What makes thousands of people stay up all night, driving to remote locations, squinting at the sky, and obsessively checking space weather forecasts? The quest to see the Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis, has developed something of a cult following — forging a substantial community of scientists, awe seekers, astrophotographers, and nature lovers. In this illuminating session, we’ll explore the science and the magic of auroras. We’ll learn why Tasmania is one of the best spots on earth to witness this dazzling phenomenon, hear from the founder of Australia’s largest online aurora enthusiast community, then join two passionate astrophotographers on a visual journey through their most extraordinary aurora hunts.

This is a companion talk to the Southern Nights photography exhibition.

This session is part of the Beaker Street Main Stage at Hobart City Hall. Your House Band for the evening will be the dangerously well-rehearsed Stevie and the Bunsen Burners. Enter through Market Place, where you’ll find drinks, food, fires, and friendly strangers. Come early, stay late to enjoy all the action.

Check out this You Tube video reel highlighting past years: