Museum reveals ‘wonders of the universe’

THE National Museum of the Royal Navy is running events across its sites this month to inspire people to get involved in stargazing, and learn more about celestial bodies and beyond.

Positioning of stars has long been vital to seafarers the world over, and this heritage is a key part of the history of the Royal Navy. 

In Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Virtual Pompey Stargazing 2022, runs from this Wednesday, January 26, until Saturday, January 29.

A collaboration with the University of Portsmouth and the Hampshire Astronomical Group, this virtual stargazing experience is free to anyone.

There will be talks for children and adults, and exciting Q&A sessions with both the Hampshire Astronomical Group, and the University’s Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation.

Viewers can also learn more about nautical navigation with a talk and Q&A from one of the museum’s curators, showcasing some of the items from its collection.

The family activity day on Saturday also gives special attention to younger viewers. Tickets are free but need to be booked on the University of Portsmouth website: https://www.port.ac.uk/news-events-and-blogs/news/virtual-pompey-stargazing-2022 

 The Ultimate Explorer Ticket is the best value option for 12-month entry to all the attractions at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard including HMS Victory, the Mary Rose, HMS Warrior, HMS M33, the galleries and exhibitions of the National Museum of the Royal Navy, the Royal Navy Submarine Museum, Gosport, Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower, Gosport and Harbour Tours and starts from £39 per adult and £29 per child. It is valid for numerous entries throughout the year, with family tickets available.   

For Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, book online at www.historicdockyard.co.uk . Entry onto the 12-acre historic area of the Dockyard is free with a Historic Quarter Pass, which is issued at the Visitor Centre between 10am and 4:30pm.   

The National Museum of the Royal Navy operates exciting sites across the country. From the oldest warship still afloat and a recreated Georgian Quayside at the National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool, to Europe’s largest naval aviation collection and an Aircraft Carrier Experience at Fleet Air Arm Museum.

Tickets, and more information, can be found on the National Museum of the Royal Navy’s website, and navigating to each site’s website: www.nmrn.org.uk