Solar system and beyond

QE boys were given a special tour of the cosmos during a visit to the Royal Observatory at Greenwich.

A group of 23 Year 9 students took part in a visit to attend an interactive show entitled Solar System, Galaxy, Universe and Beyond, which was led by one of the ROG’s astronomers. They received insights into how observations by early astronomers led to a modern understanding of the solar system and how astronomers first measured the distances to the nearest stars. The show then moved on to the latest technologies for exploring and understanding structures in space.

“The boys thoroughly enjoyed the visit,” said Physics teacher John Varndell. “In addition to the show, the boys visited the newly-refurbished planetarium and saw John Harrison’s famous chronometers. They also had the opportunity to bestride the east/west meridian line.”

En route to the Observatory, in brilliant weather, the boys were able to see the Cutty Sark and the new Olympic Equestrian Stadium. “The boys’ behaviour was exemplary,” said Mr Varndell. “A teacher from another school praised both their behaviour and appearance, which was very satisfying.”