Dreamtime to Dark Matter: Astronomy talk, walk and stargazing

[iceman (Mike)]

Courtesy Marnie Ogg
Outreach Manager
Prof Fred Watson

Enjoy an evening of celestial conversation and star-gazing in the Botanic Gardens with Aboriginal astronomy expert Ray Norris and well-known astronomer Prof. Fred Watson, as they explore the ancient secrets of Aboriginal astronomy and the revelations of modern space journeys.

The evening will begin with a tour by Clarence Slockee and other Aboriginal educators of the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney which was once an important ceremonial site. Dreamtime songs and stories connected traditional law to the cycles of land and sky, providing essential knowledge for food gathering, navigation and life.

Ray Norris will discuss the rapidly expanding research into Aboriginal Astronomy which saw the skies through different eyes. There are 'constellations' such as the Emu in the Sky formed from the dark places between the visible stars.

Using the latest images from Mars and Saturn, Fred Watson will share the extraordinary insights we have recently gained into the geological history of Mars, the bizarre moons of Saturn and what the current explorations to Mars, Venus, Mercury and Pluto may reveal about the nature of the solar system.

After a light supper, star-gazing through telescopes in the Gardens (weather permitting), will offer views of Saturn in the East and the red planet Mars overhead. The constellation Orion will also be 'starring' on the night.

When: Friday 5 March, 6.30pm to 10 pm
Where: Maiden Theatre, Royal Botanic Gardens.
Cost: $33 adults, $16.50 children (includes refreshments)
Bookings: 02 9231 8134