VISIT TO SOUTH DOWNS PLANETARIUM AND SCIENCE CENTRE

On 3 March 2026, 45 members/partners visited the South Downs Planetarium and undertook a memorable journey through space without having to leave planet Earth! 

After a short briefing in the visitors' meeting room (accompanied by a welcoming cup of coffee/tea and biscuits), we entered the planetarium proper, and from the moment we stepped inside there was a palpable sense of anticipation. 

The main theatre, with its domed ceiling and comfortable aircraft seating, is both intimate and very impressive. Soon the lights were dimmed and the curved dome was transformed into a glittering sky with a multitude of stars appearing in astonishing clarity. We were introduced to many constellations and planets, and explored the rich variety of the universe that surrounds us, guided by outstanding speaker, Dr John Mason MBE. 

John spoke with great clarity, in an easy-to-understand manner (considering the complexity of the information he endeavoured to impart to us!), and his vast knowledge of, and obvious enthusiasm for, his subject matter shone through. 

Our visit to the South Downs Planetarium was not only entertaining, but in many of us it will have rekindled a sense of wonder about the universe in which our planet Earth resides.

Following our visit, we will certainly now look at the night sky with different eyes!