18th February Lecture: Space Dogs – and their legacy

During the 1950s and 1960s the Soviet space program used dogs for sub-orbital and orbital space flights to determine whether human spaceflight was feasible. In this period, the Soviet Union launched missions with passenger slots for at least 57 dogs. Most survived; the few that died were lost mostly through technical failures. In this fascinating talk Dr Pete Edwards, Director of Science Outreach at Durham…

Thursday 21st December: Moon Watch & Stargazing Event (Cygnus Observatory & Washington Wetlands Centre)

Back by popular demand, Sunderland Astronomical Society are will be hosting a unique Moon Watch and Stargazing event at our base of operations (Cygnus Observatory and Washington Wetlands Centre). Join Sunderland Astronomical Society for this public Moon Watch & Stargazing event. See the moon in stunning detail through many telescopes and enjoy a tour of…

17th December Lecture: Planetary Nebula

In this months talk, Graham Darke the Society’s honorary President will introduce us to a fascinating class of astronomical object. He will cover the discovery of these objects in the 18th Century, their properties and what makes them of interest to both professional and amateur astronomers. Graham will explain techniques for observing and capturing images…

19th November Lecture: Instrument Scientists – Working behind the stage of astronomical research

Until not too long ago, astronomers often made their own instruments of telescopes or devices attached behind them. However, in Astronomy today the technology  way too diverse and specialised, and the instruments are very sophisticated /complicated and large to be developed single handed. Usually a whole group of engineers, scientists and technicians are needed to…