Explore Mars, our Galaxy and Beyond

Learn about the universe from the university for the real world. Enjoy panel discussions and Q&A with QUT experts Associate Professor David Flannery, Associate Professor Selen Turkay and Dr Michael Cowley.

Immerse yourself in interactive displays, showing how astronomers captured the night sky before space observatories, videos of Mars exploration, and virtual reality exploration of geology and space. There is also the chance to visit the rooftop observatory and view planets through our telescopes*.

Associate Professor David Flannery

Space scientist, astrobiologist and long term planner for the NASA’s 2020 Mars Perseverance Rover Mission searching for signs of ancient life. View profile

Associate Professor Selen Turkay

Computer scientist and VR expert who studies human computer interaction and user experiences including engagement and motivation. View profile

Dr Michael Cowley

Astrophysicist researching extragalactic astronomy and cosmology in galaxy evolution and supermassive black holes. View profile

Ticketing information:

SEMINAR ONLY TICKETS INCLUDE: access to Seminar ONLY

SEMINAR + ROOFTOP OBSERVATORY TICKETS INCLUDE: access to Seminar AND time allocated ROOFTOP OBSERVATORY access.

Please note regarding Rooftop Observatory visit admission:

A strictly limited number of Observatory tickets are available. 
Visits will be staged in 3 groups in set timeslots of 6:20pm, 6:45pm and 7:10pm. Please select the ticket for the time you would like to visit. 

Please be aware groups will leave promptly at the allocated time, late arrivals cannot be guaranteed access and you will not be able to join a later group.

The Rooftop Observatory visit is dependent upon weather conditions on the event day. No access is permitted during lightning/thunderstorms. The rooftop visit involves access by stairs, darkened areas, uneven surfaces, slippery surfaces, trip hazards, overhead obstacles and risk of hand entanglement. No eating or drinking is permitted. Flat, fully enclosed shoes are mandatory. Numbers for this guided experience are limited.