Part of Carterton Space Week 2026
Join members of Phoenix Astro for a hands-on introduction to photographing the night sky, from first camera settings to the stories behind real images captured under the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve.
Before the workshop, Phoenix Astro members will set up telescopes and astrophotography equipment for an informal public session. Come along, meet local astronomers, see the gear, ask questions, and explore the beginnings of our Carterton Space Week exhibition featuring rockets, telescopes, spacecraft and the science of exploring the Universe.
The workshop itself is designed for beginners and curious improvers. You’ll learn how astrophotographers plan a night under the stars, focus in the dark, choose camera settings, compose images with the Milky Way and southern constellations, and begin processing your results. Members will share their own images, equipment, techniques and stories from nights spent beneath Wairarapa’s skies.
Bring your DSLR, mirrorless camera, tripod or smartphone if you have one. No specialist equipment is required to attend. You can come simply to learn, ask questions and discover how ordinary people create extraordinary images of the cosmos.
Weather permitting, the workshop will be followed by a practical evening session under the sky, with a backup date or alternative activity if conditions are cloudy.
What to bring
Curiosity, questions, and cosmic patience
Camera, tripod and remote shutter if you have them
Smartphone welcome
Notebook or phone for taking settings notes
