Astronomy - 12 Steps to the Moon

The Moon is our companion world in space and is the biggest and brightest object we can view in the night sky. There is an aura of mystery around its waxing and waning during the month, along with the myths and lore woven by many peoples. The Moon is also strongly represented in popular culture such as in works of art and music, along with the interest around supermoons.

This course will explore the many facets of the Moon under the following topics, along with a sprinkling of other astronomical sights to look for:

The Moon and its characteristics (general introduction);

The Moon’s many motions (phases and movement on the sky);

Observing the Moon – Part 1 (the Moon by eye and binoculars);

The romance of the Moon (in the Arts);

More on lunar motions;

The Moon, Myth and Mystery (folklore);

Observing the Moon – Part 2 (further features to see);

Blood Moons and Dark Suns (eclipses);

The Moon in History (perception and mapping);

Exploration of the Moon (spaceflight);

Observing the Moon – Part 3 (The Moon as a world);

Wrap up and going further

Each session will outline a current feature of the night sky.
There will be additional speakers that will contribute on particular subjects during the course.