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NRF|SAAO Cape Town Open Night
February 28 @ 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Join us for Open Nights at the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) in Cape Town, held on the second and fourth Saturday of every month.
Each evening begins with an engaging presentation on astronomy or a related field of science, followed by a guided tour of the Observatory’s rich history—including our library, museum, and the historic 120-year-old McClean Telescope.
Weather permitting, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy stargazing through the McClean and additional smaller telescopes.
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- Gates open at 7:30 PM.
- Free entry for children aged 6 and under.
Please email cptbookings@saao.ac.za or call +27 21 447 0025 if you have any queries regarding bookings.
Speaker: Dr Encarni Romero Colmenero (NRF-SAAO Deputy Director: SALT Director)
Title: Celebrating 20 Years of the Southern African Large Telescope: Why SALT Matters
Abstract:
For two decades, the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) has stood at the heart of astronomy in Africa — a flagship scientific instrument that has transformed how we explore the universe from the southern skies. In this talk, we will look at what makes SALT unique, why it was built in Sutherland, and how its design allows us to study everything from exploding stars to distant galaxies. We will reflect on the science milestones achieved over the past 20 years, the role of SALT in growing South African and African astronomy, and the international partnerships that have formed around this remarkable telescope.
SALT’s story is not only about discoveries in the night sky, but also about building scientific capacity, taking advantage of some of the darkest skies on Earth, and protecting those skies from threats such as increasing light pollution. We will explore how SALT works, the instruments behind its breakthroughs, and the ecosystem of other telescopes on the Sutherland plateau that support and enhance its science.
From its early vision to its latest results, SALT continues to play a vital role in promoting science in South Africa, training new generations of astronomers, and securing the country’s place in global astrophysics. Join us for a journey through its history, its impact, and the exciting future ahead.