Curious about the night sky? Interested in learning to use a telescope or camera to explore the Milky Way? Wondering what stars are made of, or what there is to see on the Moon? Then come along…
Join local astronomers Dr Larry Field and Brian Horsfall for informal and relaxed astronomy evenings. Each gathering will explore a different topic — from constellations and the Milky Way to stars, deep sky treasures, telescopes, observing gear and astrophotography.
Meet: Kaikōura Museum
Time: 5.30pm – 6.30pm
When: Happening on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday from May to July. Come along to one talk or join them all.
- 12 & 26 May
- 9 & 23 June
- 14 & 28 July
Who: Suitable for high school age and up
Cost: Free to attend. Suggested koha to support the museum
Hosted by the Kaikōura Museum and the Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust.
For updates and talk information keep an eye on our facebook pages or email us: https://www.facebook.com/DarkSkyKaikoura and https://www.facebook.com/kaikouramuseum
Suggested Talk Topics:
Proposed topics to be covered through the series. To be confirmed ahead of each session.
Tuesday 12th May
What Is In The Night Sky and How Can We See It?
An introduction to the layers of the universe from our solar system to distant galaxies, and how we observe them with both our eyes and telescopes.
Tuesday 26th May
Putting Astronomy Into Practice
Tips for observing comfortably at night, understanding dark adaptation, learning constellations and using charts and smartphone apps.
Tuesday 9th June
Finding your way in the sky, learn about the MilkyWay and more.
Introduction to celestial coordinates and times compared to those of Earth. How do astronomers know precisely where and when to find objects in the night sky, and why do constellations change with the seasons? We will then explore the features of our Milky Way galaxy, and learn some more constellations plus the deep sky objects found in them.
What Are Stars?
Learn how stars form, how they produce energy, why they vary in colour and size, and how they evolve over time.
Death of Stars, Black Holes and Deep Sky Objects
From planetary nebulae and supernovae to black holes, galaxies and star clusters — discover some of the most fascinating objects in space.
Telescopes, Equipment and Astrophotography
A practical introduction to telescopes, eyepieces, observing gear and photographing the night sky.
Gallery of Inspiration:
