Reaching for the stars

Over five days in October 2022, enthusiastic citizen scientists converged on Tamworth in NSW with a common aim - to immerse themselves in five days of intensive astronomical activities. Travelling from as far away as Cairns, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, they were drawn by the unique opportunity of hands-on learning offered by the inaugural Tamworth Astronomy Experience. Organised by the passionate volunteers of the Tamworth Regional Astronomy Club (TRAC), with assistance from Dr Stephen Bosi, Senior Physics Lecturer at the University of New England, this event provided a unique and engrossing experience for the participants. Most of the attendees were retired professionals, keen to learn about topics such as space travel, making lenses and mirrors, and astrophotography processing. Also in attendance were two very bright 16-year-old students with their accompanying adults,…