Those with a passion for the stars, the planets, and the universe headed to Seething Observatory for the first of a series of public events.

Eastern Daily Press: The Seething Observatory, near Bungay. Picture: Norwich Astronomical SocietyThe Seething Observatory, near Bungay. Picture: Norwich Astronomical Society (Image: Archant)

The Norwich Astronomical Society (NAS) kicked off its annual events, which take place in autumn and winter, with two nights of talks, tours, and the opportunity to see astronomers in action.

Seething Observatory, near Bungay, is home to NAS with anyone keen to learn more about space, astronomy and the universe, regardless of age or prior knowledge welcome at the talks.

On Friday, September 21 and Saturday, September 22, the events started with a presentation from TV astronomer, author, and NAS president, Mark Thompson.

Mr Thompson took the audience through the top five biggest questions about the universe, including; what is dark matter and dark energy, what happened before the Big Bang, and are we alone in the universe?.

Guests were then able to explore the observatory and participate in tours of the two domes on the site while NAS members focused their telescopes on clear skies when possible.

Last Friday, visitors were able to see the moon and Mars clearly due to clear skies, but due to a cloudy Saturday night, presentations showing the capabilities of the telescopes were shown to interested onlookers.

More opportunities to explore the observatory will be available over the coming months, with events taking place on October 12, 13, 26, November 16 and 15, and December 14 and 15.

A spokesman for NAS said: “NAS welcomes anyone who would like to know more about the Universe to its future public evenings at the Observatory

“There is an additional NAS public night on 8th December. Wild Winter – Stargazing for All will be taking place away from the Observatory at the Cley Marshes on the Norfolk coast.

“NAS members will be bringing their telescopes and resident astrophotographer Shaun Reynolds is providing an introductory talk.”

Further information about the talks and events available at https://www.norwichastro.org.uk/events/category/talks-open.

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