presented by : Dr Paul Payne
Adult education courses in Astronomy, Einstein's Relativity and Quantum Physics. Presented by Dr Paul Payne, with over 30 years teaching experience, using unique 3D dynamic graphics. Complex concepts are made understandable through powerful visualisations. The courses take you from an introduction to the night sky to delving into the wonderful universe described by modern physics. The courses are free of mathematics except for " The Theorem of Pythagoras in Physics" and "HSC Relativity" .

The courses are currently held at historic Woodford Academy, in the Blue Mountains. Easily accessible by road and train.

All courses are presented in stereoscopic 3D.

Evening courses are complimented with telescope viewing of the night sky, weather permitted.

Exploring the Heavens

An introduction to the wonderful night sky. In this course you will identify, and understand the nature of the planets, stars and constellations of the night sky. Also learn which type of telescope is the one for you. Each evening is complemented with telescope viewings of the night sky, weather permitting.
- Course Outline -
- Promotional Video -
5 x evenings 6:30pm - 8:30pm
commencing : 27 April 2023
cost: $260 ( concession $230 )
inquires : paulpayne@relativity.net.au

Astronomical Concepts

An 8 evening conceptual exploration of the universe. Light, Quantum physics and Relativity are introduced and applied to astronomy. We also examine the latest discovers and their significance. A few key concepts go a long way.
- Course Outline -
Access to course videos and notes
8 x Q&A evenings 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Dates to be announced
inquires : paulpayne@relativity.net.au

Understanding Relativity

This online course introduces you to the wonderful special theory of relativity. We explore the dynamics of the universe usings Einstein's malleable framework of space and time. Using unique dynamic graphics the course will explain the effects of time dilation, length contraction, the lose of simultaneous events, and the nature of mass and energy. A short video showcases the graphics used in the course. The website for the course is freely available for your regitration.
The number of participants will be limited to 15.
- Course Outline -
5 x Wednesday evenings 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Dates to be announced
Cost : $180 ( concession $140 )
Bookings and inquires : paulpayne@relativity.net.au

Understanding Quantum

The follow on course to Understanding Quantum 1. We will explore the quantum description of atoms, the interaction of light with atoms and the amazing quantum explanation for simple optics. You will understand how stars shine through quantum effects and see the application of quantum in MRI and computing. The course will begin with Bell's theorem which, through experimentation, has shown that 'spooky action at a distance' does seem to describe the real world.
The number of participants will be limited to 15.
Course Outline
5 x Tuesday evenings 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Dates to be announced
Cost : $180 ( concession $140 )
Bookings and inquires : paulpayne@relativity.net.au

The Theorem of Pythagoras in Physics

This course introduces you to how mathematics is applied to physics.
We start with geometry and Pythagoras's Theorem. It is the theorem that everyone learns at school that relates the sides of a right angle triangle,

a2 + b2 = c 2

It appears everywhere in physics. It is applied in Newtonian mechanics, momentum, Einstein's Relativity, wave theory, the probability of states in quantum mechanics and much more. Over 5 evenings we explore the many ways to interprete this ancient, simple theorem and explore how it gives us profound insights into universe.

The course places an emphasis on applying the maths to actual physical examples. It also shows you have physic's use approximations to make the mathematics simpler.
- Course Outline -
Access to course videos and notes
5 x evenings 7:00pm - 8:00pm
course postponed
cost: $150 ( concession $120 )
Bookings and inquires : paulpayne@relativity.net.au

HSC Relativity

Two online sessions for HSC students to demystify Einstein's Relativity. Using your preferred online platform, and my interactive graphics, we explore
  • the two axioms of Relativity, time dilation, lose of simultaneity and length contraction.
  • mass, momentum and energy
Questions are encouraged during the presentation and after.
The two sessions are independent and can be booked separately.
Feel free to register with my online Relativity course and experience similar graphics to those used in the presentations.
- Course Outline -
1 hour presentation plus Q&A

cost: $15 per student per session ( teacher free )

Use my email to arrange a time.
paulpayne@relativity.net.au

Astro-Update

A fortnightly free online presentation of interesting topics in astronomy and physics. The next presentation
7:00pm, Thursday, 3 November.

Q & A

Introduction to the Presentation

To end off 2022 I thought a casual Q&A session would be appropriate as we approach the festive season. I am sure many of you have a question or two that begs answering, or at least one that will stimulate some discussion.

?

I am happy to field questions on the night, or if you send any through before 7:00 pm Thursday I can give it some thought and put some graphics together to make my response more engaging.

Thank you for keeping Astro-Update alive during 2022, I thoroughly enjoy them, and I look forward to seeing you in February 2023.

The presentation is free.

Time : 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Date : Thursday, 15 December

Enrolment and inquires : paulpayne@relativity.net.au