If your kids enjoy astronomy, star gazing or simply have an interest in space then this resource is designed to help them explore it further, right here in Brisbane. This will be a resource we add to often.
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The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is a must-see place for budding astronomers in Brisbane. Although some presentations require tickets, general admission is free! The Planetarium focuses on education with an easy approach for kids to follow. It features display areas, interactive activities, feature shows, an observatory, and even a Galaxy Gift Shop!
The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is located within the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, on Mt Coot-tha Road at Mt Coot-tha. See here for further details about everything to see and do at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium or visit the Brisbane Planetarium website for more information.
Brisbane Astronomical Society
The Brisbane Astronomical Society is a group of enthusiastic amateur astronomers who love to share their knowledge of astronomy and impart practical advice to both novice and experienced observers. It is the perfect starting point for kids who are interested in astronomy. Visit their website at bas.asn.au for dates of upcoming events, or head to their Facebook page for the latest updates.
You can also become a member of the Brisbane Astronomical Society (currently $40 for the whole family for a year, as at October 2021). This gives you access to a wide selection of library material, equipment hire, meetings and newsletters, and invitations to exclusive society events, including monthly Star BQs and Astrocamps held away from the city lights.
Redlands Astronomical Society
The Redlands Astronomical Society is a community-based astronomy interest group suitable for all ages and knowledge levels. The society organises FREE Public viewing nights where you will see planets, nebulae and even faint galaxies through the clubs’ telescopes. You can also bring your telescope if you want help learning how to use it. The public viewing nights are weather-dependent at Doug Tiller Reserve, Montgomery Drive, Wellington Point. See their event calendar for upcoming nights.
The Redlands Astronomical Society also offers lots of extra resources and involvement for those who wish to become members . They also offer school education nights for a small fee per student.
South East Queensland Astronomical Society
The South East Queensland Astronomical Society’s members have many years of experience in amateur astronomy so they are more than suited to help everyone with their enjoyment and satisfaction of astronomy. They offer many FREE community activities where you can join the group to see the stars, planets, nebula and galaxies in the night sky. They can also help you make the right decision when looking to buy a telescope or help you solve problems using your telescope.
The South East Queensland Astronomical Society also offers a school night program which aims to provide members of the school community with the opportunity to observe the wonders of the night sky at a low cost per person. You can also join the society for exclusive access to club events and activities.
Spot the Station Over Brisbane
Kids who are into astronomy will love being able to step outside and spot the International Space Station crossing the night sky! The space station is visible to the naked eye and is so bright that it is easy for kids to spot. They will love gazing at the orbiting research lab, realising that astronauts are up there right now, and pondering the reality of life in space.
To learn more about the International Space Station, find out when it is going over Brisbane and for some fun facts about the space station, you will like our resource specifically about the International Space Station.
Stargazing Help for Brisbane Kids
You don’t have to join a group or pay much money for your kids to enjoy stargazing. Many free and cheap stargazing apps are available for Apple or Android devices. Download them to your phone or tablet, and you can enjoy exploring the night stay and learning about planets, stars and constellations right from your own backyard! See here for our fantastic guide to apps to help you read the stars.
Further Resources
There are also many online resources for kids who are interested in astronomy. For example, https://spaceaustralia.com/ provides news of fascinating developments in astronomy, astrophysics, cosmology, spaceflight and earth observation science. Or visit abc.net.au/science/starhunt for a beginner’s guide to the night sky, for spotting stars, planets and galaxies and discovering fascinating Indigenous stories.
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