We invite you to our February meeting with guest speaker Nikalaos Shiamtanis from University of Southampton. What if exploding stars could tell us the story of the universe, its past, its expansion, and even its ultimate fate? Join us for an engaging talk on Cosmology with Type Ia Supernovae, where cutting-edge astronomy meets the biggest questions in science. Type Ia supernovae are more than spectacular cosmic fireworks. They are powerful tools that allow astronomers to measure vast cosmic distances and uncover the mysterious acceleration of the universe’s expansion, work that led to the discovery of dark energy and a Nobel Prize in Physics. In this talk, we’ll explore how these stellar explosions work, why they are so valuable to cosmology, and what recent discoveries are revealing about the nature of the universe. Whether you’re a student, a science enthusiast, or simply curious about the cosmos, this talk is designed to be accessible, inspiring, and thought-provoking. No advanced background is required, just a sense of wonder. Come and discover how the light from distant, dying stars is helping us understand everything.

After the break with the obligatory doughnuts, we will then have the usual short talks on a variety of topics with further entries in the 5-in-5 short presentation competition if we have enough entries.

If you're suitably intrigued, as with our monthly Speaker meetings, the meeting will start at 7.30pm and will be held at The Fair Close Centre, Newtown Road, Newbury: RG14 7BH. (click here for a map and further details of the session's meetings).

The annual Stargazing at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory event will next be held on Friday 23 January 2026. 

There will be plenty to do for the whole family, whatever the weather. There’ll be meteorites, rocket building, comet making, a series of fascinating talks, robots and of course stargazing. There will also be a telescope clinic run by Newbury Astronomy Society in partnership with RAL, so please do bring yours along if you need help setting it up. They’ll also have some experts on hand to explain how we’re using our particle accelerators, Diamond Light Source, the Central Laser Facility and the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source, to learn more about space. If you want to volunteer for this event, please send your details to outreach@newburyastro.org.uk. This must include your name, e-mail address and car number as RAL is a secure site. 

We must have this information before the close of play on Monday, 19th January 2026. We are meeting at 16:30 at the main RAL gate on Friday, 23 January. If you can’t make that time, access will still be possible until 17:15.

European AstroFest, the UK’s premier astronomy conference and exhibition, is just around the corner get ready for an out of this world experience! Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer, a budding astronomer, or simply curious about the wonders of the Universe, this is the place to be. Hear from top professional and amateur astronomers from around the world. With over 16 fascinating talks covering space science, astrophysics, observing techniques, and more, there’s something to captivate every interest. Explore beautifully curated displays from leading astronomy brands and organisations telescopes, imaging gear, books, accessories, and expert societies. Perfect for both hobbyists and serious observers.

Meet astronomy clubs, educators, researchers, and like‑minded explorers from across Europe. Whether you want to join a society, learn new observing tips, or simply geek out about the cosmos, this event brings the astronomy community together.

6 & 7 February 2026

Kensington Conference and Events Centre, London

Visit our newly launched tutorial section for Seestar user support. Follow the link to access the full collection. Seestar Tutorials 

As announced at the last Main Meeting and our Christmas Dinner, we are sad to say that Alan Wyles, our Membership Secretary for many years, is stepping back from this role. Alan has been the welcoming face of the NAS for many newcomers, as well as a contributing Committee Member. He will still be joining us at most Main Meetings, I understand, while also now being able to spend more time involved with his first academic “love”, of physics. 

Kind wishes to Alan and Mary, and we hope to see you soon.

As many members were aware, the Observatory Science Centre at Herstmonceux in Sussex (once the home of the Royal Greenwich Observatory, when it fled the lights and smoke of London for the relative darkness of the Sussex countryside) stood under threat of closure. The landlords, Bader College (the UK wing of Canada's Queen’s University, who also own Herstmonceux Castle), had decided not to renew the Science Centre’s lease, so come the end of the 2026 season the Science Centre looked like it would be homeless.

In what appears to be a piece of great news, a deal appears to have been reached which guarantees the future of the Observatory Science Centre for a further ten years. A press release states that 'together Bader College and Science Projects aim to unlock The Observatory Science Centre’s full potential to inspire future generations through science, history, and discovery.' Abbie Rumbold, Chief Executive of Science Projects, said 'We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to The Observatory Science Centre for many years to come and are so excited about the opportunity to develop fantastic new visitor experiences. Our incredible team is ready to make the next decade and The OSC’s fourth, our most fun yet '

Time for a NAS trip to the OSC, maybe?