Under the star-studded canvas of the night sky, the local observatory invites the public to embark on a journey through the cosmos tonight.

The Tuesday evening meeting at Tauranga Observatory will celebrate the heroes of the past and embrace the limitless possibilities of the cosmic future, as well as provide an opportunity to look at the sky through one of the telescopes, weather permitting.

Tauranga Astronomical Society member Raewyn Forrest will be taking the audience through an exploration of the extraordinary lives and achievements of ‘Heroes of Space, Science and Astronomy’.

A separate short presentation will also take everyone on a captivating voyage into the depths of the Alpha Centauri solar system, unravelling its mysteries and potential for human exploration. The solar system is the closest to our own solar system.

Included in the fascinating evening, the organisers will delve into the latest ground-breaking discoveries and missions from esteemed space agencies like NASA, ESA, and Rocket Lab, shedding light on the ever-evolving frontier of astronomy and space exploration.

NASA Space Shuttle. Photo: TAS.

And what could be better icing on the cake than an update on Tauranga Astronomical Society’s latest meteor camera captures, plus a selection of other interesting videos and items.

“Saturn is now high enough to be viewed throughout the evening. Scorpius and the Southern Cross are the main constellations currently visible,” says Tauranga Astronomical Society president David Greig.

“Weather permitting, there may be opportunities for viewing sessions through our various telescopes.”

Admission to the meeting which starts at 7.30pm, is $5 for visitors, and free for members and school age children. Please note that there is no Eftpos available, so bring cash only.

“At around 8.20pm, we will have a 10 minute break,” says David. “Tea/coffee/Milo and biscuits are available for $2. The main meeting ends around 9pm. Some families with young children choose to leave during or after the break. If the sky is clear, telescope viewing may continue on after 9pm for those remaining.”

Saturn. Photo: TAS.

David would like to find more people interested in learning how to use the society’s telescopes and becoming part of their team to help with viewing nights.

“Our regular public meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month from February to November at 7.30pm.”

Presentations are given at the meetings on current astronomical topics. All those interested in astronomy in the Bay of Plenty district are invited to attend.

Optional 12 -month membership is $40 for individuals, $50 for families, or $20 for tertiary students. This gives free entry to any of the meetings, access to the loan telescopes where a hire fee and bond may apply, and access to the extensive library.

“Check out our extensive range of TAS caps, beanies, polo and tee shirts, hoodies and jackets. They make great gifts for astronomy enthusiasts of all ages.”

The Tauranga Astronomical Society observatory is located in the Otumoetai Sports & Recreation Club building in Fergusson Park, end of Tilby Drive, Matua, Tauranga. The meeting starts at 7.30pm, Tuesday October 10.