We have two main options for astronomy nights that are focused on the needs of Scouts, Cubs and Guides of all ages.
Larger Groups (Typically 40+)
For larger groups, MPAS can either visit you at your location/venue in the evening on any day of the week, or you can visit us in the evening at our registered Observatory in Mt Martha.
The evening starts with a presentation aimed at the needs of the Astronomy and Space Badge (or outer space badge), with ample opportunity for Q&A for the age group. It can also include hands-on inspection of a substantial real meteorite and even part of the famous Cranbourne meteorite. This is followed by after-dark night sky viewing with our telescopes and instruments. The evening typically goes for 1.5 hours, but is flexible to your needs.
The evenings proceed regardless of weather. If it is totally overcast then the indoors session extends to the length of the evening, and we may bring a telescope inside to show how it works.
Cost is $5.50 per child (with a minimum $300 for very small groups), being GST-invoiced after the night. No deposit is necessary, and you can cancel the evening with a week’s notice.
Typical group size is around 60-80 children, but we can manage less or, indeed, a lot more if you have the room.
Please note we require that all children are supervised closely at all times during the evening by their pack leader, parent or guardian. All our members at these nights have Working With Children checks done.
If we come to you, then a surcharge may apply if your venue is more than 30km travel distance from our observatory in Mt Martha.
Please enquire for your specifics. If you come to us at the Observatory, then group size is limited to 100.
Smaller Groups
For smaller groups of Cubs, Scouts or Guides (generally 40 or less), we host consolidated viewing nights at our Observatory in Mt Martha every 3 months or so on specific Fridays.
This may be more suitable for your needs at a flat $5 per child, with no minimum applying and no travel surcharge involved.
Please note, however, that your group will therefore be attending with other smaller packs from around the region, and that the evening may be cancelled if there are no bookings registered a few days beforehand.
We require that all children are supervised closely at all times during the evening by their pack leader, parent or guardian. All our members at these nights have Working With Children checks done.
The consolidated evenings need to be pre-paid on trybooking at https://www.trybooking.com/WWDL.
The booking site shows available dates for the year ahead. The Observatory group size is limited to 100 overall.
The evenings proceed regardless of weather. If it is totally overcast then the indoors session extends to the length of the evening, and we may bring a telescope inside to show how it works. The general public are not invited to these evenings.
For more information about these nights, please contact us!