Telescopic lenses will be out in force at the Kiama Blowhole and across Australia Wednesday night for a Guinness World Record attempt.
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The paparazzi of astronomy – amateur and professional star gazers – will be part of a simultaneous event aimed at smashing the record for Most People Stargazing Across Multiple Venues.
The event is run by the Australian National University (ANU) and the ABC’s Stargazing program, with a live broadcast with Professor Brian Cox commencing at 8pm.
Star-struck participants are to arrive at 7pm and will use their own binoculars or telescope to stargaze at the moon for a 10-minute period – happening simultaneously across multiple sites around the country.
The ANU set the last World Record in 2015 by coordinating 7,960 people across 37 locations.
“Getting Australians from all walks of life ... excited and curious about what’s happening in our solar system is really what [it’s] all about,” said Michael O’Neill, the show’s executive producer.
Australia is thought to be one of the best places to view the night sky, as our place in the southern hemisphere means we can see 100 times more stars than our northern neighbours.
If attending you will need to bring your own telescope or binoculars, one per person (the record won’t allow sharing).
The weather for Kiama on Wednesday is fine, though in the event of cloud or rain the show must go on.
Unfortunately if the weather does not clear for the viewing window, the venue will be disqualified and the number of participants won't count towards the World Record.
There is no minimum / maximum age for participants, though minors should be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
Transport/parking options for getting to and from the event? Parking at the Blowhole. Train available at Kiama Station 800m away.
It will also be a good idea to bring a jacket/warmer clothes as it may be cold, and an umbrella/poncho in the event of wet weather. While this is an alcohol and drug-free event.
To be part of the free event you will need to register online via www.eventbrite.com.au Local participants are to meet at the Kiama Lighthouse at 7pm.
The live broadcast will air live on the ABC, ABC iView, as well as their Facebook page and YouTube channel.