INTRODUCTION TO ASTRONOMY COURSE

Saturday 11th April 2026, 10am to 5pm.
Saturday 5th September 2026, 10am to 5pm.

Course prices for 11th April 2026, £35 per person (£25 for members). Courses prices for 5th September 2026 are currently under review and will be updated in due course.

To book please email courses@normanlockyer.com and include details of the name(s) of those who would like to attend the course and whether they are members together with their email addresses and contact phone numbers. Also please clearly state which date you wish to attend. Further booking information and details of how to pay will be sent to you via email.

The aim of this course is to introduce major topics in astronomy. The journey begins with a description of our planet, the Earth, and its place in the Solar System. Further out, star clusters, nebulae, the Milky Way and other galaxies are explored. No prior knowledge or mathematics are required and the course aims to increase one’s appreciation and enjoyment of the night sky. A summary of the topics covered can be seen below.

Time	Topic	Summary
10:15	Looking at the Night Sky	The planetarium will be used to demonstrate the interesting objects which can be seen in the night sky.
11:00	Using Star Maps	A talk on how to use the star maps which can be found on software, the internet and in newspapers, and the use of a planisphere.
11:45	Tea/Coffee break
12:00	The Planets	A description of the planets and a glimpse into our current understanding of planetary science.
12:45	Lunch Break
13:45	The Sun and the Moon	A description of the Sun and Moon, and how to observe them safely
14:30	Stars, Nebulae and Galaxies	A brief description of stars and “fuzzy” objects as seen by eye and by amateur and professional equipment.
15:15	Tea/Coffee Break
15:30	Telescopes	A discussion of the types of telescopes and binoculars used by professionals and amateurs, including basis astrophotography.
16:15	Tours of the Observatory	See the historic and modern telescopes and displays housed at the Observatory.

Course tutors are drawn from members of the NLO Society who are experienced amateur astronomers, and unpaid volunteers. Course fees are used to maintain and expand the Observatory buildings and facilities.

Please be aware that those students who are 16 or under may only come on a course with an adult in attendance.

Tea and coffee will be provided but you will need to bring a packed lunch. There is a fridge and microwave available onsite to store and heat food if you wish.

Free parking is available on-site. The majority of the site is wheelchair accessible, and there is an accessible toilet, however please note that there is rough ground outside and as a result there may be some limitations on viewing through the dome telescopes for those with mobility issues – please contact us if you would like to discuss in more detail.

Data Protection: The information you give will be held securely and only used for preparation of your course. It will not be used for marketing or shared with, or sold to any other organisation.