National Science Week always captivates our imaginations with the enchanting mysteries of space and our galaxy.
Although we don’t have any fresh updates on the contributions made by Australian science to the recently observed time dilation in the early universe or pulsar timing and evidence for ultra-low-frequency gravitational waves, there’s still an array of events throughout the week that celebrate and delve into the realm of space exploration, the future of the space industry, Indigenous astronomy, and even offer opportunities to observe the mesmerizing night sky.
Materials scientist Meganne Christian studied at UNSW Sydney and has recently been selected as a reservist astronaut by the European Space Agency. She could end up on a mission to the moon! She is speaking at two events in Sydney as well as one in Canberra this year.
Friday 11 August From Antarctica to Space via Bologna, Italy Location: Australian Academy of Science, Canberra Bookings
Tuesday 15 August Meganne Christian: An Evening with a Future Astronaut In conversation with Aude Vignelles, the Chief Technology Officer of the Australian Space Agency Location: Roundhouse, UNSW Sydney Bookings
Saturday 19 August Sydney Science Festival Keynote: Dr Meganne Christian – Australian Astronaut In conversation with science journalist Rae Johnston. Location: PHIVE, Parramatta Square Bookings
Tuesday 15 August Earth Conservation x Space Exploration Following Meganne’s visit to the campus of UNSW Sydney, UNSW’s School of Physics will host an interactive event to discuss the question “What’s more important: Earth’s conservation or space exploration? Location: UNSW Sydney Bookings
Saturday 12 August Museum Tour: Out of This World – Australia in the Space Age From the 1950s through to the 1970s, Australia was gripped with excitement as humanity made its first forays beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. A national touring exhibition developed and presented by the National Archives of Australia Out of This World explores Australia’s role in the space race through photographs, documents and videos. Join a special tour for National Science Week. Location: Albury LibraryMuseum, 540 Kiewa Street, Albury More information and bookings
Wednesday, 16 August Next-Generation Telescopes in the Age of Data-Intensive Astronomy Macquarie University Professor Richard McDermid’s research uses distant galaxies to explore this cosmic evolution. He is developing new technology to observe the Universe in unprecedented detail and new ways to confront theory with observations. Location: NSW Parliament House More information and bookings
ALDRIN MOON TO MARS EXPERIENCE AND INTERGALACTIC BREWS
The Hunter Science Festival is one the largest regional events for National Science Week. Each year it fills the Newcastle Museum for a day of new and exciting science-based activities for families as well as adults, all free and open to all.
This year they have been fortunate to also secure the Aldrin Moon to Mars Experience from the US, an interactive experience for all ages. Dr Scott Sleap, an educator involved in STEM education as well as the space industry is the organiser of the experience.
“It is truly a unique opportunity to host the Aldrin Moon to Mars Experience at the Hunter Science Festival. Thanks to the generosity of the Aldrin Family Foundation, we have been provided with limited-edition maps that bring a tangible aspect of Mars right into our hands. This event promises to immerse young minds in the thrill of space exploration through interactive activities and an exciting science show.
Instilling this knowledge and fascination in our youth is vital, as they will be the ones shaping the future of space exploration. It’s not just about learning—it’s about experiencing, understanding, and being part of the great cosmic journey” says Scott.
Scott will also close the Hunter Science Festival day at the Newcastle Museum with a fun and interactive panel on the possibilities and future for the space industry in Australia, Intergalactic Brews & Cosmic Views. The discussion includes a streamed visit by a special guest from the United States, leading technologist Ted Tagami, on his experiences with the International Space Station National Laboratory.
“I am thrilled to host Intergalactic Brews & Cosmic Views as part of National Science Week, supported by Inspiring Australia. Our goal is to inspire and inform, delving into topics that shape our understanding of space. As we move into the future, space exploration will be pivotal for Australia’s growth, sparking innovation and technological advancement. Through my work in STEM education, I strive to ignite this passion in the next generation. Join us to celebrate the wonders of space and the potential it holds for our nation.”
Sunday 20 August Hunter Science Festival More information Aldrin Moon to Mars Experience Free but bookings essential Intergalactic Brews & Cosmic Views – Space Q and A Panel Free but bookings essential
RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
Monday 14 August Earthy and non-earthly atmospheres The Powerhouse hosts a one day inter-disciplinary symposium with many space and astronomy topics including a conversation on ‘Space Ethics and Life in outer Space’ and an interesting discussion on the intersection of the histories of Sydney Observatory and First Nations astronomical practices. Location: Powerhouse Museum, Ultimo More information
ASTRONOMY
Saturday 12 August Wyangala A day long program, presented by Wiradjuri cultural holders, raises awareness about the environmental impact of recent floods in the Central West, and includes Indigenous sky stories with local ‘Dougie’ Ian Sutherland in the evening. Location: The Corridor Project, Wyangala, Central West More information
Saturday 12 August John Tebbutt’s Telescope: It’s remarkable heritage and legacy Fred Watson, Australia’s Astronomer-at-Large, will present a fascinating talk on John Tebbutt’s historic telescope, the company that made it, and his connection with both. Location: Hawkesbury Regional Museum, Windsor More information
Monday 14 August Country and Sky Australian space archaeologist Dr Alice Gorman and Gamilaraay astrophysicist Karlie Noon discuss new frontiers of science. Location: Powerhouse Museum, Ultimo More information and bookings
Tuesday 15 August Indigenous Science, Song-lines and Stars –An evening in the Science Space, Innovation Campus An special evening at the University of Wollongong Science Space includes a section of The Earth Above planetarium show video developed by the ARC Centre of Excellence of Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH) that combines Indigenous knowledges and sciences to help future-proof Australia’s biodiversity and ancient heritage; a night sky planetarium show with Indigenous astronomy presentation; and a presentation by Dr Robert Fuller from the Australian Indigenous Astronomy group on Aboriginal astronomy and song-line connections. More information and bookings
Wednesday 16 August Sydney Observatory Late: Sky Connections Sydney Observatory opens its doors for one of their regular programs of stargazing, music and talk. This year, Gamilaraay astrophysicist Karlie Noon and Powerhouse curator Sarah Reeves join ABC meteorologist Nate Byrne for a conversation on climate change and how it continues to affect the weather we experience. Location: Sydney Observatory, Millers Point More information
Wednesday 16 August An Introduction to Observing the Night Sky Astrophysicist, Dr Angel R. Lopez-Sanchez from Macquarie University, presents an illustrated talk on observing the night sky. Location: Mosman Library More information
Thursday 17 August Dark Science: New Moon The Lismore Quad hosts a full day exploration of local science practices through workshops, performance, art, and activities, including community stargazing during the new moon cycle in the evening. Location: Lismore Quad, Lismore More information
Friday 18 August Library After Dusk: Skyworks Planetarium Imagine bringing the wonders of the night sky directly into the library. As the lights dim, you are surrounded by a multitude of planets, stars and constellations. A mobile planetarium comes to Ryde Library for National Science Week with two free sessions for children. More information and bookings
Saturday 19 August The Planets – Concert and Stargazing A beautiful night of music, science and incredible nature with Sydney Youth Orchestra performing Gustav Holst’s The Planets, an introduction to stargazing, Aboriginal educators sharing their knowledge and stories of the night sky from a First Nation’s perspective, and The Sydney City Skywatchers will providing guidance with their amazing telescopes Location: Centennial Park More information
ONLINE
Monday 14 August Understanding the Importance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Dreaming Narratives and Links to Astronomy A webinar with Duane Hamacher FRAS, Associate Professor of Cultural Astronomy in the ARC Centre of Excellence in All-Sky Astrophysics in 3-Dimensions (ASTRO 3D) and the School of Physics at the University of Melbourne, and author of The First Astronomers: how Indigenous Elders read the stars. More information
Tuesday 15 August Australia’s Astronaut in training: In conversation with Katherine Bennell-Pegg The Australian Space Agency’s Katherine Bennell-Pegg is the first person to be trained as an astronaut under the Australian flag. Join her online as she beams in from Germany where she is currently training with the European Space Agency. More information
COMMUNITY EVENTS AND OPEN DAYS
Many of the National Science Week community events include discussions on astronomy within their wider program.
Saturday 12 August Science of Nature, Community Open Day at Sydney City Farm More information
Sunday 13 August Science in the Scrub at Western Sydney Parklands More information
Saturday 19 August Sydney Science Festival Family Science Day, Parramatta More information
Saturday 19 August Sydney Science Trail Community Day at the Australian Museum More information
Sunday 20 August Sydney Science Trail at Australian Botanic Garden, Mt Annan More information
Sunday 20 August Science in the Swamp, Centennial Park More information
National Science Week always captivates our imaginations with the enchanting mysteries of space and our galaxy.
Although we don’t have any fresh updates on the contributions made by Australian science to the recently observed time dilation in the early universe or pulsar timing and evidence for ultra-low-frequency gravitational waves, there’s still an array of events throughout the week that celebrate and delve into the realm of space exploration, the future of the space industry, Indigenous astronomy, and even offer opportunities to observe the mesmerizing night sky.
Browse the National Science Week website for space and astronomy events in your area and here are some highlights.
SPACE
Reservist astronaut Meganne Christian
Materials scientist Meganne Christian studied at UNSW Sydney and has recently been selected as a reservist astronaut by the European Space Agency. She could end up on a mission to the moon! She is speaking at two events in Sydney as well as one in Canberra this year.
Friday 11 August
From Antarctica to Space via Bologna, Italy
Location: Australian Academy of Science, Canberra
Bookings
Tuesday 15 August
Meganne Christian: An Evening with a Future Astronaut
In conversation with Aude Vignelles, the Chief Technology Officer of the Australian Space Agency
Location: Roundhouse, UNSW Sydney
Bookings
Saturday 19 August
Sydney Science Festival Keynote: Dr Meganne Christian – Australian Astronaut
In conversation with science journalist Rae Johnston.
Location: PHIVE, Parramatta Square
Bookings
Tuesday 15 August
Earth Conservation x Space Exploration
Following Meganne’s visit to the campus of UNSW Sydney, UNSW’s School of Physics will host an interactive event to discuss the question “What’s more important: Earth’s conservation or space exploration?
Location: UNSW Sydney
Bookings
Saturday 12 August
Museum Tour: Out of This World – Australia in the Space Age
From the 1950s through to the 1970s, Australia was gripped with excitement as humanity made its first forays beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. A national touring exhibition developed and presented by the National Archives of Australia Out of This World explores Australia’s role in the space race through photographs, documents and videos. Join a special tour for National Science Week.
Location: Albury LibraryMuseum, 540 Kiewa Street, Albury
More information and bookings
Wednesday, 16 August
Next-Generation Telescopes in the Age of Data-Intensive Astronomy
Macquarie University Professor Richard McDermid’s research uses distant galaxies to explore this cosmic evolution. He is developing new technology to observe the Universe in unprecedented detail and new ways to confront theory with observations.
Location: NSW Parliament House
More information and bookings
ALDRIN MOON TO MARS EXPERIENCE AND INTERGALACTIC BREWS
The Hunter Science Festival is one the largest regional events for National Science Week. Each year it fills the Newcastle Museum for a day of new and exciting science-based activities for families as well as adults, all free and open to all.
This year they have been fortunate to also secure the Aldrin Moon to Mars Experience from the US, an interactive experience for all ages. Dr Scott Sleap, an educator involved in STEM education as well as the space industry is the organiser of the experience.
“It is truly a unique opportunity to host the Aldrin Moon to Mars Experience at the Hunter Science Festival. Thanks to the generosity of the Aldrin Family Foundation, we have been provided with limited-edition maps that bring a tangible aspect of Mars right into our hands. This event promises to immerse young minds in the thrill of space exploration through interactive activities and an exciting science show.
Instilling this knowledge and fascination in our youth is vital, as they will be the ones shaping the future of space exploration. It’s not just about learning—it’s about experiencing, understanding, and being part of the great cosmic journey” says Scott.
Scott will also close the Hunter Science Festival day at the Newcastle Museum with a fun and interactive panel on the possibilities and future for the space industry in Australia, Intergalactic Brews & Cosmic Views. The discussion includes a streamed visit by a special guest from the United States, leading technologist Ted Tagami, on his experiences with the International Space Station National Laboratory.
“I am thrilled to host Intergalactic Brews & Cosmic Views as part of National Science Week, supported by Inspiring Australia. Our goal is to inspire and inform, delving into topics that shape our understanding of space. As we move into the future, space exploration will be pivotal for Australia’s growth, sparking innovation and technological advancement. Through my work in STEM education, I strive to ignite this passion in the next generation. Join us to celebrate the wonders of space and the potential it holds for our nation.”
Sunday 20 August
Hunter Science Festival
More information
Aldrin Moon to Mars Experience
Free but bookings essential
Intergalactic Brews & Cosmic Views – Space Q and A Panel
Free but bookings essential
RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
Monday 14 August
Earthy and non-earthly atmospheres
The Powerhouse hosts a one day inter-disciplinary symposium with many space and astronomy topics including a conversation on ‘Space Ethics and Life in outer Space’ and an interesting discussion on the intersection of the histories of Sydney Observatory and First Nations astronomical practices.
Location: Powerhouse Museum, Ultimo
More information
ASTRONOMY
Saturday 12 August
Wyangala
A day long program, presented by Wiradjuri cultural holders, raises awareness about the environmental impact of recent floods in the Central West, and includes Indigenous sky stories with local ‘Dougie’ Ian Sutherland in the evening.
Location: The Corridor Project, Wyangala, Central West
More information
Saturday 12 August
John Tebbutt’s Telescope: It’s remarkable heritage and legacy
Fred Watson, Australia’s Astronomer-at-Large, will present a fascinating talk on John Tebbutt’s historic telescope, the company that made it, and his connection with both.
Location: Hawkesbury Regional Museum, Windsor
More information
Monday 14 August
Country and Sky
Australian space archaeologist Dr Alice Gorman and Gamilaraay astrophysicist Karlie Noon discuss new frontiers of science.
Location: Powerhouse Museum, Ultimo
More information and bookings
Tuesday 15 August
Indigenous Science, Song-lines and Stars –An evening in the Science Space, Innovation Campus
An special evening at the University of Wollongong Science Space includes a section of The Earth Above planetarium show video developed by the ARC Centre of Excellence of Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH) that combines Indigenous knowledges and sciences to help future-proof Australia’s biodiversity and ancient heritage; a night sky planetarium show with Indigenous astronomy presentation; and a presentation by Dr Robert Fuller from the Australian Indigenous Astronomy group on Aboriginal astronomy and song-line connections.
More information and bookings
Wednesday 16 August
Sydney Observatory Late: Sky Connections
Sydney Observatory opens its doors for one of their regular programs of stargazing, music and talk. This year, Gamilaraay astrophysicist Karlie Noon and Powerhouse curator Sarah Reeves join ABC meteorologist Nate Byrne for a conversation on climate change and how it continues to affect the weather we experience.
Location: Sydney Observatory, Millers Point
More information
Wednesday 16 August
An Introduction to Observing the Night Sky
Astrophysicist, Dr Angel R. Lopez-Sanchez from Macquarie University, presents an illustrated talk on observing the night sky.
Location: Mosman Library
More information
Thursday 17 August
Dark Science: New Moon
The Lismore Quad hosts a full day exploration of local science practices through workshops, performance, art, and activities, including community stargazing during the new moon cycle in the evening.
Location: Lismore Quad, Lismore
More information
Friday 18 August
Library After Dusk: Skyworks Planetarium
Imagine bringing the wonders of the night sky directly into the library. As the lights dim, you are surrounded by a multitude of planets, stars and constellations. A mobile planetarium comes to Ryde Library for National Science Week with two free sessions for children.
More information and bookings
Saturday 19 August
The Planets – Concert and Stargazing
A beautiful night of music, science and incredible nature with Sydney Youth Orchestra performing Gustav Holst’s The Planets, an introduction to stargazing, Aboriginal educators sharing their knowledge and stories of the night sky from a First Nation’s perspective, and The Sydney City Skywatchers will providing guidance with their amazing telescopes
Location: Centennial Park
More information
ONLINE
Monday 14 August
Understanding the Importance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Dreaming Narratives and Links to Astronomy
A webinar with Duane Hamacher FRAS, Associate Professor of Cultural Astronomy in the ARC Centre of Excellence in All-Sky Astrophysics in 3-Dimensions (ASTRO 3D) and the School of Physics at the University of Melbourne, and author of The First Astronomers: how Indigenous Elders read the stars.
More information
Tuesday 15 August
Australia’s Astronaut in training: In conversation with Katherine Bennell-Pegg
The Australian Space Agency’s Katherine Bennell-Pegg is the first person to be trained as an astronaut under the Australian flag. Join her online as she beams in from Germany where she is currently training with the European Space Agency.
More information
COMMUNITY EVENTS AND OPEN DAYS
Many of the National Science Week community events include discussions on astronomy within their wider program.
Saturday 12 August
Science of Nature, Community Open Day at Sydney City Farm
More information
Sunday 13 August
Science in the Scrub at Western Sydney Parklands
More information
Saturday 19 August
Sydney Science Festival Family Science Day, Parramatta
More information
Saturday 19 August
Sydney Science Trail Community Day at the Australian Museum
More information
Sunday 20 August
Sydney Science Trail at Australian Botanic Garden, Mt Annan
More information
Sunday 20 August
Science in the Swamp, Centennial Park
More information
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