MICHAEL BENEDICT CHAPMAN 1961 – 2026

It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of Michael Chapman, Life Member and Past President of Sydney City Skywatchers (formerly BAA NSW Branch) on Monday 9^th March 2026.

Michael was a long standing and active member of Sydney City Skywatchers (SCS). He served as President in two prodigious periods, from 1998 – 2000 and again from 2003-2016. It was under his second stint as President that he set the wheels in motion to change the club’s name from BAA NSW Branch to Sydney City Skywatchers to better reflect the ideals of the club and who we are. At this time Michael also used his comprehensive skills in computer technology to design and instigate the club’s first website bringing SCS in line with the growing electronic generation. Under his guidance the club flourished and grew into the vibrant and active organisation we have today.

NSW Branch Centenary 1995, Michael Chapman centre, photo courtesy N. Lomb

Michael was granted Life Membership of SCS in 2016 for his many years of service to the club both on the Committee and as an ardent member. He often gave the keynote talk at our monthly meetings and enjoyed communicating his immense knowledge of astronomy, particularly on variable stars.

SOLIS at the Opera, (right to left) Nick Lomb, Mike Chapman, Ken Petersen. Photo courtesy N. Lomb.

Michael’s love of astronomy was evident to those who knew him. He was passionate about the problem of light pollution and a forceful proponent for dark skies. He was one of the founding members of Sydney Outdoor Lighting Improvement Society (SOLIS) and was also involved with Dark Sky Victoria (DSV) who remember him as a strong advocate for helping DSV with its mandate to educate and influence. He worked tirelessly to combat the increasing problem of light pollution in Sydney and Australia. The title image for this post shows Michael presenting a talk at the 2014 Australian Smart Lighting conference held in Melbourne.

Mike Chapman (wearing a white shirt and standing) at Nick Lomb’s retirement, 2009. Photo courtesy N. Lomb.

In 2017 Michael left Sydney and moved to Armidale, where he joined the UNE and Northern Tablelands Astronomical Society (UNETAS). Again, his enthusiasm for astronomy came to the fore and he served as Vice President. He was a loyal and valued member of the club.

Apart from astronomy Michael’s other hobby was model railways. He was a keen enthusiast and belonged to the Model Railway Club.

Unfortunately, Michael’s health had declined in the past few years. He passed away peacefully in hospital after a long illness. Michael is survived by his sisters Maureen and Maria and nephews Christopher and Matthew.

Sydney City Skywatchers extends its deep condolences to the Chapman family.

We have lost an enthusiastic amateur astronomer, keen observer, valued club member.  RIP Michael.

Elizabeth Cocking

Secretary

Sydney Skywatchers