[CDU eNews] - TWINKLE TWINKLE TWINKLE, LITTLE STAR . . .

[Peter.Hurt at cdu.edu.au]

Superstars in a celestial ballet

Darwin star-lovers this weekend can take part in special laser guided tours
of a rare gathering of planets Venus, Saturn and Mercury.

The three planets will appear very close together in a triple planetary
conjunction in the western twilight sky - although, of course, they are
millions of kilometres apart.

Charles Darwin University astronomer, Geoff Carr said today: "The last time
this trio appeared this close together was in 1985, the next will be in
2008, then not until 2041 will this happen again.

"A duel planetary conjunction is common, but a triple conjunction is rare."

Mr Carr said he would be conducting special laser guided tours of the rare
and beautiful gathering for five nights, from Saturday June 25.

"The three have been converging toward each other for weeks and will be at
their closest over the next few nights," he said.

"But the celestial ballet will continue into next week, as Venus and
Mercury have another very close encounter.  Mercury is rocketing upward and
will soon pass Venus.  The two get very close indeed, before the
'fleet-footed Messenger' then begins moving away and downward.

"This is a beautiful arrangement of planets and a great opportunity for
people to see the elusive Mercury as well. It's good timing for the
conjunction, as we have many wonderful constellations high in the sky and
in the perfect position for viewing.

"As a bonus we are due for a magnificent passover from the International
Space Station on Tuesday evening."

Mr Carr said a laser beam would highlight the conjunction for observers.
"Our laser pointer can shine almost a kilometre into the sky. The green
beam appears to touch the stars, which means nobody gets confused about
what constellations we're seeing.

"When planets get close to each other their subtle colours become more
apparent, and their motion is far more obvious.  Onlookers are often
surprised at how much they can move even from one day to the next."

Tours begin at Sunset Park (at the Sunset or Jetty end of Aralia Street,
Nightcliff) from 7 to 7.30pm each evening from Saturday until Wednesday
evening.  Cost is adults $6, children $3, families $10.



Geoff Carr is available for interview on 0417 847 967


Peter Hurt
Media Manager
Charles Darwin University
Tel: 08 8946 6019 or 0438 466 439

CRICOS Provider No: 00300K