Introduction: A stylish, adults-only stargazing night
Scienceworks has launched the Melbourne Planetarium’s Discover The Night Sky, a monthly stargazing series designed exclusively for adults. Hosted by renowned astronomer Dr Tanya Hill, the program blends rigorous science education with entertaining storytelling to illuminate the wonders of the night sky. It’s a forward-thinking way to experience astronomy beyond generic public talks, with a focus on immersive visuals, expert insights, and hands-on telescope viewing when weather permits.
What to expect during a typical session
Each month, visitors enter the Melbourne Planetarium aboard Scienceworks to enjoy a multisensory journey. The venue features a dazzling 16-metre domed screen that brings stars, galaxies and cosmic phenomena to life, as guests recline to learn about exoplanets, the Milky Way, and black holes. The combination of state-of-the-art visuals and Dr Hill’s accessible explanations makes complex topics approachable for beginners while still offering fresh content for seasoned stargazers.
Beyond the mesmerizing dome show, the program includes expert talks and Q&As. These segments invite participants to delve deeper into current astronomical research, ask questions, and connect with speakers who bring the science to life. When conditions permit, telescope viewings take place on the Scienceworks Arena, where amateur astronomers guide attendees through real-time observations, enhancing the sense of discovery.
Dinner and drinks beneath the stars: a social science event
Evening timing is designed for a relaxed but educational experience. The Planetarium’s galaxy bar opens at 7pm, offering drinks and light bites before or after the cosmic journey. This social element invites visitors to share insights, compare notes from the sessions, and enjoy a convivial atmosphere that complements the scientific content.
2025 lineup: a voyage through landmark celestial topics
The 2025 program has explored a diverse range of celestial subjects. Recent highlights include: discovering the Heart of the Milky Way, examining the causes and implications of the Lunar Eclipse, and delving into Saturn’s spectacular rings. Upcoming sessions will crown James Webb Space Telescope discoveries from three years of observations, followed by a tour of the night sky’s brightest stars. Each event aims to offer fresh perspectives on the universe while staying accessible to those new to astronomy and rewarding for veteran sky-watchers alike.
Why this series appeals to a broad audience
Discover The Night Sky is crafted to satisfy curiosity at every level. Dr Tanya Hill provides authoritative, engaging explanations that illuminate the latest in astronomical research, while amateur astronomers contribute practical telescope know-how and hands-on demonstrations. This blend makes it possible to appreciate our place in the cosmos—from the tiny exoplanets to the grand structure of the Milky Way—within a single evening.
Where and when to catch a session
Where: Melbourne Planetarium, Scienceworks. When: Last Thursday of each month. Time options include two sessions: 7:30pm show followed by 8:30pm stargazing, or 8:00pm stargazing followed by 9:00pm show. It’s a seamless, evening-friendly format that suits a post-work audience while preserving the magic of the night sky.
Is this series for you?
Whether you’re a curious beginner or an experienced stargazer, the program offers a compelling blend of visual storytelling, rigorous science, and practical observing. The host and guest experts structure the sessions to be informative without being inaccessible, ensuring every attendee leaves with new insights and a deeper appreciation of space science.
Takeaway
Discover The Night Sky at the Melbourne Planetarium represents a modern approach to science communication: accessible, engaging, and educational, with opportunities to observe the cosmos up close. It’s a monthly reminder that the universe is within reach, even from our own city, when guided by experts and supported by immersive technology.
