Global science on your doorstep: visit the Royal Observatory, Edinburgh this weekend!

20 Sep 2016 04:33 PM

The Royal Observatory Edinburgh is flinging its doors wide open this weekend (24-25 September 2016) giving the public the chance to discover first-hand the global astronomy taking place on their doorstep.

The UK Astronomy Technology Centre and the University of Edinburgh are co-located at the Royal Observatory, Edinburgh and their work sees them partner with global organisations such as NASA, the European Space Agency and the European Southern Observatory.

Engineers and technologists build cutting edge instruments for both ground and space-based telescopes, while scientists are looking at among other things, planet and galaxy formation.

Whether you’re a budding engineer or astronomer looking at future career options, or are just interested to know ‘what happens at the top of Blackford Hill’ there’ll be something for you.

There will be the chance to touch a meteorite, speak to an astronomer, find out about the different jobs people do on the site and even watch a comet form before your eyes!

Plus, did you know that some space technology is even being used to develop a test to help diagnose the World’s most common form of sight loss in adults? There is definitely more than meets the eye going on at the top of Blackford Hill!


UK Astronomy Technology Centre (UKATC), Royal Observatory Edinburgh aerial view (Credit: STFC)

Visitors will also be able to visit the telescope dome that has been sitting at the top of the hill for over a hundred years, take part in solar observing (safely of course) if it’s sunny, and whatever the weather, you may get to see the stars - inside our inflatable planetarium!

There will also be the opportunity to speak to members of amateur astronomy societies to find out how you can take the hobby home.

The site will open 10am – 5pm on both Saturday and Sunday, no booking is needed and the best bit? It’s completely free!

Check out our leaflet.