The Solar Neighbourhood - A guide to the nearest stars

Guest Speaker

Thursday, 15th February 2024 (19:45 - 22:00)

Venue: Hybrid

We have Dr. Colin Steele, Reader at University of Manchester.

The area of the galaxy where the Sun currently resides can be considered a fairly typical area of the galaxy. This talk will consider the stars within 5 parsecs of the Sun, concentrating on those with particular characteristics e.g. the Alpha Centauri and Sirius systems, Barnard's star and the home of Mr Spock from Star Trek. The talk is not so

much of a list as an opportunity to mention many of the characteristics of stars. Woven into the talk are references to measuring distances to stars and the appearance of the Sun
and other stars from the stars concerned. The talk will conclude with thoughts on the Sun's status in the neighbourhood and the Galaxy.
 

Colin will be visiting us in person and talking from the Observatory.

Speaker: Dr. Colin Steele

Colin Steele, is an amateur astronomer with professional experience who enjoys giving talks on a wide variety of astronomical topics. Inspired by early events including Apollo Moon landings. Studied Mathematics and Astronomy and Astrophysics, St Andrews University, 1982-1986. PhD in Applied Mathematics (Dynamics of Solar Prominences), 1986-1990. Teaching of Mathematics to students in many parts of University of Manchester, since 1993. Joined Dundee AS, 1978. BAA 1985, Many other societies. Member of IAU.

Learn more about Dr. Colin Steele