Observatory news

A quadruple star system discovered in 2017 and recently observed at the University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory could represent a new channel by which thermonuclear supernova explosions can occur in the Universe, according to results published in Nature Astronomy today (13 May NZ time) by an international team of astronomers.

University of Canterbury astronomers at UC Mt John Observatory have co-authored a new Nature paper sharing the results of an international observing campaign conducted over 130 days.

An $11m fully immersive dark sky experience is now open to the public in Takapō (Tekapo). Dark Sky Project, formerly Earth & Sky, has opened the doors to its new 1140sqm building on the Takapō lakefront. The centre will be the departure point for the astro-tourism business’s outdoor, evening stargazing experiences at the University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory.

In a piece on The Conversation UC senior lecturer in Astronomy Michele Bannister and University of Otago Associate Professor James Scott explain the unusual characteristics of the meteor that was seen in New Zealand last week.

Three University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha postdoctoral researchers have been awarded two-year Rutherford Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowships worth $170,000 each.