S5 E1: Ben Coley - African Astronomy & Celestial Events

Ben Coley is a Professional Field Guide and Astronomy Educator who believes "Astronomy is the root of everything and to understand it is to achieve the ultimate connection with nature." For nearly two decades, he has entertained his guests with tales of the heavens as a part of their safari experience, and he has authored FGASA’s Specialist Astronomy Qualification, weaving an astronomical passion and knowledge to the country's advanced guiding qualifications. Having worked with Ben in the past to deliver a stargazing evening to our guests, we had to reconnect to take a deep dive into our southern skies. So we invited Ben to one of our favourite escapes in Klaserie where we got talking, and truly had our minds blown. Frames of reference entirely reframed! Ben says: "We believe in highlighting the cultural and environmental aspects of astronomy.  From how astronomy allowed early man to navigate and establish a society, to the traditional stories associated with the constellations, our Night Sky Safaris take people on a journey of discovery against the most stunning backdrop of them all." Under a darkening sky on safari, we watched as Ben brought the night to life, pointing out constellations, clusters, planets, distant galaxies, and nebulae. Using advanced telescopic equipment, a simple pair of binoculars, and a laser pointer, we watched as images and stories came to life. What a truly mind-altering experience on our tiny blue dot floating through space. Enjoy this immensely interesting chat with Ben on Campfire Conversations, and find him online to arrange a private night sky safari for a group of friends at home, or for a school event, or find out how Ben can deliver a virtual tour of the southern night skies. Ben's services are 100% available on our safaris in the Greater Kruger, and we know what an incredible impact they have. Find Ben online and get yourself acquainted with the night sky. You'll be asking yourself: "is it more daunting to imagine there are other beings out there, or is it more daunting to imagine we are entirely alone?" 🪐 celestialeventssa.com 🌌 [email protected] 👽 @celestial_events_sa

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