08 013 Observing the Universe

Booking will close on Friday 25th October 2024 at 12 noon.

Due to limited resources we are UNABLE TO ACCEPT LATE BOOKINGS after this date.

This course will take place in the Dalhousie Building, University of Dundee, Room 1S18.

This six-week practical astronomy course is a complete introduction to finding your way around the night sky using the unaided eye, binoculars, or a small telescope. You’ll learn how to identify the stars and constellations, recognize the planets, and follow the changing appearance of the Moon, as well as spotting more nearby phenomena such as meteors, the aurora, and orbiting satellites. This course will also look at how to record your observations, including basic imaging techniques, and will provide resources for taking your interest further.

Tutor : Brian Kelly

Brian was formerly City Astronomer for Dundee at the Mills Observatory.

A graduate of Edinburgh University, he joined the public education team at the Royal Observatory Edinburgh in 1985 before moving to the Mills Observatory in Dundee in 1990. At the Mills, Brian introduced thousands of visitors to the night sky through public observing sessions and planetary shows, and provided regular astronomy features for the Courier and Radio Tay.

Brian is currently Development Officer for Dundee Heritage Trust however astronomy remains his first love and he gives regular talks and lectures on various aspects of astronomy and space science and likes to spend clear nights with a telescope, binoculars or just the eye alone, exploring the universe for himself.

Comments from his courses with LLD held in 2023/24:

"An excellent course, presented by a thoroughly knowledgable professional who also sought and was prepared to listen to comments from the attendees".

"Brian Kelly gave an excellent, informative and enjoyable course".

"Tutor enthusiastic and very knowledgeable".

"Excellent course, well taught and fun".

"An excellent course packed with interest".

"Excellent course by knowledgeable and enthusiastic tutor".

"Interesting and infromative lectures given in a very professional manner with good engagement with the class".

"Brian's courses are always interesting, engaging, and well-prepared".

Enquiries should be sent to: [email protected]

As a volunteer organisation with limited resources we try to respond to queries as quickly as possible. Please bear with us.

Host or Publisher Lifelong Learning Dundee