UNSW Physics Outreach team presented once again at Trinity Grammar School for the 5^th annual astronomy night on Wednesday, 11 May 2016.  Guest speaker was PhD candidate Matthew Freeman from the Antarctic Astronomy Group.  His presentation was entitled ‘Astronomical Adventures in Antarctica’ and he gave a personal account of his journey to one of the most remote places on the surface of the Earth!  The talk was well received and generated a lot of excitement and questions.

Matthew’s talk was followed by a telescope presentation led by Shaila Akhter.  She explained the effects of light through the use of mirrors and lenses with hands-on optics to observe first hand. She discussed the development of the telescope and its impact on the understanding of the universe.

The night finished off with a telescope viewing of the night sky with the assistance of Domenico Romano, Elida Lailiya Istiqomah and Jinglin Alan Zhao.  Despite the cloudy weather, the Moon, Mars and Jupiter managed to peak through the clouds for us to see.  Special mention goes to Jinglin in being the photographer for the evening and taking great photos.

The night was considered a great success in engaging with the public and school students.  An article was written in the newsletter produced by the Mathematics Club of Trinity Grammar School.  Year 12 students, Joshua Gereis and Victor Wu, wrote a great reflection on the night’s activities:

Mathematics Club Newsletter | Trinity Grammar School <Click to View>

UNSW Physics wish to thank Dr. Frederick Osman for providing the opportunity again to engage with the public and the students of Trinity Grammar School.