American astrophysicist, author and science communicator, Neil deGrasse Tyson once said, “The good thing about science, is that it is true, whether or not you believe in it.”
Science explains how the universe works, saves lives in the medical world and through an array of inventions, it makes our lives more comfortable.
On Friday, October 26, St Dominics Newcastle hosted an Interactive Science Day. An entire day dedicated to science. “Today is to promote what St Dominics Newcastle can do and has to offer. We did robotic and scientific demonstrations,” says Cornelius Möller of St Dominics.
As the first interactive science day at St Dominics Newcastle, Möller says the main aim of the day was not only to showcase St Dominics Newcastle’s science and robotics division but also to unite the community. “It is about bringing the community together to see what they don’t usually see.”
With an array of science exhibits introducing the community to the science world, the event further saw Möller give a discussion robotics. With robotics starting to play a larger role in society, Möller’s talk focused on what robotics is about, how it works and what the future holds for robotics.
Following his talk, Newcastle’s local stargazer, Angus Burns took to the stage. “I started taking an interest in astronomy when I was nine-years-old. I’ve also been involved in astrophotography for the past six years.”
Over the years, he has built up a vast amount of knowledge on the universe. He is also a professional conservationist working for WWF-SA. Through his work at the WWF-SA and hobby in astrophotography, Burns promotes science, nature and technology on a regular basis.
His talk at the Interactive Science day was divided into three parts. “The first part of my talk focuses on biodiversity, conservation and going back to the basis.”
The second part looked at astronomy, the universe, planets, deeper space and sharing his images of which the bulk was taken in Newcastle. The third part of his talk looked at Celestron innovations which allow people to explore the universe in their backyard.
Graham Lynch, the CEO of GL Agencies, also attended the event. “Angus is the main reason G&L Agencies is here, as he puts so much into the community.”
As an agency that is a supplier to the photographic and video markets, as well as supplying accessories to the digital imaging and outdoor markets, Lynch says events such as the interactive science day play an important role in the community.
“St Dominics Newcastle is really doing something right. This is a great way to introduce astronomy to children. It also exposes children to different things in the science world, encouraging learning,” he adds.
The day is one to be remembered, combining education and fun. It was thoroughly enjoyed by one and all.
