Public Understanding Of Science And Technology

The Liverpool Telescope is associated with a major programme of Public Understanding of Science and Technology. Image data from the telescope is used to enrich public talks given at both local and national level, whilst teachers and students throughout the UK are able to benefit from The Liverpool Telescope Schools Programme.

The Astrophysics Research Institute was successful in attracting European funds in support of a major outreach programme, and for the development of teaching materials to enable teachers to make full use of the Liverpool Telescope in the teaching of Science, Mathematics, Information Technology, Design and Technology, and Business Studies.

An educational website has been developed to facilitate communication between the Liverpool Telescope and the schools and colleges requesting observational data. Dedicated in-house image processing software also allows students to work with the image data they receive back and conduct real science in an understadable way.

In addition, undergraduate and graduate students have unrivalled access to this world-class research telescope, providing an invaluable resource in their studies.

For further details about our activities in schools why not visit the Schools Observatory site.

More recently, the ARI's commitment to PUST has resulted in the Spaceport astronomy-based visitor attraction that has recently (July 2005) opened next to the Seacombe Ferry Terminal on the south-bank of the River Mersey, less than a mile from the ARI. The Spaceport centre is a joint venture between Liverpool John Moores University and Mersey Ferries, and aims to demonstrate the excitement of science by combining knowledge of the Universe we live in with stunning graphics, interactive displays, simulator rides, virtual wormholes, 3D shows and much, much more to create an experience for young and old alike that is both fun and educational.

For more information, why not follow this link to the Spaceport website.