Adult astronomy courses

2010 ADULT ASTRONOMY COURSES
Fulfil your dreams and make 2010 the year you really engage with astronomy! Sydney Observatory offers a range of courses, held throughout the year, on easily accessible Observatory Hill.

Exploring the heavens
Tuesday 3 August - 31 August, 6pm to 8pm
Thursday 5 August - 2 September, 6pm to 8pm
Instructor: Dr Paul Payne
This highly engaging introduction to astronomy provides a memorable understanding of the planets, stars and constellations of our night sky. A short history of astronomy gives context, and an exploration about different types of telescopes - some of which you'll use (weather permitting) to explore the night sky. Paul uses 3-D virtual reality media to bring astronomy alive in a way that is not possible with a textbook or Powerpoint presentation.
$150 adults, $130 members & school teachers
to make a booking, phone 9921 3485 between 10am–5pm or
book online

Hands-on the Universe
Wednesdays 18 August – 22 September
6pm to 8pm for 6 weeks
Instructors: Melissa Hulbert BSC (Hons), Des Barrett BSc MSc, Dr Andrew Jacob
In this hands-on introductory course we consider some of the exciting concepts of modern astronomy such as the birth and death of stars, the search for life and the mysterious dark matter that permeates the Universe. What can you see in the winter night sky apart from the Moon and planets and how do you find them? How can you take your own stunning photographs of the night sky? There is time to view through Sydney Observatory’s telescopes. No prior knowledge is required.
$157 adults, $143 conc, members. Book through WEA for this course only.
Phone the WEA on 9264 2781.

Focus on physics — Einstein for years 11 & 12
Tuesdays or Thursdays throughout 2010 by appointment only
Minimum 20 students
6–8pm
Instructor: Dr Paul Payne
It's been over 100 years since Einstein released his special theory of relativity. Although a century old, this theory is our best description of the way space and time work together. Dr Paul Payne will demonstrate the concepts through entertaining multimedia animations and demonstrations suitable for all those interested, especially years 11/12 Physics. A short break with celestial viewing of stars, the Moon and planets where possible, and light refreshment complete the evening.
Cost: $20 students. A maximum of two teachers accompanying students are free.
Bookings essential on 9921 3485.

All courses must be booked by pre-payment. Purchase a course for yourself or as a gift, by phoning Sydney Observatory between 10am–5pm on 9921 3485 (except for the WEA course, 'Hands-on night sky' which needs to be booked through WEA, see above).