The Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand (RASNZ) is promoting astronomy for NZ high school students who have a passion for this science. In 2019, the society is holding its annual conference in New Plymouth from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 May. The conference registration is around $200, however the society is waiving this fee for 10 winning students. In addition, the cost of the Saturday night banquet, travel costs to/from the conference and accommodation (usually backpacker) for the Friday and Saturday nights are paid for by a generous benefactor.
Astronomers from throughout NZ and overseas will participate at the conference. There is a good collaborative mix of professionals and amateurs who will present talks on their exciting fields of interest and discovery. In addition, SWAPA students will have the opportunity to meet professional astronomers to discuss university study possibilities. To find out more about the conference, visit the society’s website at www.rasnz.org.nz .
To be considered, students should email a short statement of no more than 300 words explaining why they would like to attend the conference and why they are interested in astronomy.
This statement should be sent to RASNZ Immediate-Past President, John Drummond; email:kiwiastronomer@gmail.com by 5pm, Friday 15 March. Include your name, gender, age, school, year of study at school in 2019, city, email address, telephone contact and science teacher’s name/phone/email. Alternatively, a printed version can be posted to John Drummond, Box 113, Patutahi 4045.
The winners of the competition will be selected for their clear enthusiasm of astronomy, seniority, and good English in their submitted statement.
This SWAPA competition is most applicable to students in Y11–13, however excellent students in Y10 or below should not be deterred from applying. Results will be sent out in early April 2019.
Further information
Contact: John Drummond
(06) 862 7557