A Sunny Day at the NLO June 13th 2009

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On Saturday June 13th 2009 the Norman Lockyer Observatory, Sidmouth, Devon, is holding a major Solar Event celebrating the 140th anniversary of Sir Norman Lockyer's discovery of Helium in the sun. This is part of the International Year of Astronomy 2009 celebrations. The event: "A Sunny Day at the NLO" will be open to the public and there will be lectures about the history of solar observing to "how to observe the Sun safely" and all the latest in our understanding of how the Sun works.

The solar spectrum will be displayed using Lockyer's siderostat, and live images of the Sun in H-alpha and white light will be exhibited if conditions allow.Trade stands will be on hand to demonstrate the use of solar power and the latest green technology from photovoltaics to solar hot water systems. Other events include a competition for the best designed solar powered model, while planetarium shows and telescope tours will be held throughout the day. There will also be a Hands on Science Busking Event run by the Institute of Physics. We will have a demonstration of solar cookers and dished collectors, and a Solargraphy exhibition demonstrating the yearly path of the Sun around the sky.

Some of the UK's top solar scientists will be giving lectures about the Sun including, Prof Douglas Gough (Institute of Astronomy, Cambridge) and Dr. Francisco Diego (Univ. College London). Pete Lawrence (BBC Sky at Night) will be demonstrating solar imaging. Peter Meadows (BAA - How to observe the Sun safely). The event is being sponsored by the Royal Astronomical Society.

Refreshments in the form of a catering van will be available throughout the day.

The event will run from 9.00 am - 6.00pm

Entry: £5.00/adult £2.50/child

Details: http://www.normanlockyer.org/