The historic Linden Observatory will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing on Saturday, July 13 from 5.30-8pm.
Blue Mountains residents are invited to gather under the winter night sky for a community singalong to songs celebrating the night sky. Established in the 1940s by renowned amateur telescope maker Ken Beames, the observatory is a dark sky haven for amateur astronomers seeking refuge from the city lights.
Titled Fly Me to the Moon, the evening begins with the theme from Star Wars performed by the Blue Mountains Bag Pipe Band. Sing along to the Inspire Choir led by Clare Richards, and accompanied by Jane Andino, followed by performances from musicians Alex Whichello and Brendan Smyly. Songs include Fly Me to the Moon, Rocket Man, Space Oddity, Across the Universe and Catch a Falling Star. Video and projection by Jasmine Ryan, Deirdre O'Connell and David Ryan will accompany the music.
There will be telescopes to view the moon, tours of the observatory and projections of NASA and space images on the dome. The evening will also feature a fundraising sausage sizzle and people are welcome to bring a picnic.
Entry is $10 for adults. Children and residents of Linden have free entry. Bookings are essential at Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fly-me-to-the-moon-tickets-62405236743. For more details visit the Facebook page.
Fly Me to the Moon is a community event sponsored by The Joan theatre in Penrith, The SLAB art space, and the Linden Observatory.
There is no parking on site. People requiring disability parking should contact the organiser miriam@southernphone.com.au.