Aboriginal Astronomy – The Dreaming Picture.
Presenter(s): Mr Ian Maclean
Affiliation(s): Gove Amateur Astronomers
Session details: Saturday, 2010-04-03 05:00:00
Abstract
The Aboriginal Astronomy dreaming picture goes back 40,000 years and perhaps beyond. My part in that picture goes back 6 short years as I continue to discover an unfolding story which shows an in depth knowledge of the night sky. This picture has not just been a part of daily life for Aboriginal people in the NT for thousands of years, but continues to be integral in their lives to this day. The stories written in the night sky continue to teach lessons, give a sense of place, a connection to the spiritual and mark important practical events in the yearly calendar for the Yolngu people of Arnhem Land. Astronomy weaves it way into their education both formal and traditional.
Biography
Ian’s astronomy presentations for the public, school and private groups, are a regular event in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, where he weaves his special interest of Aboriginal Astronomy, into his night sky tours. Ian was honoured to have received a Paul Harris Fellowship from Rotary for his work throughout the Arnhem Land community in astronomy and science education.