Festival of Astronomy and Space

The University of Southern Queensland is celebrating World Space Week with the UniSQ Festival of Astronomy and Space, offering a series of free public events that bring the cosmos closer to the community.

Highlights include:

A Comet's Tale

• When: 4 October, 6pm – 7.30pm
• Where: Auditorium, UniSQ Springfield (in-person and online)

Join Professor Jonti Horner as he explores the fascinating world of comets – where they come from, how they behave, and what they reveal about our universe. With the 'Great Comet' C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) currently visible and due to be at its best in the week of 12 October, this event offers a chance to learn about these cosmic wonders. Weather permitting, the talk will include a live cross to Queensland’s only professional astronomical observatory, at Mt Kent, south of Toowoomba. More information.

Space Instruments

• When: 10 October, 6pm – 9pm
• Where: L Block, UniSQ Toowoomba (in-person and online)

Associate Professor Duncan Wright will explore space-based instruments like the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes, highlighting their contributions to science. UniSQ's lead for the Twinkle Space Mission and manager of the MINERVA-Australis facility will also discuss his exoplanetary research and involvement in NASA's TESS mission. There will also be a talk from a surprise special guest who recently led the discovery of a new alien world that received global media attention! More information.

When Galaxies Collide

• When: 11 October 11, 6pm – 7.30pm
• Where: Room L206, UniSQ Toowoomba (in-person and online)

Research Fellow Dr Rebecca McElroy will explore the powerful cosmic events that occur when galaxies collide. This keynote will focus on how galaxy mergers trigger star formation, activate central engines, and drive the evolution of galaxies over billions of years. Attendees will gain insight into the dramatic processes behind galaxy growth and change. Weather permitting, the talk will be followed by a live cross to Queensland’s only professional astronomical observatory, at Mt Kent, south of Toowoomba. More information.

Curious Kids: All Your Space Questions Answered!

• When: October 12, 3pm – 5pm
• Where: Room L206, UniSQ Toowoomba (in-person only)

This event features a panel of renowned scientists ready to tackle your burning questions about space in a kid-friendly way, ensuring explanations are accessible and engaging. It’s a unique opportunity for young learners to explore life, the universe, and everything without the academic jargon. More information.