Cutting edge astrophysics: mapping the milky way with gaia and the faulkes telescope project NW504 / A17

This event is aimed at teachers of physics at GCSE and A level, and will enable you to gain a greater understanding of astronomy and space and inspire students in this fascinating topic.

Astronomy and space is an integral part of the science curriculum in GCSE and A level physics, yet many teachers feel that their understanding of some topics is a challenge. Many theories in space science are fast moving and it is a real challenge for all teachers to keep up with the cutting edge. Many students have a strong interest in space and space travel and this course will show how to use space and space travel as a context for showing the applications of concepts and ideas in AS and A level and GCSE physics specifications.

Gaia is described as a “game changing” mission, and over six years it will map the positions and motions of around 1 billion stars in the Milky Way galaxy. By repeatedly scanning the sky with its billion-pixel video camera, Gaia will allow astronomers to determine the origin and evolution of our galaxy whilst also testing gravity, mapping our inner solar system, and uncovering tens of thousands of previously unseen objects, including asteroids in our solar system, planets around nearby stars, and supernovae in other galaxies.

This course will show how schools can participate in aspects of the Gaia mission, in particular using robotic telescopes (Faulkes Telescope Project and National Schools’ Observatory facilities) to provide vital “follow up” observations of the new discoveries being made on a daily basis. This workshop will cover some of the most exciting aspects of the science and technology of Gaia, and provide access to resources and support materials to allow teachers to bring the mission into the classroom.