Bringing space science to life
Emanuel School is celebrating a stellar success with its Specialist in Residence Program
Emanuel School is celebrating a stellar success with its Specialist in Residence Program – an initiative launched in 2024 with the generous support of the Emanuel School Foundation.
The program brings leading experts into classrooms to spark curiosity, inspire deep learning, and connect students with real-world knowledge.
This year, the program ventured into the cosmos with Astrophysicists in Residence, welcoming Professor Ben Montet and Margo Thornton from UNSW. Over several weeks, they guided students from pre-school to year 12 on an extraordinary journey through space exploration, and the search for exoplanets.
From analysing astronomical datasets and observing sunspots through UNSW’s powerful modified telescope, to building telescopes and touring the solar system in a portable planetarium, the program offered hands-on workshops and interactive lectures.
It was a rare opportunity for students to learn directly from two professional astrophysicists, and gain insight into the tools, techniques and critical thinking that drive space science and discovery.
Principal Linda Emms said, “Dr Montet and Ms Thornton’s passion for astrophysics and their remarkable ability to communicate its wonders, have left a lasting impact. We are deeply grateful for their contributions in inspiring our students to explore the cosmos.”
Both astrophysicists shared how “coming into this role, we were not sure what to expect”.
“After spending two weeks with the high school students, and then with the primary students, we can say with confidence that it has been such an impactful and rewarding experience for us to see students of all ages excited about space and science,” they said.
“Emanuel School has welcomed us with open arms, and provided us the platform to share our love of astronomy with not only students, but the faculty, parents, and even grandparents.
“It has been inspiring to see and experience the curiosity the students bring to every activity we have done with them.”
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