How to observe and record features of the solar disc in white light and hydrogen-alpha.

Variable stars are stars whose brightness changes over time, either because the star itself is changing or because something, such as a companion star, temporarily blocks part of its light. These changes may follow a regular cycle, vary only slightly, or involve dramatic brightening and fading over weeks, months, or years.

Lyn Smith FRAS explains how to safely observe the Sun, our closest star, and record its activity.

Dirk Goës, SCS Committee member, presented this short talk on Monday 1st June 2026. It is based on his article of the same name, which can be read here. The GALAH Survey: Searching for the Universe's missing lithium.

Peter Osman, Elizabeth Budek, Elizabeth Cocking and Toner Stevenson at Waverley STEMFEST, 22 May 2026. Sunday 24 May, Sydney City Skywatchers volunteered at Waverley Public School's STEMFEST. Elizabeth Cocking was prime organiser and, with Peter Osman, Elizabeth Budek and myself, we had a very busy time as over 3,500 people, mostly primary school children with their parents, attended. We were in good company with the University of New South Wales 'Future Now' team and WIRES

Photograph: Mike Chapman (centre) at a celebration for the BAA NSW Branch of the BAA centennial celebration in 1995. Left: Madeleine and Nick Lomb, Right Janette Brenan and Joe Kelly. Photograph courtesy Nick Lomb. This on-line library is named in memory of Michael Benedict Chapman, past president of Sydney City Skywatchers. Sydney City Skywatchers was previously called the New South Wales Branch of the British Astronomical Association (BAA NSW). Our members have, for more th

The amount of lithium in the universe has changed since the Big Bang, can we measure the original amount?

A recap of the May 2026 meeting at Sydney Observatory.

This summary of our April astronomy meeting is a great recap of perfect for those who could not attend.

How to see 3 planets and the waning Moon