UWS answers kid’s questions about the cosmos

Kids are naturally curious about the world around them, and this curiosity also extends to the night sky – the Moon, the stars and the galaxy beyond.

In the lead-up to Mother’s Day, the University of Western Sydney Observatory is hosting a ‘Mums and Kids Astronomy Night’ at 7pm on Saturday 5th May 2012.

Associate Professor Miroslav Filipovic, the Director of the UWS Observatory, says the special event is ideal for parents and inquisitive kids.

“Most children notice the Moon and the stars from quite a young age, and will ask questions about what they see,” says Associate Professor Filipovic.

“Parents are often asked questions like: ‘If it's NOT made of milk, why do they call it the Milky Way?’ ‘Is there a Man in the Moon?’ and ‘If we keep seeing shooting stars will all the stars be gone soon?’

“This special astronomy night will aim to answer these common questions and will show parents and children how to navigate through the night sky using a few simple landmarks.”

The Astronomy Night will feature a guest talk by Dr Maria Cunningham from the University of NSW. The evening will also include a 3D movie and stargazing through the University’s computerised telescopes.

WHAT: Mums and Kids Astronomy Night
WHEN 7-9pm, Saturday 5th May 2012
WHERE: UWS Penrith Observatory, Great Western Highway, Werrington North (Building AO)
COST: $15 adult, $10 child/concession or $40 family.

To book please contact the UWS Observatory on (02) 4736 0135 (Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays) or email r.mccourt@uws.edu.au

Bookings can also be made to witness one of the world’s rarest astronomical phenomena, the Transit of Venus, on June 6. The ‘Transit’ occurs when the planet Venus passes directly between Earth and the Sun. Using special equipment available at the UWS Observatory, guests will be able to see a small silhouette of the planet on the Sun’s surface.

Ends 

23 April 2012

Contact: Danielle Roddick, Senior Media Officer