RASC members will be saddened to learn that one of our most distinguished contributors to the Observer's Handbook has recently passed away.

He was the long-time Director of the International Astronomical Union’s (IAU) Central Bureau for Astronomical Telegrams (CBAT), and of the IAU's Minor Planet Centre (MPC). Any RASC member who discovered a comet, nova, or supernova, or contributed quality positional, photometric, or spectrographic data on new objects had cause to appreciate the intelligence, efficiency, and obligation of Dr. Marsden and his highly professional staff. Dr. Marsden also contributed to the Journal. He was a great supporter of pro-am collaborations and quality amateur work. Asteroid 1877 Marsden (1971 FC) was named in his honour, and a short-period group of comets that he was instrumental in defining also bears his name, the Marsden Group.