Mount Stromlo Observatory in conjunction with the Canberra Astronomical Society invite the Canberra community to attend our public observing nights of 2017. Come and see the rings of Saturn, the craters of the moon as well as beautiful star clusters and nebulae. On the night attendees will be taken on a ‘tour of the universe’ with talks by astronomers from Mt. Stromlo Observatory and observations on several telescopes.

Prof. Matthew Colless has been the director of the Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics since 2013.  He currently serves on the board of directors for the Giant Magellan Telescope, a 25-meter telescope being built in Chile.  In 2001, he was listed as one of the most-cited scientists in Australia.  He has an interest in how galaxies form, and cosmology, including measuring sound ripples from the Big Bang called Baryonic Acoustic Oscillations.

Liz Lea and Co will also present a series of performances inspired by the Galaxies - dance and light combined with performers of all ages.  This will take place in the Yale-Columbia dome.

Bookings essential. Entry by gold coin donation. Warm clothing is recommended. Southern Cross Stromlo will also be open to serve cold and warm drinks, snacks, and hot soup and roll.

In the event of cloudy/bad weather, star gazing will be cancelled and the cafe may be closed (the talks will occur regardless of the weather). You can check out the weather at Mt Stromlo using our all sky camera.

2017 Dates: 21 April, 5 May, 2 June, 30 June, 28 July, 18 August, 15 September.