Hermitage Hotel big sky stargazing

Introduction

Students view the night sky from the Hermitage Hotel planetarium then use telescopes outside.

This evening session commences in the planetarium with an overview of the night sky. Then students move outside, where expert guides show them how to use telescopes to study Saturn's rings, Jupiter's moons, the Southern Cross, star clusters, galaxies and much more, appropriate to the conditions.

Level

Year groups: 6-13
Curriculum levels: 3-8

Learning areas

Learning Area*

Discipline

Strand/AO

Science

Planet earth and beyond - Astronomical systems

A.S. 1.15, 1.16, 2.2

investigate components of the solar system

Investigate interactions between celestial cycles

Social Studies

Understand innovation creates opportunities

Understand how management of resources impacts on environmental sustainability

Technology

Nature of technology

Characteristics A.S. 1.8, 1.9

*If you have another learning area you wish to explore, we can adapt. 

      Learning objectives

      Students will:

      • identify features of the southern sky
      • understand our galaxy in context and recognise the scientific applications of astronomy
      • appreciate Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Mackenzie basin for its low levels of atmospheric and light pollution.

        Key competencies

        Managing self, contributing and relating to others

        Details

        Location: Hermitage Hotel
        Duration: 1 hour plus (seasonal variations)
        Hazard level: Minimal (warm clothing must be worn)
        Cost: $31 per student (charges may change without prior notification, so ask if interested)