Event description
PROGRAMME DESCRIPTION
This event is hosted by the Dunedin Astronomical Society to celebrate 100 years of astronomical observation and promoting astronomy at the BBO..
The night will be officially opened by Dunedin mayor Aaron Hawkins followed by a DAS member talking about the history and some of the unique milestones achieved at the BBO in the last 100 years. We will have an update on the James Webb Space Telescope by Scott Acton who worked as an engineer on the JWST.
Weather permitting, one of our members will give a night sky tour in Robin Hood Park. You will witness the many wonders of the southern night sky and get to travel to the far off edges of our universe.
We will observe some fascinating star clusters and nebulae through telescopes that will be set up around Robin Hood Park. We will also locate some binary star systems and constellations of the southern sky. You can also inspect the observatory and learn about the science happening in the Beverly-Begg Observatory, including chasing near-earth objects and finding exoplanets in the far-off star systems of our galaxy.
We will be running a hot chocolate stand to help you stay warm throughout the night.
As this is an outdoor event, we recommend you dress in warm clothing – layer up. Hats, beanies and gloves go a long way. Also, please feel free to bring blankets and camping chairs to sit down, relax, and indulge in the beauty of the night sky.
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
Time | Event |
7:00 – 7:10 | Mayor Aaron Hawkins opening |
7:10 – 7:30 PM | The 100 years of the BBO – our milestones and achievements |
7:30 – 8:30 PM | Scott Acton - James Webb Space Telescope update |
8:30 – 9:00 PM | Tour of the night sky |
9:00 – 10:00 PM | Stargazing and Observatory Tour |