An opportunity to view the sun safely through solar telescopes, visit planetarium shows and enjoy astronomy displays will all be part of a special ‘Reach for the Stars’ event at Soho House on 11 July, 12 noon – 4pm. Admission free.
The event has been organised in association with Birmingham Astronomical Society and the Royal Society and will celebrate Matthew Boulton’s fascination with astronomy. The event will also include tours of the roof of Soho House where Boulton used to observe the night sky (tours bookable on the day).
At the nearby St Michaels Church, visitors will be able to have an introduction to understanding the night sky with the help of Black Hole Planetarium who will be showing how to pick out stars and spot constellations. There are plenty of family activities, including ‘out of this world’ face painting for youngsters.
Councillor Martin Mullaney, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Sport and Culture, said: “As we await the announcement for UK City of Culture we can be proud that Birmingham has some of the finest museums in the country. This free event will provide local people with a fun and educational insight into astronomy and a chance to discover more about Matthew Boulton.”
The event recognises the 350th anniversary of The Royal Society, which is holding activities throughout the year that promote the spirit of enquiry, excitement and engagement with science and working with organisations, across the country to raise the profile of science and bring scientific activities to new audiences.
Part of this includes the Local Heroes programme, which has seen the Society working with over seventy museums and galleries around the UK to celebrate their local scientific heroes – including Boulton, who was a keen astronomer.“
The event also marks the 60th anniversary of the Birmingham Astronomical Society, who organise events and meet weekly at Aston University, for further details please visit birmingham-astronomy.co.uk
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Media Contact: Jason Lewis: 0121 303 4266, jason_lewis@birmingham.gov.uk
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