Dave's Space Shows

Above: The Space Room
Below: Te Awamutu Primary School

I do astronomy presentations at various locations, most often at Hamilton Observatory and my own "Space Room" (pictured right). I'm also available to visit schools and other venues around the Waikato.

Book the Space Room

The Space Room, located in Te Awamutu, can take group bookings of up to 30 people. Shows typically include photos and videos, plus a real-time space simulator that allows us to journey through the universe.

While you're here, I can also talk you though my collection of space memorabilia and other displays. I've got models and collectibles, items that have flown in space, meteorites, and a "Scale of the Universe" photographic display.

Cost: $5 per person, minimum $50 per show.

Book me for your venue/event

I'm happy to travel anywhere in the Waikato region to do presentations—please contact me for details and prices. I can't bring the space simulator with me (at least not at this stage—maybe in the future), but I can organize a projector and do a simplified version of the shows I do in the Space Room.

Choose a Show

When you book a show, you choose which topic you'd like to hear about—below are some recommended topics but feel free to ask for anything else.

• Astronomy Basics
• The History of Astronomy
• A Tour of the Solar System
• A Tour of the Universe
• Living in Space
• The History of Space Flight
• The Future of Space Flight

Telescope Viewing

I have a 12" dobsonian telescope that I occasionally use for public viewing and sidewalk astronomy. My location isn't perfect for stargazing but it offers reasonably clear views and we usually have no problem spotting a planet or two.

For really good telescope viewing, I recommend coming to a public night at Hamilton Observatory.

See me at the observatory

If you want to come to one of my talks at Hamilton Observatory, contact me to find out when I'm next rostered to speak. Although most of my work at the observatory is with school groups and private bookings, I do occasionally speak on public nights. These talks usually cover the basics of astronomy and the night sky. I also run the "society evenings" for members of the Hamilton Astronomical Society. See www.has.org.nz for directions and admission prices.

FAQ:

What dates and times are you available?
It's very flexible—I take group bookings any day of the week, daytime or evening. Just make sure you book well in advance.

How long does the show last?
This is also flexible. I find that about 1½ to 2 hours is enough for most audiences (especially younger children) but I can go longer if you like.

What age groups do you cater for?
I'm happy to talk to all ages but I recommend a minimum age of around 6 years. The group can be any mix of ages.

Do you have wheelchair access?
Please let me know in advance if you need wheelchair access.

Can you cover curriculum material for our school students?
I'm not a qualified teacher but I do have a lot of teaching experience. I can do basic curriculum work with enough advanced notice, but if you'd prefer a lecture by a qualified physics teacher I can organize one through the Hamilton Astronomical Society.