For years, Liverpool has been famous for being a place for those who love astronomy and would like to learn more about the stars.
The Liverpool Astronomical Society recently celebrated 139 years of promoting the science of astronomy, holding events at the Leighton Observatory and offering captivating telescope experiences that allow people to look at the stars in groups.
Not everyone may be ready to join the LAS though and may feel like they are a total beginner. Before spending money on a telescope or going on an astronomy course, people in Liverpool can ease their way into astronomy before becoming an avid fan.
Where to Start
For many beginner astronomers, people often find inspiration in the plethora of space-fuelled TV shows, films, and games – both fictional and non-fictional. From the classic, like Star Wars and Star Trek, which inspired wholes generations of people who now aspired to look at the stars for a living, to scientific TV shows – for example, Brian Cox’ catalogue of popular BBC titles such as Stargazing Live and The Planets.
Inspiration can also be found further afield, in places that you might not have considered – such as the gaming industry. For example, there have been popular title such as Mass Effect and Star Wars: Battlefront that have allowed players to explore an immense, if fictional, world of outer space. Furthermore, titles like Universe Sandbox go further into fuelling the inherent human inquisitiveness with the stars, allowing players to craft their own universe, change atmospheric conditions and cultivate planets. In the iGaming industry, there are further examples of this historical pop-culture interest in the stars. For example, the Starburst slot utilises outer space images and motifs, creating a classic retro theme that quenches players’ thirst for the cosmic.
Visit These Events
The Liverpool Astronomical Society isn’t the only group of astronomers in Liverpool that hosts successful and popular astronomy events. For example, there are those which the Southport Astronomical Society regularly hosts where astronomers observe the stars and discus interesting theories and personal observations.
There are also the Telescope Walking Tours at the Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre. At these events, you can walk around the base of the Lovell Telescope, learning more about how it works and the history behind this impressive structure.
Talk to the University
Furthermore, for those looking to further their investment in our galaxy, The University of Liverpool offers a world-renowned three-year physics with astronomy degree. The course entails study everything, from the life and death of the stars and our planet, as well as allowing for students to undertake independent research into their chosen field of astronomy. In terms of transforming your hobby into a profession, this is the pathway to take.
All over the UK there are telescope sites and astronomy groups, but Liverpool is arguably one of the hot-spots for astronomy-lovers. There is so much to be discovered and learn in the city, with options for people who possess different degrees of passion for the subject.