Centre for Astronomy, Solar Radiation and Climate (CASRAC)
Physics, Department of Biological and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Sciences
University of Southern Queensland
Toowoomba(-27.5S, -151.9E, Alt 693m), Australia.
A description of the stellar astrophysics research we do at USQ can
now be found here
Some visual images
from our astrophysics research including "starspot movies" now can be found here.
Background
The Centre for Astronomy, Solar Radiation and Climate was established in 1980 and operates within the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) in Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia.
Research
Astronomical research within the Centre aims to use observations of stars to understand the brightness variations of our own star, the sun. Researchers in the Centre also study solar UV radiation on the earth's atmosphere and at it's surface. Extensive research is undertaken in the measurement of UV.
Click here to go to the Astrophysics homepage
Click here to go to the Atmospheric Physics homepage
Current Astronomical Data
Sunrise on the 5/12/08 : 4:49 am Sunset: 6:38 pm
Moonrise on the 5/12/08 : 11:52 am Moonset: ---
NB. These are approximate times only. If required, please contact CASRAC for more precise times.
The Centre runs the Mt Kent Observatory and provides research facilities for staff and students in the Department of Biological & Physical Sciences.
Each year staff from the Centre travel to local primary and secondary schools to give lectures and demonstrations explaining the research currently being undertaken by the Centre. A computer controlled portable 10 inch telescope is also taken to primary and secondary schools for viewing nights by Centre member, Mr Eugene O'Donohue who has had a lifetime of astronomical experience. Extensive consultancy is undertaken by the UV Measurements group within the Centre under the leadership of Dr Alfio Parisi.
CENTRE STAFF:
Professor John Mainstone, Head of Centre
A/Professor Roger Stone (QCCA), Climatologist Dr Alfio Parisi, Chief UV Research Physicist Dr Brad Carter, Chief Astronomy Research Physicist Dr Jeff Sabburg, Chief Environmental Research Physicist
Dr Joachim Ribbe, Climatologist (Physical Oceanography) Dr Michael Kimlin, UV Research Physicist (Univ. of Georgia, USA) Mr Terry Murphy, Astronomer Mr Eugene O'Donohue, Astronomer