We pick the best live and virtual astronomy events and resources this month
PICK OF THE MONTH
Making Pictures of the Sky
Augustine United Church, Edinburgh, 2 June, 7:30pm
The Royal Observatory Edinburgh is 200 years old and to mark the occasion the Astronomical Society of Edinburgh hosts this special talk from the University of Edinburgh’s Prof Andy Lawrence. A renowned astrophysicist based at the Observatory and honorary president of the society, he’ll discuss 200 years of astro imaging – from the earliest experiments with cameras on mountain tops to the latest images from the JWST – and look at the vital role played by the Observatory in some of the most important developments. Free, but booking is essential. For more details, visit bit.ly/200yearsastroimaging.
In Search of the Goddess of the Dawn
Aston University, Birmingham, 27 June, 7:30pm
Andy Ritchie Green, BSC FRAS, who has been photographing aurorae for over 13 years, discusses the mechanics of the aurora, his own experiences and the many legends and myths that surround it. www.birmingham-astronomy.co.uk
Confessions of an X-ray Pyromaniac
West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire, 8 June, 7:45pm
Nottingham Astronomical Society presents a lecture by Dr Phil Evans from the University of Leicester, who leads the university’s involvement with the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. Non-members are welcome. nottinghamastro.org.uk
Bad Astronomy in the Movies
Cottingham Civic Centre, East Riding of Yorkshire, 12 June, 7:30pm
Most of us have winced at the shockingly bad science in Hollywood movies. Now Prof Brad Gibson from the University of Hull rounds up some of the worst examples in a talk that will entertain and educate in equal measure. www.heras.org.uk
Open mic night
Henry Dixon Hall, Rivenhall End, Essex, 21 June, 7:30pm
In a departure from its normal meetings, North Essex Astronomical Society opens its doors to non-members and invites society members to give 10-minute talks on a topic of their own choosing. £2 members, £3 non-members. www.northessexastro.co.uk
Look Up! A Summer Night Sky Tour
Armagh Planetarium, Armagh, daily from 24 June, 1pm
A dome show with a live presenter guiding you through some of the most exciting objects that can be seen in the night sky over Northern Ireland this summer. Adults £9, accompanied under 16s £6.50, family tickets available. www.armagh.space
Planetary Protection: What is it and Why is it so Important?
University of Wales Trinity Saint David Campus, King’s Road, Swansea, 29 June, 7:15pm
Dr Nik Whitehead from UWTSD discusses the perils and pitfalls of returning samples, equipment – and potentially crew – from Mars and other distant worlds in this free public lecture hosted by Swansea Astronomical Society. Potential members and members from other astronomy societies are welcome. www.swanastro.org.uk