‘Stargazing for Pleasure’

Bangor, Hamilton House

Tuesday evenings 7pm to 9pm

November to December 2009

A series of eight illustrated evening lectures and practical demonstrations all aimed at beginners or those with a background interest. The lectures will cover;

1. The Night Sky Constellations – an introduction to the night sky and the basic principles – how to find your way around the night sky!
2. The History of Astronomy – how did our understanding of the universe and our place in it develop from Plato to Copernicus.
3. Our Nearest Star, the Sun – all our light and heat comes from our star, the Sun!
4. Planets of our Solar System – a romp through the planets, moons and dwarf planets of our Sun’s family
5. Meteors, Comets and Asteroids – a look at the ‘left overs’ from the solar system’s creation
6. The Milky Way and other Galaxies – our star city and its relationship to the others
7. Cosmology and the Universe – latest thinking on our place in the universe
8. Telescopes and Binoculars – will cover the purchase and setting up of astronomical equipment.

The series will be conducted by well known local amateur astronomer and monthly ‘Heavens Above’ columnist with the Bangor Spectator, Dr Andy McCrea, past President of the  Irish Astronomical Association.  Each evening session will be in two halves with a short break at 7.45. There will be an introduction with a description of what is visible in the night sky and there will be observing through telescopes and binoculars if weather conditions permit.

Special introductory cost for the complete series will be £90 per person.

If you would be interested in attending this lecture series, please contact 91 273584 after 6 pm as soon as possible. Once numbers have been established, bookings and  commencement dates will be confirmed.