SANParks Honorary Rangers visit HartRAO for a sunset tour and stargazing activities

On Saturday, 26 October 2024, more than 50 members of the SANParks Honorary Rangers, a Johannesburg-based volunteering organisation that brings together interested adults and learners from various schools for educational activities focused on nature and science, were hosted at HartRAO.

A diverse group of learners, facilitators and parents attended the visit, all eager to explore the wonders of astronomy. This initiative was a collaboration between SARAO and the West Rand Astronomy Club (WRAC), who generously provided their telescopes and insights for an engaging star gazing session, enriching the experience for all participants.

Following the multiple school group visits to HartRAO during October, the Science Engagement interns have built adequate confidence to lead some of the visits, and this one was led by Livhuwani Mafhala, with the support of partners from the West Rand Astronomy Club (WRAC).

During the visit, the learners participated in a guided tour of the HartRAO facility, where they gained insights into the various instruments used in radio astronomy and geodesy. This first-hand experience of the facility allowed them to appreciate the practical applications of these scientific tools.

Outside the Visitor’s Centre, the students engaged in interactive activities that deepened their understanding of the significance of the shape of the parabolic dish, which they saw used for the radio dishes and also for the demonstrative whisper (sound) dishes on site. The aim of the exercise is to explore the similar dish shape used but also distinguishing between sound waves and radio waves and ensure there is no confusion between the concepts. Additionally, they were introduced to the analemmatic sundial, enhancing their knowledge of solar time and other concepts in astronomy.

This visit not only fostered a greater interest in science and technology among the learners but also provided them with valuable educational experiences that they can carry into their future studies.

We look forward to building on this partnership with SANParks Honorary Rangers and the West Rand Astronomy Club to continue offering enriching educational opportunities to students.

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