Sydney City Skywatchers
6:30pm till about 8:30pm, first Monday of the month
in Sydney Observatory’s basement Discovery Room
William Macdonnell’s observatory in Mosman. He was a leading member of the NSW branch of the British Astronomical Association – a forerunner of the Sydney City Skywatchers
We encourage new members to join, no experience is necessary!
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 listen to a lecture or discuss serious observing through a telescope, this is the club for you.
These meetings usually begin with brief reports of observations made during the month by club members, followed by either a presentation from a guest speaker or telescope viewing followed by a light supper. We provide information below about special presentations. There is a $2 fee for each meeting (to cover the cost of the light supper). Bookings are not required.
The following program is a taste of what is to come (it may change)
3 June, 6:30pm
Astronomy from the high Antarctic plateau: A PhD student’s perspective
A cool shot of Geoff Sims
In spite of the harsh weather and working conditions, Antarctica is one of the best locations on Earth for many types of astronomy. In this presentation, Geoff, one of our regular Observatory astronomy guides, will talk about the research he has been involved with during his Ph.D, which aims to better our understanding of proposed observing locations throughout Antarctica. He will also describe his experiences during the recent (2012-2013) expedition, where they camped at the driest and coldest place on the high Antarctic plateau, “Ridge A”, to service a robotic astronomical observatory.
A bright tent on the vast Antarctic plain
-
Bookings not required. Open to members and everyone who is passionate about astronomy. New members welcome. It is possible to join Sydney City Skywatchers on the evening or take home a membership form. Talks are followed by supper ($2 donation). Maximum of two visits as a non-member (paying only the $2 supper charge), to see if this group is for you. Annual membership is $40 for lots of great benefits.
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.
