National Science Week always captivates our imaginations with the enchanting mysteries of space and our galaxy.
There is an array of events throughout the National Science 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.
Ryde to the Stars
Budding scientists of all ages have a treat in store for them during this year’s National Science Week with a series of illuminating and educational events taking place as part of Council’s thrilling Ryde to the Stars program.
Ryde to the Stars also includes an immersive planetarium, virtual reality sessions for youth and seniors simulating the Apollo 11 moon landing and international space station, and a series of drop-in activities to make rockets, planets, and add yourself into a growing community constellation.
For full details on all of the events being held in City of Ryde Libraries as part of Ryde to the Stars.
The amazing night sky and the impact of light pollution
For National Science Week 2024, the ABC is exploring the amazing night sky and light pollution’s impact on science, creatures and culture.
Humans have gazed at up the night sky for aeons. But many of us aren’t treated to the view our ancestors had, with the Milky Way no longer visible to an estimated third of people alive today.
Can you see the Milky Way at night?
Find out about light pollution and how it’s changing our view of the sky. Use an interactive to explore solutions to light pollution, and contribute to an Australian National Universitysurvey on the quality of the night sky where you live.
Join the Australasian Dark Sky Alliance during National Science Week for a citizen science project designed to protect and preserve our night skies! Take part in a short survey to help gather crucial data to combat light pollution.
First Nations Astronomy & Stargazing with Dr. Kirsten Banks
Join us with Astrophysicist Kirsten Banks on a journey through the cosmos honouring her rich First Nations heritage.
Kirsten Banks is a passionate astrophysicist and science communicator with a lifelong fascination for the cosmos. Her journey into the stars began when her science teachers sparked her curiosity with a documentary about the Hubble Space Telescope. Driven by this early inspiration, Kirsten pursued her love for space, earning a PhD in astrophysics, and delving into the depths of the Milky Way galaxy.
As a proud Wiradjuri woman, Kirsten not only explores the mysteries of the universe but also honours the rich knowledge of her ancestors. You’ll often find Kirsten sharing her love for astronomy and space with more than 500,000 followers across social platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.
Whether she’s delving into the secrets behind black holes, presenting breathtaking photos captured by space telescopes, or imparting intriguing knowledge about celestial phenomena, Kirsten’s contagious passion piques audiences’ interest and leaves them in awe. Discover the beauty of the universe with Kirsten as she takes you on an illuminating journey to appreciate the wild wonders of the cosmos.
6.30 – 7.30 pm on Tuesday, 13 August 2024 at Ryde Library
Kirsten’s event at the Albury LibraryMuseum will ignite your curiosity and leave you in awe of the universe. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a curious novice, this event is perfect for anyone with a passion for learning.
The event includes Kirsten’s talk at the Albury LibraryMuseum, followed by an opportunity to star-gaze in QEII Square with the Astronomical Society of Albury Wodonga.
Dress warm and bring a picnic rug for the stargazing session. BYO telescope to beat the queues!
5:30pm – 7:30pm on Friday 16 August 2024 at Albury LibraryMuseum
Join us at Sydney Observatory to celebrate First Nations sky and Country. Talk with Gail Mabo a proud Meriam woman of the Piadram clan in the Torres Strait Islands region. Watch the premiere of Celestial Emu is a short film project with Gamilaroi astrophysicist Karlie Noon and Bangarra Dance Theatre dancer Daniel Mateo, directed by Olivia Costa.
Go on a First Nations sky tours with telescope viewing (subject to cloud cover). Or, view the Exhibition I Put The Stars On The Ground that highlights First Nations custodianship to Sky Country and illustrates the site’s evolution into a public educational space and museum.
5.30pm & 7pm Tuesday 13 & Wednesday 14 August 2024 at Sydney Observatory
Join Michael Zenkov! a budding Aerospace Engineer this National Science Week. He will explain the basics of what exactly an Aerospace Engineer studies. Discover the fundamentals required to embark on this intrepid aeronautical path.
From building Robots as a teenager to designing real-life rockets, Michael will explain how his understanding of developing technologies has aided him in his path to studying space travel.
4:30pm – 5:30pm on Tuesday 13 August 2024 at Woollahra Library at Double Bay
Join acclaimed astrophysicist Tamara Davis’ on a journey through the cosmos that promises to captivate and inspire. With over two decades dedicated to unravelling cosmic mysteries, Tamara Davis has played a pivotal role in monumental astronomical surveys. She has uncovered over half a billion galaxies and illuminated the enigmatic nature of dark energy.
6:30pm – 7:30pm on Tuesday 13 August 2024 at the Roundhouse, UNSW Kensington
Dr Susmita Mohanty is a spaceship designer, serial entrepreneur and space diplomat. In a conversation with Professor Janna Levin, she will discuss her work co-founding India’s first space start-up, the challenges of building sustainable habitats beyond Earth, and the innovative technologies driving the next generation of space missions.
7:30pm – 8:30pm on Tuesday 13 August 2024 at the UTS Chau Chak Wing Auditorium
Space environmentalist A/Prof Moriba Jah and artist Trevor Paglen reveal the unseen, crowded sky, from space junk to ‘invisible’ surveillance satellites. In this conversation with Dagogo Altraide, they reflect and advocate for the possibility of a dark sky future.
This National Science Week event is part of the Sydney Science Festival, presented by Powerhouse.
6 – 7pm on Wednesday 14 August 2024 at Parramatta Town Hall
Bodies in Space – Katherine Bennell-Pegg and Xin Liu
Join Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg and engineer and artist Xin Liu in conversation with Professor Janna Levin as they reflect on their work informing how the human body adapts to space flight. From training and preparation to zero gravity performance.
6 – 7pm on Friday 16 August 2024 at the UTS Great Hall
Listen to the amazing Sydney Youth Orchestra’s Symphonic Wind Orchestra performing Gustav Holst’s The Planets and more starry music before you embark on a evening of star and planet gazing.
Dr Luke Barnes from Western Sydney University will provide you with an introduction in the stargazing and our First Nations educators will share their knowledge and stories of the night sky from the Dreaming to the present day.
The Sydney City Skywatchers will provide guidance with their amazing telescopes, all whilst our campfires keep you warm on a winter’s night.
3 – 8pm on Saturday 17 August 2024 at Centennial Parkland
Sydney Science Festival, presented by the Powerhouse
Castle Hill Science Day
Hands-on science fun for all ages at Powerhouse Castle Hill. Create messages to send to space or a Star map. Learn about the search for life on Mars with Australian Centre for Field Robotics. Join in Story time or a collection tour.
Sky Broadcasts
Star Emissions
Signs of Life
Sky Stories
10.30am – 3.30pm on Saturday 10 August 2024 at Powerhouse Castle Hill
National Science Week always captivates our imaginations with the enchanting mysteries of space and our galaxy.
There is an array of events throughout the National Science 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.
Ryde to the Stars
Budding scientists of all ages have a treat in store for them during this year’s National Science Week with a series of illuminating and educational events taking place as part of Council’s thrilling Ryde to the Stars program.
Ryde to the Stars also includes an immersive planetarium, virtual reality sessions for youth and seniors simulating the Apollo 11 moon landing and international space station, and a series of drop-in activities to make rockets, planets, and add yourself into a growing community constellation.
For full details on all of the events being held in City of Ryde Libraries as part of Ryde to the Stars.
The amazing night sky and the impact of light pollution
For National Science Week 2024, the ABC is exploring the amazing night sky and light pollution’s impact on science, creatures and culture.
Humans have gazed at up the night sky for aeons. But many of us aren’t treated to the view our ancestors had, with the Milky Way no longer visible to an estimated third of people alive today.
Can you see the Milky Way at night?
Find out about light pollution and how it’s changing our view of the sky. Use an interactive to explore solutions to light pollution, and contribute to an Australian National University survey on the quality of the night sky where you live.
Discover more ABC programs for National Science Week and beyond.
Help Preserve Our Night Skies
Join the Australasian Dark Sky Alliance during National Science Week for a citizen science project designed to protect and preserve our night skies! Take part in a short survey to help gather crucial data to combat light pollution.
First Nations Astronomy & Stargazing with Dr. Kirsten Banks
Join us with Astrophysicist Kirsten Banks on a journey through the cosmos honouring her rich First Nations heritage.
Kirsten Banks is a passionate astrophysicist and science communicator with a lifelong fascination for the cosmos. Her journey into the stars began when her science teachers sparked her curiosity with a documentary about the Hubble Space Telescope. Driven by this early inspiration, Kirsten pursued her love for space, earning a PhD in astrophysics, and delving into the depths of the Milky Way galaxy.
As a proud Wiradjuri woman, Kirsten not only explores the mysteries of the universe but also honours the rich knowledge of her ancestors. You’ll often find Kirsten sharing her love for astronomy and space with more than 500,000 followers across social platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.
Whether she’s delving into the secrets behind black holes, presenting breathtaking photos captured by space telescopes, or imparting intriguing knowledge about celestial phenomena, Kirsten’s contagious passion piques audiences’ interest and leaves them in awe. Discover the beauty of the universe with Kirsten as she takes you on an illuminating journey to appreciate the wild wonders of the cosmos.
6.30 – 7.30 pm on Tuesday, 13 August 2024 at Ryde Library
Kirsten’s event at the Albury LibraryMuseum will ignite your curiosity and leave you in awe of the universe. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a curious novice, this event is perfect for anyone with a passion for learning.
The event includes Kirsten’s talk at the Albury LibraryMuseum, followed by an opportunity to star-gaze in QEII Square with the Astronomical Society of Albury Wodonga.
Dress warm and bring a picnic rug for the stargazing session. BYO telescope to beat the queues!
5:30pm – 7:30pm on Friday 16 August 2024 at Albury LibraryMuseum
Celestial Emu
Join us at Sydney Observatory to celebrate First Nations sky and Country. Talk with Gail Mabo a proud Meriam woman of the Piadram clan in the Torres Strait Islands region. Watch the premiere of Celestial Emu is a short film project with Gamilaroi astrophysicist Karlie Noon and Bangarra Dance Theatre dancer Daniel Mateo, directed by Olivia Costa.
Go on a First Nations sky tours with telescope viewing (subject to cloud cover). Or, view the Exhibition I Put The Stars On The Ground that highlights First Nations custodianship to Sky Country and illustrates the site’s evolution into a public educational space and museum.
5.30pm & 7pm Tuesday 13 & Wednesday 14 August 2024 at Sydney Observatory
Advice from an Aerospace Engineer
Join Michael Zenkov! a budding Aerospace Engineer this National Science Week. He will explain the basics of what exactly an Aerospace Engineer studies. Discover the fundamentals required to embark on this intrepid aeronautical path.
From building Robots as a teenager to designing real-life rockets, Michael will explain how his understanding of developing technologies has aided him in his path to studying space travel.
4:30pm – 5:30pm on Tuesday 13 August 2024 at Woollahra Library at Double Bay
Tamara Davis: Dark Energy
Join acclaimed astrophysicist Tamara Davis’ on a journey through the cosmos that promises to captivate and inspire. With over two decades dedicated to unravelling cosmic mysteries, Tamara Davis has played a pivotal role in monumental astronomical surveys. She has uncovered over half a billion galaxies and illuminated the enigmatic nature of dark energy.
6:30pm – 7:30pm on Tuesday 13 August 2024 at the Roundhouse, UNSW Kensington
Space For Earth – Susmita Mohanty
Dr Susmita Mohanty is a spaceship designer, serial entrepreneur and space diplomat. In a conversation with Professor Janna Levin, she will discuss her work co-founding India’s first space start-up, the challenges of building sustainable habitats beyond Earth, and the innovative technologies driving the next generation of space missions.
7:30pm – 8:30pm on Tuesday 13 August 2024 at the UTS Chau Chak Wing Auditorium
Our Crowded Skies – Moriba Jah and Trevor Paglen
Space environmentalist A/Prof Moriba Jah and artist Trevor Paglen reveal the unseen, crowded sky, from space junk to ‘invisible’ surveillance satellites. In this conversation with Dagogo Altraide, they reflect and advocate for the possibility of a dark sky future.
This National Science Week event is part of the Sydney Science Festival, presented by Powerhouse.
6 – 7pm on Wednesday 14 August 2024 at Parramatta Town Hall
Bodies in Space – Katherine Bennell-Pegg and Xin Liu
Join Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg and engineer and artist Xin Liu in conversation with Professor Janna Levin as they reflect on their work informing how the human body adapts to space flight. From training and preparation to zero gravity performance.
6 – 7pm on Friday 16 August 2024 at the UTS Great Hall
The Planets Concert and Stargazing
Listen to the amazing Sydney Youth Orchestra’s Symphonic Wind Orchestra performing Gustav Holst’s The Planets and more starry music before you embark on a evening of star and planet gazing.
Dr Luke Barnes from Western Sydney University will provide you with an introduction in the stargazing and our First Nations educators will share their knowledge and stories of the night sky from the Dreaming to the present day.
The Sydney City Skywatchers will provide guidance with their amazing telescopes, all whilst our campfires keep you warm on a winter’s night.
3 – 8pm on Saturday 17 August 2024 at Centennial Parkland
Sydney Science Festival, presented by the Powerhouse
Castle Hill Science Day
Hands-on science fun for all ages at Powerhouse Castle Hill. Create messages to send to space or a Star map. Learn about the search for life on Mars with Australian Centre for Field Robotics. Join in Story time or a collection tour.
10.30am – 3.30pm on Saturday 10 August 2024 at Powerhouse Castle Hill
Sydney Science Festival Parramatta
A full day of free hands-on science fun for all ages including:
10am – 3 pm on Saturday 17 August 2024 at Parramatta Square
Browse the National Science Week website for space and astronomy events in your area and join in the space race!
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