William Hulme School pupils represent UK in European SkyWatch contest
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Two young astronomers, Samir Haq and Ishaq Mahmood, from William Hulme's Grammar School in Manchester have been invited to fly to Athens in November to represent the UK in the European SkyWatch Contest, which aims to raise public awareness of scientific and technological developments. Physics teacher Mr. John Thomson said, "These young men have a fantastic opportunity to carry out scientific research in a way which was not possible before the introduction of robotic telescopes. It makes real science possible in real time in the classroom. It gives a tremendous boost to the teaching of science in the 21st Century." Both Samir and Ishaq obtained their GCSEs in Astronomy this year by studying at school and in their spare time.
Financed by the European Community in conjunction with its scientific partners, the SkyWatch project is a major part of European Science Week 2005. It aims to introduce European youth to the world of scientific research by utilising a global network of five robotic telescopes, including the Faulkes Telescope in Hawaii. Students will be able to make observations via the internet which will contribute to the success of their projects. Thirty successful teams from all over Europe will present their projects in Athens between 25 and 26 November. William Hulme's is one of ten teams competing in the 11-16 year-old category.
From the SkyWatch website: www.sky-watch.org
Science Week wants to put the 'wow' factor back into science and technology, stimulating interest in scientific research and young people are the perfect place to begin. Where are tomorrow's scientists and inventors? Science Week wants to bring the challenges and excitement of the world of science to young people - and the young at heart - around Europe. In so doing, it hopes to revitalise scientific education, and to provide a beacon for the future of science and technology in Europe and beyond.
