Gaze at the stars through clear skies

STARGAZERS in Heathcote had a close-up view of stars, planets, meteors and satellites last week at the skate park thanks to Norm Matyson.

Mr Matyson is a member of the Astronomical Society of Victoria and enjoys sharing his passion for astronomy with young and old.

“Although the weather was cold, we had some good clear skies,” said Mr Matyson.

“On a beautiful night in Heathcote it is wonderful to enjoy the night sky and share it with others.

“It was really good to have so many people come along.”

Mr Matyson, with his wife Mel Matyson, set up viewing equipment at sundown and local children and adults watched as the stars appeared.

Five-year-old Evie was one of the first to look through a telescope.

“I loved seeing the stars,” she said, “especially the red star that’s made of carbon.”

Sisters Dot (five) and Scarlett (seven) also enjoyed viewing the stars and have downloaded the Solar System Scope app on their tablet.

“It’s a great night to go stargazing,” said Scarlett, “and my favourite is the diamond thingy.”

Mr Matyson set up a Seestar telescope which is on loan from the Astronomical Society.

“We are babysitting it at the moment and testing it out,” he said.

For anyone who missed last week’s viewings, the Matysons will be setting up again soon.

Check the Heathcote Town Crier on Facebook for information on future sessions.