Cosmic Capers

Presenter(s): Ray Johnston

Affiliation(s): Star Dreaming Australia

Session details: Saturday, 2010-04-03 03:30:00

Abstract

One of the things learned operating an entry level observatory for over 18 years is the public’s fascination with, not only seeing the stars and planets in close-up, but the accompanying stories, myths and legends. Our summer sky contains perhaps the best-known and most conspicuous constellations and star groups. Orion, Taurus and the Pleiades are each rich in stories and in many, all three combine for a fascinating insight as to how ancient cultures read the night sky. Their brilliant stars are found on or close to the celestial equator and are therefore visible throughout the world. They played a major role in the mythologies of many ancient civilisations, and Orion and the Pleiades are mentioned in the Bible several times. So, today, let us embark on a voyage through many cultures across the world telling their stories in a presentation that is non technical and a bit of fun.

Biography

Ray is a regular NACAA contributor and operated the Great Barrier Reef Observatory on Hamilton Island for 18 years. Following on a surfeit of island decadence, Ray and his wife recently moved to the Wide Bay area. They also operated Star Dreaming, an Education Queensland approved mobile planetarium with Imax-style educational space films. Ray has a keen interest in archeo-astronomy and has made presentations to previous conventions. He is also an invited cruise lecturer with Cunard’s Insight Programme.