Welcome to the Chen Family home page! My name is Alan and I've chosen this latest format as a representation of our family's interest in sci-fi, astronomy and generally anything that is hi-tech! I currently work as an engineer for Bell Labs by day, but turn to the skies at night!

As you've probably guessed, my main hobby, among too many, is astronomy. I've been in and around telescopes since I've been about 10 years old, learning to star hop with a 60mm Montgomery Wards refractor. I've progressed quite far since that 60mm and currently use a Meade 12" LX200 SCT for my visual and imaging requirements. Check out my astronomy page for my latest attempts at ccd imaging and the equipment I used to generate those images. Several links that helped to get me started into ccd imaging are also included.

Louise, my wife, is a computer applications wiz, specializing in photo and presentation software. Like myself, she is also an engineer by training (chemical), but retired quite a few years ago to raise sons 1 and 2! She is currently the publicist for Gotha Middle School and on the county PTSA board, volunteering her time in those activities. She's also creating the yearbook for the school this year (not her first) and is very much into family geneology. Her web site, when generated, will be incorporating some of her findings.

My two sons are both computer junkies, but what would you expect! They are both into Robotech, Macross, computer gaming, art, and anime among other things. They want everyone to know that they have pages dedicated to their interests. Check out our teen's site(s) for new items!

Please email me if you have any questions or comments!

Intropage ccd image: M42 taken by my son Michael and I on the 80mm refractor, piggybacked on the 12"SC