Sir Patrick Moore 1923-2012

In twenty three a star was born, A supernova amateur Amongst a galaxy of pros. Self-taught, he’d gain respect from all. His generous spirit helped the young With finance and encouragement Inspired a post-war generation Of graduate astronomers. So many aspects to his life : A TV personality, Cheerful monocled professor, Enthusiastic cricketer (He bowled a vicious Chinaman !), A guardian of the animal world, Composer and musician, Stargazer extraordinaire. The sky at night is now less bright – A knight is missing from the sky. Our shining Patrick is no more, His bright infectious chatter, gone. On life outside the solar system There’ll always be much speculation, But he would keep an open mind, When pressed on beings, alien. He’d fix you with his glassy stare And with that enigmatic smile Pronounce his mantra clear and slow To those who’d ask : “We just don’t know” !