Look to the Skies at Questacon

21 September 2006

Is Jupiter almost a star? How fast is a comet? Why does Saturn have rings? Renowned Australian photographer Steve Parish will share this knowledge and more as he launches his latest book Amazing Facts about Australia’s Southern Skies on Friday 6 October at Questacon – the National Science and Technology Centre. To coincide with the book launch Questacon is holding a special evening to help you discover the wonders of astronomy with star gazing, book signing and the chance to learn more about the skies above.

Steve Parish, Australia’s best known and most successful Australiana photographer has a passion for natural history and a desire to share his discoveries with others. Sharing Australia with the world has become his reason for being. His latest book Amazing Facts about Australia’s Southern Skies explores the wonders of the universe with detailed constellation star maps, fascinating facts and even how to spot planets with information from one of the world’s most passionate astronomers Gary Welch.

Steve says, “With so many amazing things in the universe many of us don’t know they are even there or how to recognize them. Many of the brightest and best celestial objects can be best seen, or only seen from the Southern Hemisphere and Australia’s vast open spaces make it the perfect place to star gaze.”

Questacon will stage a special astronomy night to celebrate the book launch and best of all it’s free to attend. Steve will talk about his book and sign copies for attendees. Star gazing will occur with expert astronomers showing you how to use a range of Saxon telescopes so you can take your knowledge home and explore in your own backyard.

Questacon Director, Graham Durant is excited to have Steve launching his book at Questacon “We are delighted to have Steve here to launch such an interesting book and that Questacon goers get the chance to find out more about astronomy. Education and making science fun and relevant for everyone is our mantra at Questacon. The event is open to the public and we hope Canberrans take this opportunity to come and learn more about Astronomy.”