NASA COMES TO KATHERINE TO SEE PLUTO
NASA is coming to Katherine to observe Pluto pass in front of a distant star on the 1st of June. Students from Charles Darwin University. The event, known as a stellar occultation, happens when Pluto passes in front of a distant star and casts its shadow on the Earth, much like a solar eclipse. Lecturer of stair pathways at CDU Carla Eisenberg expands on stellar occultation.
‘Stella Occulatioation is where a planet or asteroid that NASA wants to measure goes between earth and a really bright star at the right time and in the right place. At night and straight above, you are able to get a really accurate measurement if you have the right equipment.’
Charles Darwin University (CDU) students are joining a team of NASA-funded scientists and astronomers to observe Pluto pass in front of a distant star in Katherine on June 1.
CDU students are joining teams of observers from the United States that are bringing 12 portable telescopes set up between Darwin and south of Katherine to watch Pluto pass in front of the distant star.
Ms Eisenberg says CDU is helping with the logistics and training so nothing goes wrong within the 15-minute window Pluto will be visible.
NASA scientists would be connecting with the community at the CDU rural campus and encouraged people to come and meet the scientist and have a look through the telescopes.