Education
"All men by nature desire to know"
- Aristotle
Where can I study Astronomy
and Space Science after school?
Interest and Entertainment
The Cape Town Planetarium - the ultimate in armchair travel! Inside the domed auditorium of the Planetarium, visitors are transported through the wonders of the universe. There are shows for all ages, as well as the popular Starfinder Astronomy Course. Tel. (021) 481 3900
The McClean Dome at the South African Astronomical
Observatory in Cape Town.
The Johannesburg
Planetarium offers a variety of shows for small
children, school groups and the general public, as well as
astronomy courses.
Tel. (011) 717 1392
The Astronomical Society of Southern Africa (ASSA) has amateur and professional astronomers as members. Membership is open to everyone interested in astronomy. ASSA has centres around the country.
The South African High Power Rocketry Association (SAHPR) has clubs around the country for the high power rocket enthusiast. Keep an eye on their website for launches in your area.
Southern African Amateur Radio Satellite Association (SA AMSAT) members use two-way radio communication to make contact with other radio amateurs all over the world.
The Cradle-Ribeiro
Observatory presents general astronomy shows and talks
to the youth, public and tourists. School and church camps,
where astronomy is the main theme, are also held. It is
located within the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage site
near Pretoria.
Tel. 082 682 4062
The Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve Observatory is a public observatory that specialises in public and scholastic instruction. Star parties, talks and shows are held on a regular basis. It is situated at the Wonder Cave outside Krugersdorp, near the Sterkfontein cave where 'Mrs Ples' was found.
The 8 inch refractor
telescope
at the Port Elizabeth People's
Observatory
(acquired in 1948).
Port Elizabeth People's Observatory is open to the public on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month and on every Wednesday during December and January. Admission is free. Viewing evenings for groups may be arranged at other times during the month.
Cederberg Observatory is operated by
seven amateur astronomers. It has excellent dark skies and
public open nights are held every Saturday except or near
full moon (weather permitting).
Tel. (021) 913 4200
Astronomy Africa
provides a range of astronomical products and services
including design and construction of private observatories
and sky watching facilities, installation and maintenance of
telescopes and equipment, astronomy education and training
courses, evening entertainment at conferences, corporate
functions and special events, travel services to prime
stargazing destinations and development programmes aimed at
advancing astronomy in Africa.
Tel. (011) 205 9040
Educational Resources
The inspiration and encouragement of future space scientists is achieved by creating awareness through education, starting right from primary school. The World Space Week website provides free access to teaching resources and activities related to space science.
The Space School
Africa Programme is organised by the National Youth
Development Trust in collaboration with the International Space
School Foundation. Students conduct research activities
under the mentorship of the NYDT, academics and practising
scientists.
For more information call +27 12 346 2409.
The Space and Aviation Challenge and Camp (organised by the University of Pretoria) is aimed at talented senior school students interested in space science.
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