Stargazing at Kloofendal Reserve delights families
The Kloofendal Nature Reserve hosted a successful stargazing event that allowed local families to observe the moon and Venus through professional telescopes. The evening combined educational astronomy presentations with hands-on observation to foster community interest in science.
Why it matters
Community-led science initiatives help increase public engagement with astronomy and environmental conservation.
The night sky came alive at Kloofendal Nature Reserve as hundreds of residents attended a fully booked stargazing evening that combined science, nature and community spirit.
Visitors arrived before sunset to take part in guided Planet Walks, exploring the scale of the solar system before settling in for astronomy presentations at the Ecological Centre on Saturday, July 18.
Meran Wilson sets up for the event. Photo: Neliswa Sibiya
As darkness fell, members of West Rand Astronomy Club set up numerous telescopes, allowing attendees to observe the night sky up close.
To preserve everyone’s night vision, guests were provided with red cellophane to cover their cellphone torches before entering the reserve, creating the perfect conditions for stargazing.
Doryn Jolly sets up her telescope to look at the moon and Venus. Photo: Neliswa Sibiya
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