Portsmouth Stargazing 10th Anniversary Event Inspires All Ages

Visitors of all ages were treated to an evening of expert-led astronomy at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard as the University of Portsmouth’s annual Stargazing event celebrated its 10th anniversary.

Hosted by the university’s Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation (ICG) and the National Museum of the Royal Navy, with support from the Hampshire Astronomical Group, the free event aims to make the wonders and mysteries of the universe accessible to all.

Rain meant that the telescopes couldn’t be used, but that 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.

Aboard HMS Warrior, visitors learned how sailors used the night skies to navigate and the artefacts they used to help. Expert astronomers gave short talks on space, cosmology and stargazing and were on hand to answer questions during the event.

The event, on Wednesday 25 January, also marked the first time that Stargazing was held in person since the pandemic when it went online.

Dr Jen Gupta, Senior Public Engagement and Outreach Fellow at the university, said: “Stargazing is about getting the public involved in what we do at the ICG.

“A lot of people don’t realise the sort of research we do even happens in Portsmouth, so it is great to spread the word and share what we do with families.

“It also gives them the chance to ask our experts questions, and hopefully, it will inspire younger visitors to take physics at A-level and learn more about the subject.”

A parent who attended with their children aged six and four, told the Portsmouth News: “It has been a great evening, and it is so interesting.

“Living in the city, we don’t always see stars, but the kids enjoy it. It isn’t something they get to learn about all the time.”