Science News
World Record Attempt at Marian Catholic College
On 23rd May, Marian will be hosting a Stargazing Party to assist the Australian National University to set a World Record for the most people stargazing at the same time across a number of locations. We will also be broadcasting the Stargazing Live television broadcast onsite.
The event will run from 7 until 10 pm and include telescopes large and small for you to gaze at the night sky. Tickets are free if you bring your own telescope or binoculars or $7.15 which includes a telescope for you to keep.
Tickets are available through EventBrite at the link below. You will need to bring your ticket to the event to be eligible to participate in the World Record Attempt and to collect your telescope.
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/marian-catholic-college-star-party-tickets-45844797022
More information is also available through the Facebook page below:-
https://www.facebook.com/events/205164176942111
Larger telescopes will be available for use on-site and will be supervised by amateur astronomers associated with the College.
Join an evening of fun and excitement as we try to break a Guinness World Record for the Most People Stargazing Across Multiple Venues! This event will be held at Marian Catholic College and will include a live screening of Stargazing Live with Brian Cox.
Event Timings:
7.00pm: Event registration / Telescope collection
8.00pm: Stargazing Live broadcast commences
(World Record attempt will take place during the broadcast between 8.00pm and 9.00pm)
10.00pm: Event concludes.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
What is the World Record we are attempting to set?
We are trying to set a new Guinness World Record for Most People Stargazing Across Multiple Venues. For this record, the participants will stargaze at the Moon through a telescope or binoculars for a 10-minute period simultaneously across multiple sites throughout Australia. The current World Record, set in 2015 by us, the Australian National University, stands at 7,960 people across 37 locations. We are aiming to set a record so large that it will be nearly impossible to break again.
What are the specs of the Telescopes available for purchase?
The telescope will be 30mm in diameter, and includes an adjustable focus and even a small tripod! Telescopes will be handed out on the night, and of course, they are yours to keep. Please note: these telescopes are being sold on a cost recovery bases and the organisers make no profit on the sale of telescopes.
Can I collect my purchased telescope in advance?
No, purchased telescopes will only be available to collect on the night of the event at the venue when you register.
Can I bring my own telescope or binoculars?
Yes, you are welcome and encouraged to bring your own - please ensure you register for a 'Single World Record Participant - BYO Telescope/Binoculars' Ticket. If your telescope is very large, please contact us on marshalle@ww.catholic.edu.au to discuss logistics. Please note: any personal equipment brought to the event is at your own risk.
Can we share a telescope or pair of binoculars?
No, to participate in the World Record each person will need their own individual telescope/binoculars. Sharing these items will result in disqualification from the attempt.
What happens if it is cloudy/raining?
The event will still take place if there is cloudy/rainy weather - we only require a 10-minute viewing window on the Moon for the record attempt, so we will make every effort to participate. Unfortunately, if the weather does not clear for the 10-minute viewing window, the venue will be disqualified, and the number of participants won't count towards the World Record. Please note: in the case of a severe weather event, please check this page and your email for event updates.
Is there an age limit to participate in the event?
While there is no minimum / maximum age for participants, please bear in mind that World Record participants must be able to look through a telescope/binoculars for a 10 minute period while remaining in a specific area. Minors should be accompanied by a parent/guardian and be supervised at all times.
What can I bring to the event?
Please bring your own telescope/binoculars, if you have purchased a BYO Telescope/Binoculars ticket. We encourage attendees to bring a picnic blanket and pack a picnic. You may like to bring a jacket/warmer clothes as it may be cold, and an umbrella/poncho in the event of wet weather. Please note: this is an alcohol and drug-free event.
What's the refund policy?
No refunds will be issued as the event is free. If you are unable to make the event or if the event is cancelled due to extreme weather, your purchased telescopes will be made available for collection at a later date.
Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
Please bring your printed ticket or have the ticket available on your mobile device – this will speed up our registration process on the night.
Is my ticket transferrable?
Yes, you can give your ticket to someone else if you can no longer attend, however, we encourage you to keep your ticket secure as it will be used to collect your telescope (if purchased).