ALPO Online Section
Jim Tomney’s journey as an amateur astronomer began in the shadow of the 1960s space race, a time when humanity’s reach for the stars captured the imagination of millions. Fueled by this era of exploration, Jim developed a deep fascination with the cosmos. His first telescope—a 60mm Tasco refractor—became his window to the universe, allowing him to explore the Moon, planets, and star clusters from his backyard.
By age 13, Jim’s enthusiasm for astronomy had grown, leading him to acquire a classic Criterion RV-6 Dynascope reflector, a highly regarded instrument for amateur astronomers of the time. The RV-6 opened up a wealth of new celestial sights, including galaxies, nebulae, and even finer planetary details. Remarkably, Jim still owns and occasionally uses this telescope, which has stood the test of time for over 50 years—a testament to his enduring passion for astronomy.
A Focus on Planetary Observation
While deep-sky objects and stars held their own allure, the planets became Jim’s true passion. Unlike the seemingly unchanging stars, planets offer dynamic and ever-changing views that challenge observers to record as much detail as possible during each session. This fascination led Jim to join the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers (ALPO) in the 1990s. As a member, he contributed his planetary observations, sketches, and notes, becoming an integral part of the ALPO’s mission to advance planetary science through amateur observations.
Contributions to ALPO
In 2020, Jim stepped into a leadership role as the Assistant Coordinator for the ALPO Online Section, where he leveraged his professional background in software development to modernize and enhance the organization’s digital presence. One of his key responsibilities has been curating and managing the ALPO’s extensive online galleries, which house over 36,000 sketches, drawings, and images submitted by members from around the world. His meticulous indexing and dedication to this task ensure these valuable resources remain accessible to the amateur and professional astronomical communities alike.
Modernizing ALPO’s Digital Presence
In the fall of 2022, Jim embarked on an ambitious project to redesign the ALPO website. Recognizing the need for a modern, mobile-friendly platform that could better serve members and attract new enthusiasts, he worked tirelessly to reimagine the site’s design and functionality. The new site launched in the summer of 2023 to widespread praise for its sleek interface, improved usability, and enhanced access to ALPO’s wealth of resources.
Jim’s redesign was more than a cosmetic update; it was a forward-thinking transformation that positioned ALPO to thrive in the digital age. As the organization grows, Jim continues to add new features and fresh content, ensuring the site remains a vibrant hub for the global astronomy community.
Looking Ahead
Jim’s dedication to amateur astronomy and ALPO extends beyond the digital realm. He is committed to fostering the next generation of planetary observers, sharing his passion and knowledge through mentorship and outreach. As ALPO moves into 2025 and beyond, Jim remains at the forefront of its mission, blending his love for the night sky with his technical expertise to inspire and support a global community of observers.
A Legacy of Exploration
Jim Tomney’s lifelong commitment to astronomy reflects a rare blend of passion, perseverance, and innovation. From his early days exploring the heavens with a Tasco refractor to his role in modernizing one of the most respected organizations in amateur astronomy, Jim has left an indelible mark on the field. His work ensures that future generations of stargazers will have the tools, inspiration, and resources to continue exploring the universe for decades to come.
Links
[Return to Directory of Ambassadors]