A* in the night sky

11:42am Tuesday 16th September 2008

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DR MAREK Kukula has been appointed by the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, to boost public interest in astronomy and the work of the museum.

Central to this challenge of educating people about astronomy are the courses on offer to those of all ages and abilities.

Whether you are a budding astronomer or just want to learn a bit more about the night sky, there is a range of courses to suit everyone.

In 1999, the museum started offering a GCSE in astronomy, an introduction to the subject, but at a level which is formally recognised as a qualification.

Very few schools in the country offer the course, which covers the basics of the solar system, stars and galaxies, but with such advanced facilities at the Royal Observatory, it made perfect sense to introduce it in Greenwich.

Dr Kukula, who specialises in the study of supermassive black holes and the evolution of galaxies, is delighted with this year's results from the GCSE course.

He says: "Of the 24 people on the course, all of them achieved grade B or above and an outstanding 91 per cent got an A or A*.

"The Observatory has excellent facilities and high-level tutors who are all astronomers themselves, so they are able to discuss topics beyond those which are on the syllabus.

"It is also part of my job to strengthen the links we have with other professional astronomers."

The astronomy GCSE, in combination with maths and physics A-levels and a relevant degree and PHD, provides a good foundation to those looking to pursue a career in the sector.

Marek, who has 15 years of science research experience, including work with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, explains: "The most common career path of an astronomer is to become a university lecturer, which allows you to teach and research at the same time."

There are still a few spaces left on the GCSE course, which starts in September and runs until May 2009. Sessions are every Tuesday from 6.30pm until 9pm.

As well as the GCSE, the museum offers more informal courses, public talks and observing sessions.