Solar Observation on the Summer Solstice

The IAS is pleased to arrange a FREE family friendly outdoor education event at the National Botanic Gardens from 2pm until 4pm on the Summer Solstice Saturday 21st June. There will be special safe solar adapted modern telescopes available and weather permitting you will be able to see details on the surface of the Sun. We will also have a science table at the location to explain some of the science about the Sun and the solstice event.

In the northern hemisphere the summer solstice occurs when the north pole has its maximum tilt (23.44°) towards the Sun. The Sun is at its highest position in the sky and we have the longest period of daylight and the shortest night of the year. At 3.41am on that Saturday it will be the start of the astronomical summer, a moment of cultural importance and contemplation.

WARNING: Never look at the sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars, or other optical device.