PEOPLE living with a disability will now have the opportunity to delve deep into the cosmos due to new cutting-edge technology to be unveiled to the public on Saturday, March 26.
A new telescope, developed by the Astronomical Society of Victoria (ASV), will allow people living with a disability, especially those living in a wheelchair, to look into the telescope’s eyepiece at a low level that is comfortable for the observer.
“Now I know that by using this telescope, I don’t have to be in pain for a week afterwards, and I won’t be bedridden for the next few days just for wanting to look at a star,” said Jesse Stout, who suffered a severe spinal injury after a workplace injury and contacted ASV from hospital to find a suitable telescope for his condition.
The telescope is part of the ASV’s ‘Pathways to the Planets’ project, which aims to allow all people the opportunity to learn about and observe the wonders of the universe. The project will ensure ASV’s ‘Dark Sky Site’, located near Heathcote, has safe access to the entire site for people living with a disability or for people living in a wheelchair, via recently laid pathways and the new telescope.
“We’re also planning on constructing a remote-controlled astrophotography observatory,” said ASV president Chris Rudge. “This will provide access to people who are unable to attend the Dark Sky Site in person or unable to observe through an eyepiece at all.”
Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas said she was delighted to see the project come to life.
“This project is helping to open up the skies and astronomy for people of all abilities and making Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) more accessible,” she said.
All Abilities Astronomy project will be unveiled at ASV’s Messier Party on Saturday, March 26. To book, visit asv.org.au or to book the telescope, contact ASV’s vice president, Mark Iscaro: vicepresident@asv.org.au
Stargazing has taken lift off since the Shepparton Astronomy Group (SAG) was approved to join ASV. Representatives will attend ASV’s Messier Party, that is the perfect opportunity for the public to see the best of the stars.
To connect with local astronomers, please contact Derek Poulton on 0418 559 263.
