Parkes open days

Free event.

It’s been 50 years since Australia helped send images of humankind’s first steps on the Moon around the world. To celebrate we’re holding FREE open days at our Parkes Observatory.

More information here.

Activities

Saturday 20 July and Sunday 21 July (9am – 5pm):

 

• Take the rare opportunity to tour ‘The Dish’
• Discover the latest in Australian astronomy and space science with talks, presentations and displays – hear from Adelaide-born NASA astronaut Dr. Andrew Thomas and Mr Anthony Murfett of the Australian Space Agency on Sunday 21 July
• Drive the telescope to observe pulsars in real-time
• Explore the brightest stars, planets and the Sun with the Central West Astronomical Society
• Check out the Parkes Observatory Visitors Centre
• Have fun with science activities for kids
• Get into theme with space face painting
• Be entertained by roving performers
• Step back in time with vintage car displays
• Listen to live music
• Enjoy the range of delicious food available

Saturday evening

Make sure you arrive early to grab a prime spot and enjoy our pre-movie entertainment from 5pm, including:

• Optical astronomy viewing
• Space trivia
• Apollo 11 – themed short films and artworks
• Grab some gourmet dinner under the Dish
• Actor Roy Billing, who played the Mayor of Parkes in ‘The Dish’ will introduce the film
• ‘The Dish’ will then screen at 7pm.

To make sure you’re comfy and warm during the evening please BYO chairs, blankets and beanies.

Sunday afternoon

Watch the broadcast of the Moon landing as it happened on Monday, 21 July 1969. When, at 12.56pm (AEST), 600 million people around the world watched as humanity took its first steps on the Moon.