The London Amateur Astrophysics Group (LAAG)
Have you always had an interest in black holes, relativity or the Big Bang - but maybe you weren't able to study them at college or university?
The London Amateur Astrophysics Group (LAAG) was set up to help members of the public discuss and study these and many other topics in Astrophysics.
Some subjects covered so far at the group include:
The Big Bang and early Universe, galaxy formation, active galactic nuclei, galactic discs, quasars, solar physics, stars, pulsars, cepheid variables, supernovae, neutron stars, white dwarfs, black holes, CMB, how the elements were created, Olbers' paradox, gravitational lensing, the planets, comets, asteroids, the moon, near earth objects, binary stars, the x-ray Universe, the radio universe, the James Webb Space Telescope, Vera Rubin Space Telescope,..
In addition we have had several talks on theoretical topics including: special relativity, quantum theory, spectroscopy, dark matter, dark energy, atomic physics, gravitation, dynamical systems, AI, and possible futures for the Universe.
Member requirements? Members should:
- Be interested in Astrophysics. (There are many other groups across the UK for amateur Astronomers.)
- Have A level maths or the equivalent qualification
- Be an amateur (there are other groups for those with degrees in, or studying, Astronomy or Astrophysics).
- No prior knowledge of astrophysics is assumed.
- Be willing to give a talk to the group on their chosen topic at some point
- Be over 18. (Current ages range from 22 to 84.)
- Agree to the Royal Astronomical Society Code of Conduct
Meetings are free and are held in person only at the Royal Amateur Astronomical Society in London. The sessions are intended to be informal, friendly and fun so please contact events@ras.ac.uk for further details if you are interested.