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Private Tour of Swinburne University’s Faculty of Astronomy and Super-Computing
Open Door series
Hosted by:
Weston Lewis
October 31, 2023 @ 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
FreeThis visit is a rare opportunity to peek behind the curtain to see the latest science and research in astronomy and the space industry at Swinburne.
Swinburne University holds a preeminent place in space research as the only University with remote access to the KECK Observatory in Hawaii, the largest in the world.
Our tour of the facility will include a cutting-edge 3D film on astronomy and the space industry; the KECK Observatory remote access facility; visiting the latest generation supercomputer and as well as previous generations of space computing that support observations and industry applications. You’ll also hear about efforts to build the latest instruments to detect greenhouse gas emissions and detect bushfires, experiments to mine the moon for water and minerals, efforts to track what is happening in space and supporting next-gen scientists through working with year 11 students on microgravity and radiation science projects.
Our tour guide Dr Rebecca Allen is the Co-Director of the Space Technology and Industry Institute at Swinburne University of Technology. She completed her PhD in Astrophysics at Swinburne where she used information from powerful telescopes like the Hubble Space Telescope to study the evolution and growth of galaxies going back to when the Universe was barely a billion years old. Now, Dr Allen applies her scientific expertise to help support Australia’s growing space industry. To this end, she utilises cutting-edge research in areas such as microgravity experimentation and Earth observation to build climate change resilient communities and support health innovation. When she’s not studying space or using it for Earth, she’s inspiring and empowering future space leaders by communicating the wonders of the Universe and creating immersive, hands-on learning experiences.
Please note:
* Members may only bring a maximum of one guest to this event.
* The event is suitable for students from year 10 and above.
* Optional casual dinner at own expense afterwards at nearby Auburn Hotel.
* Meeting point – Swinburne Campus Burwood Road Hawthorn. Specific location provided closer to event date.
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