Sydney Powerhouse has announced the launch of an exciting new monthly program presented under the stars at Sydney Observatory. This free program will feature talks from leading astronomers, music and performance with drinks and food from leading NSW producers.
The first program on Saturday 8 October will feature the launch of the 2023 Australasian Sky Guide. Published annually, this popular guide by astronomer and author Dr Nick Lomb has guided stargazers for over 30 years. It contains the latest information about the southern night sky and clear explanations on the solar system updated with recent findings from space probes, historical features, details of the year’s celestial events, monthly sky maps, and viewing tips for stargazers. The new edition includes an article on Wiradjuri constellations by Wiradjuri woman and PhD candidate in astrophysics, Kirsten Banks.
On the night, Professor Fred Watson AM will be joined by astrophotographer Dr David Malin AM, there will be a talk from Kirsten Banks and Sydney Observatory artist in resident Kate Rees will deliver a poetry performance. Audiences will discover what celestial events to look out for in 2023 and, weather permitting, enjoy telescope views of Saturn, Jupiter and the Moon.
“Powerhouse is excited to be launching this new program at Sydney Observatory, which provides a unique opportunity for the community to engage with one of the most important sites in Australia’s scientific history,” Powerhouse Chief Executive Lisa Havilah said.
Built in 1858, Sydney Observatory is positioned on the highest point of Sydney Cove. The Observatory plays a central role in the history of timekeeping, meteorology and astronomy in Australia. In over 160 years it has kept time for New South Wales, established one of the longest continuous weather records in Australia and catalogued 430,000 stars in the southern sky.
Sydney Observatory dates:
• Saturday 8 October, 2023 Australasian Sky Guide launch
• Tuesday 8 November, Total Lunar Eclipse
• Sunday 22 January, Lunar New Year
• Wednesday 22 February, World Pride
• Saturday 25 March, Earth Hour
• Thursday 20 April, Partial Solar Eclipse (daytime event)
• Saturday 6 May, Full Moon
• Friday 22 June, Winter Solstice
Address: Sydney Observatory, 1003 Upper Fort St, Millers Point NSW 2000. Rugs and chairs: provided, attendees are also permitted to bring their own. Suitable for all ages. Register here.
