MONMOUTH MP David Davies turned his hand to stargazing as he joined Usk Astronomical Society at the launch of its new observatory.
The Alfred Russel Wallace Observatory, believed to be the first publicly accessible astronomical observatory in Monmouthshire, was unveiled in the grounds of Usk Community Education Centre on Thursday, 12th May 2011. Over 120 guests were present, including C Cllr Brian Hood, Chairman of Monmouthshire County Council, and Cllr Martyn Evans, Mayor of Usk.
Dr Paul Roach, Senior Lecturer in Astronomy at the University of Glamorgan, officially opened the observatory, while Professor Mike Edmunds, Emeritus Professor of Astrophysics at Cardiff University, delivered a keynote speech on the important relationship between amateur and professional astronomers. Telescopes were also set up to enable guests to view the moon, while an exhibition comprising models, globes, books and hi-tech astronomical images was staged in a marquee.
Named after Alfred Russel Wallace, the polymath and co-discover of evolution by natural selection with Charles Darwin, the observatory was funded by a grant provided through Monmouthshire County Council. It was ordered from Canada and arrived as a construction pack, which was then assembled on a gravel and decking platform.
David Thomas, Usk Astronomical Society President, said: “Wallace, who was born in nearby Llanbadoc, made very many other contributions to science for which he is also renowned and it is in recognition of his contribution to astronomy and astrobiology that Usk Astronomical Society has dedicated the observatory to his memory.”
As well as continuing with its successful outreach programme, where a planetarium is taken to schools and adult organisations such as the WI to inspire them to pursue science, the society is now making plans for a radio telescope.
Mr Davies added: “I would like to congratulate Usk Astronomical Society for forming something of real value to the culture and education of the local community. The society is more than 35 years old and I’ve no doubt it will use the new observatory to go from strength to strength”.
For further information, visit www.uskastronomicalsociety.org.uk