Sydney City Skywatchers – an astronomy group for locals
6:30pm, first Monday of the month
in Sydney Observatory’s basement Discovery Room
Join the oldest operating astronomical group in Sydney. The group provides an opportunity for those interested in astronomy to share and broaden their interest in the sky. People at all levels are catered for from beginners to serious amateur astronomers. Whether you want to just listen to a monthly lecture or to discuss serious observing through a telescope, this is the club for you.

These meetings usually consist of brief reports of observations made during the month by club members and a presentation from a guest speaker followed by a light supper. There is a $2 fee for each meeting.

Eta Carinae: a star at the centre of exploration and colonisation
6.30pm, Monday 7 May 2012
Presented by Alan Plummer
A light curve carries more information than simple brightness. In this special presentation, Alan Plummer will explain how the historical light curve of ETA Carinae gives insights into the European exploration of the southern seas, the establishing of the first southern observatories at Saint Helena and the Cape of Good Hope, and highlights the colonisation of South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. This story is told – briefly – by looking at the people who made these historically important estimates. The evolution of massive stars is also briefly described.

Alan Plummer is a published astronomer who has a long association with Sydney City Skywatchers. He is also a classical musician and combines both passions wherever possible.

Eta Carinae is shown by an arrow in this detail from the 17th century celestial map by Johannes Hevelius currently on display at Sydney Observatory

Talks are followed by supper ($2 donation)

Open to Members and everyone who is passionate about astronomy. It is possible to join Sydney City Skywatchers on the evening or take home a membership form.
Bookings not required.

William John Macdonnell, Mrs Macdonnell, Nathanial Basnett and G. D Hirst in front of W. J. Macdonnell’s private observatory in Mosman, c.1907. Macdonnell was a leading member of the NSW branch of the British Astronomical Association.