Humans in the Eternal Cycle of Stars: a lunar eclipse experience

Full moon in the night sky

A fascination with the stars and other celestial bodies has been common across all civilisations throughout human history. Astronomical events have been variously interpreted as symbols of disruption, change, renewal, and hope. Turn your face skyward on Friday, 19 November to observe a partial lunar eclipse – weather pending!

Enhance your eclipse experience with viewpoints from expert historians and scientific practitioners at a live Q&A on the night. Learn more about the role of astronomy in Australian Indigenous, European and Arabic cultures and their different approaches to practices, instruments, and star knowledge.

Register for the live Q&A here

Presenters

Jessie Ferrari is an Indigenous person of the Yorta Yorta people, pursuing Ecology at the University of Melbourne. They are currently in the works of writing a paper about Kulin Nation star, plant and animal knowledges and how these knowledge systems overlap, especially in regards to seasonal patterns.

Associate Professor Duane Hamacher is Associate Professor of Cultural Astronomy in the School of Physics at the University of Melbourne. He researches astronomy in a cultural, social and historical context, learning about the scientific layers of traditional star knowledge, and looking at ways to safeguard this collective heritage for the benefit of all.

Dr Gerhard Wiesenfeldt is Lecturer of History of Science in the School of Historical and Philosophical Studies at the University of Melbourne. He researches the relationship between academic and practical knowledge in the physical and mathematical sciences – including astronomy – in early modern Europe.

Being Human 2021
This event is being held in collaboration with the 2021 Being Human Festival. Founded in the UK as the only national festival of the humanities, Being Human is now a global celebration dedicated to demonstrating the breadth, diversity and vitality of the humanities.

Explore the full Faculty of Arts international hub program here