Astronomy is a subject that has long captured humankind's imagination.
The public's fascination with the subject is clearly apparent
in the constant stream of astronomical features and articles in
all forms of mass media. Local interest in astronomy also manifests
itself in an ongoing and increasing demand for astronomical educational
information from Perth Observatory.
Because of its mass appeal, astronomy is being used in educational initiatives to
highlight physical science in an effort to foster a greater appreciation of science,
engineering and technology - the cornerstone of our modern society.
Objectives
In order to achieve its Mission, Perth Observatory has the following educational
objectives:
- Provision of relevant and timely outreach and education services, such as star viewing
nights, lectures etc,
- Demonstration of science in action, and the role of astronomy in everyday life, and
- Facilitation of the development of the tourism potential of astronomy.
Significance and Benefits
There is a significant demand for astronomy education services from many
different groups and individuals within the community. Conduct
of this activity serves to satisfy this demand and is also in directly
addresses the objectives of State Government's Innovate WA Policy.
Outcomes
The desired outcome is the provision of valued astronomical education
services to the people of Western Australia underpinned
by a reputation for excellence in astronomy education.
Quality
Perth Observatory astronomers are WA's professional astronomers
- all have an enduring commitment to their field and at least
10 years experience in astronomy education and public outreach,
and most have extensive research experience and appropriate university
qualifications. Furthermore, not only do they actively keep their
knowledge current but they also have the ability to present this
constantly revised knowledge, in the appropriate scientific and
educational context, to a wide variety of audiences.
Activities
View our September 2008 - August 2009 activities calendar (pdf 152kB).
View the full September 2008 - August 2009 activities brochure (pdf 321kB).
Start times
In general, the start times are quoted in WAST - Western Australian Standard Time. However, beginning with the September 2007 - August
2008 brochure daylight saving times are quoted, as appropriate. This is a result of the imposition of
a daylight saving trial by the State Government.
Here is a link to the Bill detailing this trial (pdf 31KB).
DAYLIGHT SAVING effectively occurs from:
2006 December 3 - 2007 March 24, inclusive
2007 October 28 - 2008 March 29, inclusive, and
2008 October 26 - 2009 March 28 inclusive.
Also, many of our INFORMATION services are
directly relevant to astronomy education.
Our services are very popular so book early in order to avoid disappointment.
