Speaker profile

Mr Steve Tonkin photo
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Mr Steve Tonkin

FRAS

Available for booking

Location

Fordingbridge, Hampshire, England

Travel distance

100 miles travel distance

Role

Amateur Astronomer

Role

Astronomy Author

Role

Science Communicator

Summary

Steve is a keen amateur astronomer and advocate for better lighting at night.

Full biography

Steve is the Dark Skies Advisor to both the Federation of Astronomical Societies and the International Dark Sky Reserve on the Cranborne Chase National Landscape, and splits his time between these and doing astronomical outreach. As well as astronomical societies in Britain and abroad, he frequently speaks to Rotary and Probus clubs, U3A groups, and schools/youth organisations. Steve has authored many articles and several books on practical aspects of astronomy and has a monthly column in BBC Sky at Night Magazine, for which he also writes equipment and book reviews.

He can deliver talks remotely over Zoom, Webex or MS Teams.

You can view his Bookings Calendar at https://astunit.com/talks.php

Fee (but not travel expenses from Fordingbridge, Hampshire) may be waived or reduced for charitable organisations supporting children or the environment. Ask for details.

Stargazing sessions

Mr Steve Tonkin can host stargazing sessions including guided tours of the night skies and observing using telescopes or binoculars.

Affiliations

  • Royal Astronomical Society (Fellow)
  • Fordingbridge Astronomers (Founder Member)
  • Wessex Astronomical Society
  • Cranborne Chase International Dark Sky Reserve (Dark Skies Advisor)
  • Federation of Astronomical Societies (Dark Skies Adviser)
  • Lectures

    Ten Ways the universe Tries to Kill You

    Two Eyes are Better than One

    Pseudoastronomy #1: Charlatans and Frauds

    Pseudoastronomy #2: Planet X, Zetans and Lost Civilisations

    Pseudoastronomy #3: Hollow Moon and Flat Earth

    How Old is It?

    Are we Alone?

    The Star of Bethlehem

    Time and Calendars

    And Yet It Moves

    Journey Into Space

    Star Myths (astronomical story-telling)

    Connect with Mr Steve Tonkin

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