On October 12, 2016 IAU Astronomical Society marked its inauguration as an official student-organization. The club also inducted their first-ever set of officers working together under the leadership of their President, Karl Joseph Zialcita (BSAE IV). The list of officers includes Mike Dowell P. Macapondag (BSAE-IV) as Secretary, Nigel S. Ramos (BSAE IV) as Treasurer, Amir Waedueramae (BSAE IV) as Equipment Officer, Julie Jane T. (Pamunag BSAE-V) as Communications Officer and Michelle Rae J. Mendoza (BSAE-V) as Coordination Officer.
Engineer Johnny Destacamento, Department Head of the College of Aerospace Engineering, expressed in his welcome remarks that they are privileged to have founded an astronomy club. Indiana Aerospace University is the second of the only two universities in Cebu to have an astronomy club. The introduction of the club was delivered by Lance Cruz, a graduating AE major.He pointed out that the principal purpose of the club is to be at the forefront in the study and development of the country’s space science. He further presented their vision and mission.
Highlighting the event was the turnover ceremony of the astronomical instruments acquired by the Administration. Present at the ceremony were Chief Executive Officer of IAU Mr. Harold Toring, Dr. Nonita P. Legaspi, Dean of Colleges, and Ms. Maria Luz G. Cahayagan, Student Affairs Officer. They turned over a Power Seeker 70EQ telescope and a Celestron Cometron 7×50 binocular to the club’s Equipment Officer, Amir Waedueramae.
Dr. Legaspi emboldened the members of the organization to soar for greater heights and flourish along with the already established astronomical clubs in well-known universities. As regards the new instruments,she quipped that they are priceless and expressed her gratitude to Mr. Harold E. Toring for the unwavering support. Mr. Toring also received a token of appreciation from the club.
The event clinched with the closing remarks of the club adviser, Engr. Edjie A. Galeos. He assured that they will do their best to bring honor and pride to the school as they endeavor to be recognized locally, nationally and internationally. He furthered that the club will also do its part in maximizing the use of the equipment to achieve its goals.
The IAU Astronomical Society will soon open its doors to aspiring members outside the Aerospace Engineering department. Engr. Galeos has already advised those aspirants to keep in touch with them for further announcements regarding the application.
