We live on a beautiful planet, one capable of supporting human, animal and plant life. Is it the only one? Is there a planet B out there?

FEATURE EVENT(16/8): 6.30pm-9.30pm

Hear from Australian Astrophysicist, Rob Wittenmyer about how Minerva Australis is contributing to our knowledge of planets outside of solar system.

Optional Extras include: Dinner, Supper and viewing at the telescopes.

Fauna and Firmament  15/8: 5.00pm-8.00pm)

We often look up to the stars to search for life and often miss the amazing animal life right beneath our feet. We’ve joined forces with Golden Nugget Discovery Tours are joining forces to present to you an extraordinary dual journey – a nocturnal wildlife exploration paired with an insightful night sky viewing. You’ll be led through the rustling foliage by a seasoned guide, who will help you safely navigate and hopefully encounter a selection of the unique nocturnal creatures that call the bush their home. Then you’ll return to the Ballarat Observatory to view the wonderful cosmos above through our telescopes and discuss the possibilities for life on other planets

Viewing at the telescopes + Exoplanet
Presentation  (10/8, 13/8,15/8: 7.00pm-8.30pm)

Gaze at the beauty of the universe through a telescope and learn more about the search for planets outside of our Solar System (exoplanet). If cloudy, a tour of the observatory will replace telescope viewing.

The how behind finding planet B.  (13/8,15/8: 4:00pm-5.30pm)

Over 5,500 planets have been found by human scientists but they haven’t all been found the same way. Find out the various ways we find planets around other stars.