Space South Central joins sell-out Portsmouth Stargazing event

The Space South Central team joined one of their academic partners, the University of Portsmouth, for its annual Portsmouth Stargazing event at the Historic Dockyard on Wednesday evening (31 January).

Hosted by the university’s Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation (ICG) and the National Museum of the Royal Navy, over 800 visitors of all ages enjoyed expert-led astronomy at the free event, which aims to make the wonders and mysteries of the universe accessible to all.

Space South Central activities included virtual reality headsets with educational space games and a competition to guess major landmarks featured in earth observation satellite images. 

Also in attendance were navigation experts from the National Museum of the Royal Navy, amateur astronomers from Hampshire Astronomical Group, space engineers from Airbus Defence and Space, the Dark Skies team from South Downs National Park, as well as a number of regional companies Seekers Create, Eureco Technologies Ltd., & In-Space Missions. 

The clouds and wind didn’t dampen the public’s enthusiasm, as budding astronomers experienced a virtual reality tour of the universe, felt 3D print-outs of the galaxy and learned about the science behind time and space.

Guests peered through telescopes, discovered how sailors navigate by the stars and delved deeper into the wonders of the Universe at Action Stations and on board HMS Warrior. Expert astronomers also gave short talks on space, cosmology, black holes, satellites and dark matter, and were on hand to answer questions during the event. 

Portsmouth Stargazing has been running for 11 years, including during the pandemic when the event went online.

Dr Jen Gupta, Associate Professor in Public Engagement and Outreach at the university, said: 

“Stargazing is always such a brilliant event, and we love being able to share our cosmology and astrophysics research with people of all ages.” 

“This free event sells out every year, which shows that there is a real passion for science out there! We hope the public feel inspired by all the amazing work that goes on in and around our city, and are grateful to all the exhibitors who gave up their evening to share their work at the event.”