Suggested itineraries

Suggested Itinerary 1: Little Astronomers (Toddlers & Young Children)

4pm	Collect your wristband from the Registration Tent and pick up any pre-booked tickets for one of our popular science magic shows. While you're there, don't forget to grab a glow wristband ready for when the sun goes down.
4.15pm	Start your adventure on Level 1 of 1 Central Courtyard, where you'll find plenty of hands-on activities including the Junior Science Academy, Scientist Spotlight and more. If little tummies are rumbling, this is also a great time to visit the food court.
4.45pm	Continue exploring the activities on Level 1 or make your way to one of our spectacular science magic shows. Both the Physics Magic Show in Macquarie Theatre and the Chemistry Magic Show in Mason Theatre begin at 5pm and are guaranteed to amaze audiences of all ages. Be sure to pre-book your ticket to avoid disappointment.
6pm	After the show, head to the Exhibition Hall to see some amazing LEGO creations inspired by space and astronomy, along with plenty of other fun exhibits to explore.
6.30pm	Next, visit the Jim Piper Centre to see our marble run machine and the impressive Foucault's Pendulum. From rolling marbles to swinging pendulums, there's plenty to keep curious minds entertained.
7pm	As darkness falls, wander through Central Courtyard and try your hand at Laser Graffiti. Keep an eye out for the impressive Laser Guide Star lighting up the night sky above you.
7.30pm	Take a journey through space along our Solar System Walk on Gymnasium Road before visiting the Planetariums for a spectacular trip through the galaxy.
	Then head home for bed, ready to dream about planets, stars and galaxies far, far away.

Suggested Itinerary 2: Space Explorer (Primary School Age 5–12 Years)

4pm	Welcome, Space Explorer! Begin your mission by checking in at the Registration Tent in Central Courtyard. Collect your wristband, any pre-booked Magic Show tickets and a glow wristband for when darkness falls.
4.15pm	Begin your mission on Level 1 of 1 Central Courtyard. Take on the challenge of Robotics and meet real scientists at Scientist Spotlight. Whether you're curious about dinosaurs, black holes or life on other planets, now is your chance to ask!
5.15pm	Time to refuel! Grab a bite to eat in Central Courtyard before continuing your space adventure.
6pm	Choose your next mission. Join our brand-new Big Cosmic Q&A; at 6.15pm and hear real scientists tackle some of the biggest questions in the Universe, including questions submitted by explorers just like you. Don't forget to send in your question before the event! Prefer explosive experiments and science surprises? The Physics Magic Show and Chemistry Magic Show also begin at 6.15pm and are sure to amaze audiences of all ages. Pre-booking is recommended for all sessions.
7pm	Travel to 11 Wally's Walk and put your skills to the test in the Laser Challenge. Can you make it through without touching a beam?
7.30pm	Continue your journey through the Solar System along our Solar System Walk before visiting the Planetariums for a breathtaking tour of planets, stars and galaxies.
8.30pm	End your mission at the Telescope Park, where you can gaze into the night sky and explore distant worlds. Where will your next space adventure take you?
	Then head home for bed, dreaming of rockets, planets and journeys to the stars.

Suggested Itinerary 3: Future Astronomer (High School Years 9–12)

4pm	Arrive at Astronomy Open Night and check in at the Registration Tent in Central Courtyard. Collect your wristband and any pre-booked Magic Show tickets before beginning your evening of exploration.
4.15pm	Start with one of our Short Talks, including a session designed especially for high school students at 4.30 pm in Theatre 4. Interested in seeing real astronomy in action? Alternatively, head up to the Observatory early to explore before the evening crowds arrive.
5.45pm	Take some time to explore the Exhibition Hall, where you can connect with astronomy organisations, and see what's happening in the wider space community. Nearby, you can also visit the Astrophotography Competition Exhibition or drop into the Space Film Festival in Theatre 100.
6pm	Join our brand-new Big Cosmic Q&A at 6.15pm in 17 Wally's Walk. Hear scientists tackle some of the biggest questions in astronomy—from black holes and dark matter to the possibility of life beyond Earth. Better still, submit your own question and see if it makes it onto the stage.
7.15pm	It's your choice from here. Catch one of our Short Talks or the Keynote Lecture at 7.30pm, or head to Level 1 of 1 Central Courtyard to test your skills in the Cosmic Arcade and explore space in a whole new way through our Virtual Reality Space Experience.
8.30pm	End your night at the Planetariums, the Telescope Park, and the Observatory. Travel across the Universe in the Planetarium before turning your eyes to the real night sky through our telescopes. If you haven't already explored the Observatory, now is the perfect opportunity before the event closes at 10pm.
	Head home inspired by the mysteries of the cosmos and the discoveries still waiting to be made.

Suggested Itinerary 4: Astronomy Enthusiast

4pm	Begin your evening by collecting your wristband from the Registration Tent in Central Courtyard. Then head straight to the Exhibition Hall to meet visiting astronomy societies, community groups and organisations. Whether you're a seasoned observer or just beginning your astronomy journey, it's a great opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts and discover what's happening in the local astronomy community.
4.15pm	Settle in for the start of our Short Talk Program, with presentations beginning from 4.30pm across multiple theatres. Explore topics ranging from the sounds of the Universe and the search for alien civilisations to cutting-edge discoveries in astronomy and astrophysics. There is something to intrigue every curious mind.
5.30pm	Take some time to explore the Astrophotography Competition Exhibition, showcasing spectacular images captured by talented photographers from our community. Then drop into Theatre 100 to enjoy a selection of short space films presented by the Archival Futures Collective.
6.15pm	Visit the Jim Piper Centre to experience To Absent Friends, the largest hologram of its kind, before grabbing a bite to eat in Central Courtyard ahead of an evening of talks and stargazing.
7.15pm	Make your way to Macquarie Theatre for this year's Keynote Lecture at 7.30pm featuring Professor Fred Watson. One of Australia's best-known astronomers and a long-time supporter of the Macquarie University Astronomical Observatory, Fred has inspired generations of stargazers through his books, broadcasts and public talks. This special presentation is sure to be one of the highlights of Astronomy Open Night and is not to be missed.
8.30pm	End your evening at the Planetarium, Telescope Park and the Observatory. Travel through the cosmos in the Planetarium before stepping outside to observe the real night sky through our telescopes. If you've not yet visited the Observatory, be sure to make your way up the hill before the final entry at 9.30pm.
	Head home inspired by the beauty, scale and mystery of the Universe—and perhaps already planning your next observing session.

Wallumattagal campus

Balaclava Road
Macquarie University NSW 2109

City campus

Angel Place
Level 24, 123 Pitt Street
Sydney NSW 2000

Event Contact

astronomyopennight@mq.edu.au

Acknowledgement of Country

Macquarie University is located on the land of the Wallumattagal clan of the Dharug people. We pay respects to the Elders and knowledge holders who have, and continue to share their wisdom and knowledges, nurturing and sustaining our environments, cultures and education.