The International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) is set to visit regional Western Australia delivering world-class astronomy outreach and hands- on science experiences to local communities and schools.
ICRAR’s Engagement team will visit regional towns in the Mid West, including Morawa, Mullewa, Yalgoo, Cue and Mount Magnet, to deliver engaging science activities for local communities and schools.
ICRAR Outreach team members at a previous community astronomy event in Cue in 2024. Credit: Michael Goh Photography
The initiative was made possible by ICRAR securing an Inspiring Australia WA grant as part of National Science Week.
Leah Kalimeris, Engagement and Outreach Coordinator at ICRAR, said the grant allowed ICRAR to bring the wonders of the Universe to some of WA’s most remote communities.
“We’re giving people a chance to explore black holes, galaxies, and the science behind some of the world’s biggest radio telescopes – many of which are right here in their own backyard,” Mrs Kalimeris said.
“We know people are intrigued by space and astronomy, and we want to share our knowledge about this with the local community to ensure space and astronomy are accessible to everyone.”
The visit will include free community stargazing nights where families and the local community have a rare opportunity to look through powerful telescopes, chat with astronomers, learn about the night sky, hear about science happening here in WA with the SKA Project and at the same time, make the most of WA’s beautiful dark skies.
“It’s not only about stargazing,” Ms Kalimeris said. “It’s also about igniting a lifelong interest in science, helping people see a future for themselves in STEM and ensuring that regional WA is part of the conversation when it comes to big science.”
The regional visit starts on Wednesday 6 August and will run through National Science Week, which takes place from August 9 to 17, 2025.
For full details and a list of events, please visit – https://www.icrar.org/nswk-midwest-25/
