People in the north-east are to be given the exciting opportunity to sky the skies above in an evening of astronomy themed activities at Aberdeen Science Centre later this month.
Teaming up with the Aberdeen Astronomical Society, the sky at night event will offer visitors the chance to experience Aberdeen Science Centre after dark while learning from Aberdeen’s very own astronomic experts.
Astronomers from the society will walk participants through how they became involved in the study of space, and they will demonstrate what it takes to become a true stargazer.
During the session, an interactive show will be presented to guests to educate them on the most powerful telescopes used to observe the stars and planets beyond our own solar system. The astronomers will also explore the night sky using data captured from the largest image of the universe currently available.
Visitors are also encouraged to bring along any telescopes or binoculars they own to join in a spot of stargazing in the garden area of the centre subject to weather conditions and clear skies on the night.
Elaine Holland, head of operations at Aberdeen Science Centre, said: “We are over the moon to be hosting the Aberdeen Astronomical Society for what is set to be a great night of stargazing and astronomic activities for our visitors. With no pre-booking required for this event, we cannot wait to welcome the budding astronomers that turn up to our doors.
“With our busy everyday lives, we sometimes forget to appreciate the world around us, and what’s more beautiful than a starry night sky? If you are interested in exploring the universe that surrounds us and reaching for the stars, our evening session will be the perfect place to get started. We know our sky at night event will be out of this world!”
Recently awarded 5-star status by VisitScotland, Aberdeen Science Centre reopened to the public in November 2020 after a major project to create an aspirational science centre which reflects the STEM priorities for both industry and education.
The centre’s exhibits are aimed at all ages and are themed into six zones: Energy; Space; Life Sciences; Make It, Test It; and the dedicated area for the under-6s, as well as the Shell Learning Zone, where science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are brought to life.
Aberdeen Science Centre’s £4.7million redevelopment was made possible by generous support and funding from the Inspiring Science Fund – a partnership between the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and Wellcome – with additional funding provided by Opportunity North East (ONE) and Aberdeen City Council.
The project secured a further £1.5million from funders and sponsors including OPITO, Shell, Equinor, bp, The Robertson Trust, TAQA and CNOOC International to deliver quality exhibits and programmes to enhance the overall visitor experience at the venue, as well through outreach work.
Aberdeen Science Centre’s sky at night event will be held on Friday, January 27 from 6-9pm. This event is only available to adults over the age of 18 at a cost of £10 per person. Advance booking is not required.
Advance booking is recommended. To find out more please visit
Source : Aberdeen Live
