The RAS Annual Picnic is you chance to have some R&R whilst enjoying the sun and an opportunity to talk to other Fellows and Guests of the Royal Astronomical Society.
After last years rocket launch, further developments have been taking place, so expect some further launches at Blackheath, which is nearby, after the main picnic. It will be your chance to add to the photographic history of the Society.
Please meet as 12:30 near to the General Wolfe statue which is located just East of the main entrance to the Royal Observatory Greenwich (formerly known as the Old Royal Observatory). If you arrive a little late, just head off Eastwards and look for the RAS Pennant flying! If further details are sought, please e-mail ras.picnic@hpsresearch.com
Additional notes:
• The full address & postcode (for Google & SatNav) is: Royal Observatory Greenwich, Blackheath Avenue, Greenwich Park, London SE10 8XJ
• Entry to the south part of the Royal Observatory site is free and includes the Astronomy Centre (Weller Astronomy Galleries, café, shop and planetarium) and Altazimuth Pavilion. There is a charge to enter the north part of the site, comprising Flamsteed House, the Meridian Building and Meridian Courtyard: Annual Pass £10, Day Pass £7(full price)/£5(concessions). See the Royal Observatory website for more information and for planetarium show times: http://www.nmm.ac.uk/places/royal-observatory/
• The National Maritime Museum has just opened its brand new Sammy Ofer Wing which is well worth a look (and has a nice café in case of rain): http://www.nmm.ac.uk/bigger/
PLEASE NOTE FOR 2011 - Due to the test events for the 2012 Olympics
• The area of Greenwich Park between the Observatory and the National Maritime Museum is currently fenced off while a test rig for the 2012 Olympic Equestrian Events Stadium is being dismantled. This shouldn't affect access to RAS picnic site but it may take people a few extra minutes to walk round it.
PS: We are looking for a venue for 2012 as it is unlikely the Park will be available to use due to the Olympics - please send ideas!