The University of Sydney “Star Party”

Great Hall, The Quadrangle and front lawns

From 6:00pm engage with our up and coming astrophysicists as you observe the night sky and get your hands on our physics and astronomy activities. View “Stargazing Live” on our large screen as you rug up and enjoy dinner with a selection of food trucks on the Quadrangle Lawns.

At 8:00pm, it’s time to use your binoculars and telescopes or purchase one on-site as we join people all around Australia to attempt to break the Guinness World Record for “Most people stargazing - multiple venues”.

Join us as we share our excitement for the universe, inspire you to reach new frontiers as we celebrate the night sky and count you in as a Guinness World Record holder!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

What is the World Record we are attempting to set? We are trying to set a new Guinness World Record for Most People Stargazing Across Multiple Venues. For this record, the participants will stargaze at the Moon through a telescope or binoculars for a 10-minute period simultaneously across multiple sites throughout Australia. The current World Record, set in 2015 by the Australian National University, stands at 7,960 people across 37 locations. We are aiming to set a record so large that it will be nearly impossible to break again.

What are the specs of the Telescopes available for purchase? The telescope will be 30mm in diameter, and includes an adjustable focus and even a small tripod! Telescopes will be handed out on the night and of course they are yours to keep. Please note: these telescopes are being sold on a cost recovery bases and no profit is made by the ABC on the sale of telescopes.

Can I collect my purchased telescope in advance? No, purchased telescopes will only be available to collect on the night of the event at the venue when you register.

Can I bring my own telescope or binoculars? Yes, you are welcome and encouraged to bring your own - please ensure you register for a 'Single World Record Participant - BYO Telescope/Binoculars' Ticket. If your telescope is very large please contact us on abcengagement@abc.net.au to discuss logistics. Please note: any personal equipment brought to the event is at your own risk.

Can we share a telescope or pair of binculars? No, to participate in the World Record each person will need their own individual telescope/binoculars. Sharing these items will result in disqualifiation from the attempt.

What happens if it is cloudy / raining? The event will still take place if there is cloudy / rainy weather - we only require a 10 minute viewing window on the Moon for the record attempt, so we will make every effort to participate. Unfortunately if the weather does not clear for the 10 minute viewing window, the venue will be disqualified and the number of participants won't count towards the World Record. Please note: in the case of a severe weather event, please check the @WorldRecordStargazing Facebook page and your email for event updates.

Is there an age limit to participate in the event? While there is no minimum / maximum age for participants, please bear in mind that World Record participants must be able to look through a telescope/binoculars for a 10 minute period while remaining in a specific area. Minors should be accompanied by a parent/guardian and be supervised at all times.

What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event? Public transport is encouraged for this event.

What can I bring into the event? Please bring your own telescope/binoculars, if you have purchased a BYO Telescope/Binoculars ticket. We encourage attendees to bring a picnic blanket, a jacket/warmer clothes as it may be cold, and an umbrella/poncho in the event of wet weather. Please note: this is an alcohol and drug-free event.

What's the refund policy? No refunds will be issued as the event is free. If you are unable to make the event or if the event is cancelled due to extreme weather, your purchased telescopes will be made available for collection at a later date.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? Please bring your printed ticket or have the ticket available on your mobile device – this will speed up our registration process on the night.

Is my ticket transferrable? Yes, you can give your ticket to someone else if you can no longer attend, however we encourage you to keep your ticket secure as it will be used to collect your telescope (if purchased).

How can I contact the organiser with any questions? Please contact us on abcengagement@abc.net.au if you have any questions.