An intensive astronomy and astrotourism course will take place in the Coromandel later this year, offering participants a hands-on introduction to observing and understanding the night sky.

The three-day course will run in Kuaotunu from the afternoon of Friday, September 18, until 5pm on Sunday, September 20, and is open to astrotourism guides, amateur astronomers and members of the public, a media release about the course said.

The programme is being delivered by the Aotearoa Astrotourism Academy (AAA), a non-profit organisation established in 2021 by Professor John Hearnshaw, an emeritus professor of astronomy at the University of Canterbury, and Nalayini Davies, the president of DarkSky International.

Professor Hearnshaw said the course would feature an intensive mix of talks and practical workshops, including night-time observing sessions led by seven instructors with expertise in astronomy and astrotourism.

Topics will include astrophotography, Māori astronomy and Matariki, as well as the fundamentals of star observation with binoculars or small telescopes.

The course is aimed at anyone interested in learning more about the night sky; no prior astronomy knowledge is required.

Organisers said it will also appeal to earth and space science teachers seeking a refresher in astronomy, astrophysics and practical observing skills.

The main venue will be the Kuaotunu Community Hall on Jack Black Rd, about 16km north of Whitianga. Participants will also visit the nearby Stargazers’ Bed and Breakfast and observatory, operated by local astronomer Alastair Brickell.

Stargazers’ Observatory, Kuaotunu. Photo / Supplied

Guest speakers include Holt Planetarium director Bruce Ngataierua, who will present on Matariki and te arorangi Māori; John Drummond will lead an astrophotography workshop; Nalayini Davies will host a session on establishing astrotourism ventures; and Professor Hearnshaw will deliver talks on astronomical coordinates, stellar naming and astrophysics.

Astronomer Alan Gilmore will outline key objects visible in the southern sky, and Gareth Davies will showcase observations from the Unistellar EVscope and discuss international dark sky accreditation.

Brickell will act as the local course manager.

Organisers said the academy’s immersive two-and-a-half-day courses are designed to inspire participants through practical experience and expert-led learning.

Further information and registrations are available at the AAA website, with inquiries via [email protected].