Exoplanet and astrophotonic enthusiasts are invited to a special space social session hosted by the Port Macquarie Astronomical Association from 6pm to 10pm on November 2.

Attendees can expand their horizons with a talk by astronomer and Sydney University Associate Professor John O'Byrne.

PMAA event coordinator Alice Totonjian said the event is a highlight for the group's 60 members and the general public.

"There are a whole lot of things to do such as live music, food, there will be displays and a display of the proposed new building for people to see," she said.

"People can look around the displays, listen to music and go into the auditorium for the main talk before looking at the telescopes and mingling. There will also be a raffle for an eight inch telescope worth $600 to be drawn on the night.

"The highlight of the night will be a talk by Associate Professor John O'Byrne, this will be his first time to Port Macquarie.

"There's an element of mystery in night sky and people can come with their questions at the ready."

Professor O'Byrne, the secretary of the Astronomical Society of Australia will discuss exoplanets, observations of merging black holes and modern astrophotonics instrumentation.

Guest are also invited to view various sky objects with a number of telescopes and displays of science experiments, models and projects set up by local high school students.

PMAA vice-president Chris Ireland said the event is being used to fund a major re-development of the Port Macquarie Astronomical Observatory worth at least $3.5 million.

"This is an initial event to seek funds for our new building, which at this stage that could cost about $3.5 million to $4 million dollars," he said.

"The current building was built in 1961, commissioned in 1962 and officially open in 1965.

"Initially the new plan was create an auditorium to house at least 85 to 100 people, and incorporate a science centre for demonstrations. It will be a community building able to be used by community groups and available for functions, conference or meetings.

"Our current telescope is 14 inches. I think we are also looking at potentially a 16 inch for better viewing and IT in showing what we see on a screen."

The event held at St Columba Anglican School auditorium is suitable for ages 12 and over, tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for students.

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