Features

Chasing The Stars

Unlock the mysteries of the universe, learn about space and brush up on your astronomy skills when BBC Norfolk's Chasing The Stars series culminates with a free space event at The Forum, Norwich.

Starchaser rocket

On Thursday, 17 February, 2007 you can see Skybolt - a 10m tall Starchaser's rocket. The first privately designed British space rocket, it was built to take scientific payloads into space.

Visitors to the event can also take part in the free half-an-hour sessions with Inspire's inside planetarium, and 50 minute presentations from Starchaser.

Starchaser rocket launching

The event also features interactive demonstrations from Norfolk-based astronomy groups, displays of lunar and meteorite samples and the Costessey Specialist Science Department will also be involved throughout the day as your guides to the universe.

Eric Clark from the CSV Norfolk Action Desk is delighted about giving Norfolk the chance to find out more about space science.

"Many of us would never have the opportunity to see a real rocket or to touch samples of material collected from NASA manned space missions," he said.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for people to be inspired and learn more about the universe we live in," he added.

Taking part

You can just turn up to the Chasing The Stars event at The Forum in February, however there will be limited spaces for the planetarium and Starchaser presentation sessions.

To reserve your place call the CSV Norfolk Action Desk on 01603 631631.

The radio series

Mark Thompson

The Chasing The Stars event also marks the culmination of a six-week radio series exploring space and astronomy on BBC Radio Norfolk's morning programme.

Produced by Mark Thompson from the Norwich Astronomical Society, the series provided a beginners' guide to star-gazing and featured an information pack which you can download here:

Gallery: Norfolk from space > Listen: Chasing The Stars - part 1 > Listen: Chasing The Stars - part 2 > Listen: Chasing The Stars - part 3 > Listen: Chasing The Stars - part 4 > Listen: Chasing The Stars - part 5 > Listen: Chasing The Stars - part 6 > Audio and Video links on this page require Realplayer Download: Chasing The Stars factsheet (.pdf) >

_{The Chasing The Stars series is created in partnership with Breckland Astronomical}
^{Society, North Norfolk Astronomical Society and the Norwich Astronomical Society.}
_{The project is also supported by Starchaser PLC, the Inspire Hands}
^{On Science Centre and PPARC}