Astrophysics with H.E.S.S.

Gamma Rays are the most energetic form of radiation and are produced by the most extreme objects (such as neutron stars and pulsars, supernova explosions, and regions around black holes) in the Universe.

A single object undergoing a gamma ray burst can momentarily shine 10 x brighter than an entire galaxy which contains hundreds of billions stars!

Only a handful of terrestrial observatories are doing astrophysics in the gamma ray range and the most powerful is in SA’s backyard in central Namibia.

Derek Duckitt of the Hermanus Astronomy Centre visited the HESS (High Energy Stereoscopic System) site in Namibia and will be doing a presentation on this fascinating subject on Thursday 7th August at 07h00 p.m. at SANSA.

This event forms part of National Science Week, an annual event that takes place in South Africa from 2nd August to 9th August.

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) funds National Science Week while the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA) coordinates the efforts of the organisations countrywide that were approved to take part in the activities this year.

Proudly, 2 of these organizations are based in Hermanus (The Hermanus Astronomy Centre and SANSA).

The aim is to promote an interest in and an appreciation of science and mathematics, both with adults and learners throughout the country, resulting in the promotion and support of research as well as the development of high-level skills in all fields of humanities, social and natural sciences, engineering and technology.

Contact Lynette at lynettegel@gmail.com or 084 515 4644 for more information.