INTRODUCTION TO ASTRONOMY COURSE

Saturday 3rd April 2027, 10am to 5:30pm (Doors open at 09:15 am)
Saturday 4th September 2026, 10am to 5:30pm (Doors open at 9:15 am)

Course prices are £50 per person (£40 for members – members must use the discount code upon booking and will be required to show a valid membership card upon arrival). If you have any enquiries regarding the course (or if you are a member and require the discount code) please email courses@normanlockyer.com

Please access this link to book the Saturday 3rd April 2027 course https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2003525147650?aff=oddtdtcreator

Please access this link to book the Saturday 4th September 2027 course https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2003876880693?aff=oddtdtcreator

This popular course introduces the major topics in astronomy. No prior knowledge or mathematics are required for the course.

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.

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 under 18 may only come on a course with a paying 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.

Please also bring warm clothing for the tours of the historical domes as these are not heated and can get a little chilly. Free parking is available on site.

Directions to the Norman Lockyer Observatory are available from the link below: https://normanlockyer.com/visitor-information/finding-us/

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

Course itinerary below:

TIME	TOPIC	SUMMARY
Doors open 09:15	Tea/Coffee served	(Optional) arrive a little earlier and get to know other course attendees and the volunteers running the course
10::00	Welcome	Welcome to the course from the Chairman of the NLO
10:15	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.
11:00	Looking at the Night Sky	The planetarium will be used to demonstrate the interesting objects which can be seen in the night sky.
11:45	Tea/Coffee Break	Refreshments will be served in the foyer
12:00	The Planets	A description of the planets and a glimpse into our current understanding of planetary science.
12:45	Lunch Break	You will need to bring a packed lunch. There is a fridge and microwave available onsite to store and heat food if you wish. Solar telescopes will be available outside to view the sun (weather permitting)
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	Refreshments will be served in the foyer
15:30	Telescopes	A discussion and Q&A session of the types of telescopes and binoculars used by professionals and amateurs, including basic astrophotography.
16:30	Tours of the Observatory	See the historic and modern telescopes and displays housed at the Observatory and the Lockyer Technology Centre