An astronomy night was held last Saturday at Dwejra Tower, Gozo, organised by the Department of Physics and the Institute of Space Sciences & Astronomy (ISSA) of the University of Malta, in collaboration with The Astronomical Society of Malta and Din l-Art Helwa.

The event was intended to inspire the public – and in particular youngsters – about the night sky. It specifically reached out to students of all ages to inform them about the excellent prospects available to those who pursue studies in core science subjects such as physics, and the possibility to specialise their studies in areas such as astrophysics within ISSA and the Department of Physics.

Prof Kristian Zarb Adami, director of ISSA, remarked how attendance at this event really brought to light the public thirst for science outreach events.

"It really encourages us professional researchers who, besides working on the largest telescopes in the world, can see the enthusiasm of generations both young and old asking probing questions about our environment and the universe we live in. ISSA hopes to be able to offer a path to quench this thirst through the provision of online astronomy courses both at an undergraduate and postgraduate level."

The event also sought to raise awareness about light pollution and draw attention to the sensitive site of Dwejra, which is one of the last remaining dark-sky sites on the Maltese islands.

The activity attracted a large number of Gozo residents, who would normally have to travel to mainland Malta in order to participate in such events.

Following a short talk about the geological and ecological features of Dwejra by biologist Prof. Sandro Lanfranco and a short overview of astronomy and the night sky by astrophysicist Dr Joseph Caruana, those present were invited to shift their gaze to the sky above, peering at a number of objects through telescopes that were set up on site.

While the weather was not ideal, the public could enjoy views of three planets currently in view, namely Mars, Jupiter and Saturn.

The reaction on the faces of children witnessing for their first time the sight of the ringed planet was etched in the memory of the astronomers volunteering for the event.

A highlight of the evening was the appearance of the International Space Station, which happened to be crossing the sky shortly after 9pm.

Prof. Charles Sammut, head of the Department of Physics and Dean of the Faculty of Science, commented that the feedback received from over 200 people participating was very positive and encouraging.

"The Department of Physics and ISSA, in collaboration with the Faculty of Science, which is celebrating its first centenary, will be organising other events intended to reach out to the general public and especially young students to share with them the excitement and beauty of science, apart from its fundamental importance in society."

Photo credit: Ian Grech

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