Astrofest 2024 lands in Perth on 9th November.
Join us and thousands of stargazers at Curtin Stadium this November for the biggest space party in Perth.
Astrofest is the annual night where you can look through dozens of telescopes, and check out stunning stellar sights including the Moon and planets, star clusters, and even Alpha Centauri. This is more than stargazing; it’s the largest astronomy festival in the country, and our own cosmic carnival.
Keep reading and we’ll take you through our must-see activities for an unforgettable Astrofest.
Telescopes on the oval
A highlight of every Astrofest, you’ve got telescopes galore on Curtin Stadium’s Edinburgh Oval.
Imagine a close-up view of the Moon, and catching sight of planets like Saturn and Venus, distant galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters including the Pleiades. Plus check out radio telescopes working to discover the hidden Universe.
Smart telescopes: new for 2024
Smart telescopes are new on Astrofest’s oval this year and they’ve really got tongues wagging. These scopes are the hottest new gadgets on the market, and without any eyepieces they’re focused on astrophotography, rather than stargazing. Come check out live demonstrations.
While you’re there, chat to Stargazers Club WA about all things astronomy for beginners. They’re your friendly neighbourhood astronomers, ready to answer all your burning questions about the universe.
Award Winning Astrophotography
Next, dive into Astrofest’s Astrophotography competition.
These aren’t your average holiday snapshots. Think mind-blowing images from WA’s most talented photographers that capture the beauty of the cosmos, featuring everything from the International Space Station to distant swirling galaxies. It’s a cosmic art gallery you won’t want to miss.
Head over to the main stadium and check out the amazing photos. You won’t be disappointed!
If you’re more of a hands-on learner, head over to the Scitech Science Show.
Stick around for mind-blowing science shows from Scitech’s science communicators and some awesome guest speakers dropping serious space knowledge. And if you like bringing a little bit of space home with you, check out their pop-up Discovery Shop for some cool science swag.
Don’t forget serious science and expert live talks at Astrofest 2024.
These optical and radio astronomy experts spend their days unraveling the very mysteries of the galaxy. Get ready to hear about subjects like black holes, pulsars, alien planets, strange space signals, and the latest discoveries from the edge of the universe.
Plus, hear from the people who are working on building the world’s largest radio observatory, right here in WA: the international SKA project.
Are you ready to join us on a journey to the stars?
Scitech’s giant inflatable Space Domes are back for Astrofest 2024, and they’re taking brave adventurers on a journey through the universe. It’s like your own personal space adventure, right here in Perth.
Come explore the night sky and the solar system, this immersive experience will transport you to the farthest reaches of the universe, from the fiery surface of the Sun to the icy depths of Pluto, and you’ll even learn about how humans have been trying to figure out the mysteries of space.
Spaces are limited, so arrive early to secure your ticket.
A visit to Astrofest isn’t complete without the opportunity to meet your idols!
Some unforgettable fan favourites from science fiction film and television franchises, including Star Wars and Star Trek characters, will be mingling with event attendees and posing for photographs on the night. Make sure you say hi!
Astrofest 2024 is a free community event on Saturday 9 November, from 5:30pm to 9:30pm.
Optional pre-registration for Astrofest here.
Jay Chesters is a freelance journalist, feature writer, and award-winning author. With a particular passion for stargazing and astronomy, Jay enjoys any opportunity to share stories or pass on what they know.
Jay Chesters
Author
Ready to begin an astronomical adventure?
Meet Stargazers Club WA on the oval at Astrofest 2024.
