100 HOURS OF ASTRONOMY IN KINGS PARK

IYA2009 - 100 Hours of Astronomy in Kings Park

Perth Observatory and Kings Park have teamed up to provide members of the public the opportunity to participate in the 100 Hours of Astronomy.

Activities include:
• A safe view of the Sun from noon to around 6pm,
• A view of the Moon, Saturn and other celestial objects from around 6 to 10pm, and
• Perth Observatory astronomers will be available to share their knowledge of astronomy.

During inclement weather the event will proceed inside the Kings Park Education Centre with internet and/or DVD presentations concerning astronomy.

People who have never viewed celestial objects through a telescope are particularly welcome to participate.

Background:

The 100 Hours of Astronomy is an IYA2009 Cornerstone Project. It is a worldwide event consisting of a wide range of public outreach activities, live science center, research observatory webcasts and sidewalk astronomy events. One of the key goals of 100 Hours of Astronomy is to have as many people as possible look through a telescope as Galileo did for the first time 400 years ago. 100 Hours of Astronomy will take place from 2-5 April when the Moon goes from first quarter to gibbous, good phases for early evening observing. Saturn will be the other highlight of early evening observing events.

Yes, we know we are only conducting 40 hours of activity. 100 Hours of Astronomy does not require a given astronomer or institution to operate continuously for 100 hours. It is just a time frame in which to conduct astronomy activities for the public.