Looking at the stars is a past time as old as time, and on May 23, thousands across Australia gathered to try and break the record for the most people looking at the stars at one time.
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Over 150 people were part of the contingent at Charles Sturt University (CSU) helping break the world record for the most people stargazing across multiple venues.
Local astronomer, Dave Reneke said nights like the communal stargazing night were great for the whole community.
“We have access to view some of the best stars in our solar system,” Mr Reneke said.
“Of all the constellations in the world, we have the chance to view the best ones in Australia.
“Nights like this one are also a great chance for young people to come out, have a look at the stars and get inspired.”
Mr Reneke said the gimmick of the world record attempt was a fantastic way to entice the community to learn more about the planets and the stars.
“Coming out to break the record is potentially the first time people – especially kids – have looked through a telescope,” he said.
“And you never know, they might get the idea that astronomy, or science is something really cool that they want to get into.
“These kinds of events are things we should be doing more of.
“I know Port Macquarie is very light polluted but more people should come out to places like CSU or out to Wauchope and our surrounding towns and spend some time looking at the stars.”
Emily Cooper from the Port Macquarie Astronomical Association said the event was a great way to get a new generation interested in the stars.
“It has been a great turn out at CSU and it was just wonderful to see so many people interested in looking at the night sky,” Ms Cooper said.
“When you look at the stars and the planets through a telescope or binoculars you do feel a lot closer to something so much bigger than us.”
First year environmental science students at CSU in Port Macquarie, Peter Stevens and Lucy Constable said they were very excited to join in the fun.
“I am really interested in the stars and our solar system so to be able to come and be a part of something like this is really cool,” Peter said.
“It is also cool to think we could help break a world record.”
“Moving to Port Macquarie to study, it is great there are still opportunities to participate in something bigger, like this,” Lucy said.
“I think it is a great way for people to learn more and to get interested in the stars and our planets.”
