Astro PhD Student Retreat Evening @ UCLO

A few words from 1st year PhD student, Richard Brooks: "At times, astrophysics can feel like it ‘lives’ inside a computer and it’s possible to lose sight of where initial inspirations to study our universe comes from. Having the opportunity to visit UCLO was a welcomed reminder as to why we do. Observing the night sky through the UCLO telescopes provided some spectacular sights of the Moon and the Orion nebula, even given the hazy London conditions! In some way, I think all of us could relate the observing experience back to our own research, and I look forward to the next time I have the chance to head up to UCLO."

A few words from 3rd year PhD student, Mark Cunningham: "It was a really great evening that brought the PhD students together. It was lovely to spend time with each other outside of the NWW offices! A lot of us had never been to UCLO before and a large majority hadn't looked through a telescope before either (blasphemy for astronomy students!).  The weather held up thankfully and we got to look at the moon and the Orion Nebular which was fascinating to see. Using the telescopes and learning about the history of the observatory really made me feel more connected to the department - Thanks to Mark and Kay for organising!"

First five photos courtesy of Mark Cunningham. Last two photos courtesy of Richard Brooks.