Matariki is one of the hot and timely topics at this week's meeting of the Tauranga Astronomical Society. 

The club, which is meeting on Tuesday evening at the clubrooms at Fergusson Park, is open to all to attend, with the possibility of viewing the sky through the telescopes if the night sky is clear.

The evening will feature Matariki items with an on-screen simulation of Matariki rising, and information about the stars that make up the constellation, also known as Pleiades.

The meeting also features the latest in astronomy news from NASA, ESA and Rocket Lab, with a selection of interesting videos and live presentations.

The whetu - stars - of Matariki. Image: Stardome.

Tauranga Astronomical Society president David Greig says the Moon and planets won't be visible during this meeting but weather permitting, the constellations Scorpius - Maui's fish hook - and the Southern Cross will be visible.

Admission to the meeting which starts at 7.30pm, is $5 for visitors, free for members, and school age children are free. There is no Eftpos available, so the club asks for cash only.

"Please enter via the front entry foyer area, not via the front deck -  this will be roped off," says David.

"At around 8.20pm, we will have a 10 minute break. Tea/coffee/Milo and biscuits are available for $2."

The main meeting ends around 9pm.

Matariki / Pleiades and Venus rising on June 23, 2022. Photo: Amit Kamble.

"Are you interested in learning how to use our telescopes and becoming part of our team to help with our viewing nights? Come along! We would love for you to join us.

"Some families with young children choose to leave during or after the break. If the sky is clear, telescope viewing may continue on after 9pm for those remaining."

Optional 12 Month membership is $40 for individuals, $50 for families, or $20 for tertiary students.

"This gives you free entry to any of our meetings and viewing nights, access to our loan telescopes (a hire fee and bond may apply) and access to our extensive library.

"Our regular public meetings are held on the second and fourthTuesday of each month, March to November, at 7:30 pm. Presentations are given on current astronomical topics.

"All those interested in astronomy in the Bay of Plenty district are invited to attend. Weather permitting, there may be opportunities for viewing sessions through our various telescopes."

Matariki / Pleiades above Mauao at 5.55am on Friday, June 28, 2024 as seen from Fergusson Park, Matua. Simulated view using Starry Night Pro.

The club also has an extensive range of TAS caps, beanies, polo and tee shirts, hoodies and jackets.

"They make great gifts for astronomy enthusiasts of all ages," says David.

The Tauranga Astronomical Society observatory is located in the Otumoetai Sports & Recreation Club building in Fergusson Park, end of Tilby Drive, Matua, Otumoetai, Tauranga.

Next meeting of Tauranga Astronomical Society, 7.30pm, Tuesday, June 25 at Fergusson Park.