warmly invited to join this vibrant new chapter in our amateur astronomy journey, one you too can share in—you won’t want to miss it!

Speakers: Matt Boerlage and Erica Coenen moved from The Netherlands to Houston about 10 years ago. Both hold PhDs in Mechanical Engineering from Eindhoven University of Technology and work in the Houston energy industry.

Their passion for astrophotography ignited two years ago, leading them to join the Houston Astronomical Society. They organize the astronomy outreach nights at the Kleb Woods Nature Preserve.

Matt and Erica’s interests include astrophotography and scientific imaging, with a focus on spectroscopy. Recently, Matt became a member of the AAVSO (American Association of Variable Star Observers). A year ago, Matt & Erica began hosting the monthly Astrophotography Special Interest Group webinars, every third Wednesday of the month.