An evening of hands-on activities supervised by the Society's experienced amateur astronomers.

Open from 6.30pm-10.30pm.

At 7.30pm. Brian Curd, the Observatory Director, will give a talk entitled "Where do we fit in?"

At 8.30pm there will be a talk from member Peter Burgess entitled "Astronomy - Where do I begin?"

Then, once it gets dark, there will be:

Tours of the dome,

Ten types of telescopes and various binoculars,

Celestron SkyScout (a star finder) and Giant binoculars.

A representative from Astronomy Centre 'Astronomia' (http://www.astronomia.co.uk/) with a display of equipment.

Hands on advice on Astro Imaging with Dr Jon Whitehurst.

The event is free, with a suggested Donation of £1. No booking is required unless you are bringing a group, in which case please call in advance.

Under 18s are very welcome, but note that guidelines require under 18s to be accompanied by a responsible adult. We will be supplying equipment.

There is parking for up to 30 cars. The overflow car park will be in Thompsons Garden Centre almost opposite.

Refreshments - tea, coffee and cold drinks will be available.

In terms of access the parking is on gravel; there is a concrete path to the Observatory and adjacent to the Pavilion with ramp-access to the Observatory.

Ground-level access to the Pavilion (for the Talks). Unfortunately there is no wheelchair access to the dome upstairs in the Observatory.

For directions when passing Amazon World on your left (PO36 OLX), turn right into floodlit parking area for playing field and Newchurch Observatory.

Contact: Elaine Spear 07970-965105 or [email protected]