ASA Harley Wood School of Astronomy

In conjunction with the Annual Scientific Meeting, the ASA sponsors the Harley Wood School of Astronomy for postgraduate students each year. The School is named in memory of Dr Harley Wood, first President of the ASA.

The School usually involves 2 days of invited lectures and discussion centering around one theme. The atmosphere is informal and emphasises contact between students from all over Australia.

Harley Wood was Director of Sydney Observatory for over thirty years from 1943 to 1974, during which time the Observatory was engaged in the Astrographic Catalogue, a mammoth international project to photograph the whole sky. His work in the wider context of the Australian and international astronomical community was prolific. He was also heavily involved in the popularisation of astronomy and making astronomy available to everyone. In particular, he was at the forefront of moves to draw Australian astronomers together into a professional organisation and in recognition of this work became the Foundation president of the ASA.

A book is available on Harley Wood and his family’s life at the Observatory, written by Roslyn Russell. Copies can be obtained from the Sydney Observatory bookshop.

HWSA 2022

24th to 27th June 2022. This will be a face-to-face meeting in Tasmania (virtual attendance will also be available). Details are to be confirmed. More information.

HWSA 2021

Friday 9th July to Sunday 11th July 2021. This was be a face-to-face meeting in regional Victoria (virtual attendance was also be available).  More information.

HWSA 2020

Due to COVID-19, The Harley Wood School of Astronomy HWSA2020 was held via zoom on 6th July 2020.