Windsor Run's Astronomy Club Reaches for the Stars

When Benton and Patty Kesler moved to Windsor Run, an Erickson Senior Living community in Matthews, N.C., Benton was eager to find neighbors who shared his lifelong passion for astronomy.

So, in 2022, he founded the Windsor Run Trail Astronomy Club--now one of the community's fastest-growing groups.

Today, Benton, affectionately nicknamed "The Star Man," couldn't be happier.

"My favorite part of the group is talking with people, sharing my interest, answering questions, and sparking new curiosity about the stars and sky," he says. "Astronomy has always been a hobby for me. Because I think it's fun, I want others to find joy in it too."

Stargazing

The club meets monthly in Windsor Run's theater for discussions, lectures, and--thanks to Benton's telescopes--views of the night sky.

"Our monthly program begins with a discussion of what can currently be seen overhead," Benton explains. "We then move into a presentation, often with a guest speaker, on a specific topic."

Recent programs have included a series on constellations, including their origins, names, and locations, as well as an exploration of the planets. Other themes have ranged from archaeological discoveries related to astronomy to the movement of the sky, the stars and moon, and the science behind solar and lunar eclipses.

A broad audience

The club welcomes all residents, regardless of prior knowledge. "While some members are quite knowledgeable, most are simply curious and eager to learn," Benton notes.

Club member Larry Danziger appreciates the opportunity to spend time enjoying his lifelong love of astronomy.

"It was through my mother's influence that I became infatuated with astronomy," he says. "I enjoy every club meeting because there is always something new to learn. Scientists are always discovering new information about our solar system, the galaxy, and the universe as more and more sophisticated devices are deployed. Keeping up with the latest information keeps your mind active and your curiosity satisfied."

For Susan DeWalt, who joined the club shortly after moving to Windsor Run in 2024, the meetings have been eye-opening.

"My motto has long been, 'Be curious,'" she says. "Now, right here on campus, I can learn about astronomy. Benton works tirelessly planning our meetings and, with the help of his telescopes, takes us into the world of outer space."

Expanding horizons

Beyond monthly meetings, Benton organizes astronomy walks on the community's trail, inviting residents, staff members, and family members to learn more about the sky in the great outdoors.

"My goal is to create activities that we can enjoy together outside," he says. "Going out onto the Windsor Run trail and looking from southeast to northwest, we have a 270-degree view of the night sky. By planning ahead, we've been able to observe the International Space Station and take part in NASA's National Observe the Moon Night."

During the solar eclipse in April 2024, the club presented a program on eclipses in preparation for the event, sharing important information on how to safely observe an eclipse. On the day of the eclipse, the club distributed solar viewing glasses to the almost 400 people who came to watch.

"The solar eclipse was quite an event," recalls Susan. "Benton placed his telescopes out on the patio, and the eclipse was also broadcast in our theater. And, using a very large strainer from our kitchen, we could see the eclipse in miniature multi-images!"

The club also organizes live solar viewings during Windsor Run's Earth Day celebrations and hosts courtyard "wine and moon" gatherings, where residents watch the eclipsed moon turn red through Benton's telescopes. Monthly "star parties" on the trail allow members to observe planets, nebulae, and other celestial sights.

Benton also photographs the night sky, sharing images with those unable to attend meetings or events in person.

Learning together

Each month, the club writes an article for The Pulse, the resident newsletter, detailing upcoming events that members can look forward to.

According to Benton, the only requirement to take part in astronomy club activities is curiosity. "Anyone interested in joining our group is always welcome to join us--just reach out. We are a very welcoming group," he says.

Larry agrees wholeheartedly. "If you have even the slightest interest in our universe and how we fit into it, this is the place to be," he says. "Benton explains everything in the clearest terms possible."

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By Kelly Shue