- Telescope sessions
- Special events/school holidays
- Historic buildings and grounds
- Exhibits
- 3D space theatre
- Beanbag planetarium
- Flagstaff
- Time ball
- Eclipse/astronomy tour 2010
Focus on physics — Einstein for years 11 & 12
Tuesday 9, Thursday 11 and Tuesday 16 February 2010
6–8pm
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 viewing of stars, Saturn, & Jupiter (if weather permits), and light refreshment complete the evening.
Cost: $20 students/adult, $15 Powerhouse Museum member students/adults. Teachers accompanying a minimum of two students are free.
Bookings & prepayments essential on 9921 3485.
Romance under the stars on Valentine’s night
Sunday 14 February
7:30pm – 9:30pm
Create a memorable evening with your partner under the stars this Valentine's night at Sydney Observatory. Enjoy the sweet star-inspired music of Clubjazz while nibbling canapés and sipping champagne or wine. Brave 'Extreme places' in the 3D Space Theatre and experience the ambience of Australia's most important historic observatory. If weather permits you can view the night sky through telescopes outside the observatory and from inside the historic south dome with expert astronomers. Cost: $78 pp inclusive, $75 PHM Members. Bookings: essential, pre-payment required, no refunds or transfers. Parking: Onsite at Fort St Public School closes strictly at 10pm. No extra charge.
To book phone Sydney Observatory: 02 9921 3485 or
Teachers preview
Thursday 18 February
7:30 to 9:30pm
Sample the latest educational programs suitable for students k to 12 along with a light supper, wine and entertainment. Teachers only.
Bookings essential on 9921 3485 or by email.
Earth Hour 2010: the search for Extra-terrestials
Saturday 27 March
7:30pm to 10:00pm
Dr Charlie Lineweaver
2010 is the 50th anniversary of the first SETI observations by Frank Drake (April 1960). Hear leading authority Dr Charlie Lineweaver present what has been uncovered by the research into life on planets outside our solar system.
During Earth Hour (8:30pm to 9:30pm) Sydney Observatory will be switching all the lights off to get, what we hope will be, a dark sky view of Mars and the Moon through telescopes, weather permitting.
Cost: Adults $15, $10 child, $45 family
Bookings are essential. Book by phoning 02 9921 3485 or
Blue Moon night
Tuesday 30 March 2010
10pm – midnight
Blue Moons are rare occasions. This year there are two blue Moons! One in January and another in March and then not another two in one year for 19 years! Book early for this late night event at beautiful Sydney Observatory, overlooking the harbour. The evening will include Moon-inspired jazz, alcoholic beverages and a light supper with telescope viewing and the opportunity to take your own photo of the moon (weather permitting). Saturn will be at its best for the year and nearby the Moon within the same constellation of Virgo. Over 18s only, maximum 150 attendees.
Cost: $85 (includes 2 drinks tokens), $75 Powerhouse members.
Book by phoning 02 9921 3485
SOUTH AMERICA AND EASTER ISLAND
ECLIPSE/ASTRONOMY TOUR
JUNE/JULY 2010
Join astronomers from Sydney Observatory for this opportunity to witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events, a total solar eclipse, in a land of mystery and beauty - Easter Island, as well exploring astronomical beliefs in South America in this 17-day tour. More...