FIVE years ago, the Cassini spacecraft entered orbit around Saturn after an eight-year voyage to the planet. During its initial four-year tour it sent back a stream of awe-inspiring images of Saturn and its numerous moons.
To mark this space success story, the Royal Observatory in Greenwich is presenting a varied programme of Saturn-themed events, including a new planetarium show and an exhibition of some of the pictures sent back to Earth by the spacecraft.
These include striking images of hurricane-force storms in Saturn’s turbulent atmosphere, the delicate tracery of the ring system and the planet-sized moon Titan, where liquid methane rains from orange clouds.
The observatory is also hosting a series of lectures by scientists involved in the mission. Topics to be covered in the talks include how Cassini is guided on its complex path around Saturn, the surreal landscapes of Titan and a first-hand account of working on a major space mission.
A weekend of events and activities for the whole family is being held this weekend, featuring appearances by the Cassini scientists.
The observatory’s public astronomer, Dr Marek Kukula, said: “The theme for the International Year of Astronomy is ‘The universe, yours to discover’. “We want to give everyone the opportunity to do just that, both by coming to look at the stars for themselves and by meeting some of the pioneering scientists who are continuing to expand our understanding of the universe and our place within it.”
The Royal Observatory, Greenwich. Talks until June 28, exhibition until August 30. Call 020 8312 6608 or visit nmm.ac.uk/iya2009
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