Pécs, Hungary – From March 24th to 30th, the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter in Pécs, southern Hungary, is set to transform into a hub for celestial exploration during its inaugural Astronomy Week. This event promises to captivate astronomy enthusiasts and curious minds of all ages, offering a diverse program that delves into the wonders of the universe.

The week-long celebration will feature a range of immersive experiences, including:

Planetarium Projections: Visitors can embark on cosmic journeys through captivating planetarium shows, exploring galaxies, planetary mysteries, and fundamental questions about the universe. A highlight will be the debut of "Solar flares, supernovae, black holes – the exciting lives and deaths of the Sun and other stars," which will become a regular feature.
Expert Lectures: Renowned astronomers and researchers will share their insights on cutting-edge space science. Topics will include the planetary arrangements in the film "Dune," the modern space race between the United States and China, the scientific accuracy of "Apollo 13," and the search for Earth 2.0. Dr. László Kiss, a prominent astronomer, will discuss the possibility of finding a "Plan B" for our planet. Krisztián Sárneczky, known for his discovery of impacting planets, will lead workshops detailing his findings.
Interactive Activities for Children: Young astronomers can participate in engaging activities, including a simulated "Mars mission" where they will explore the Martian surface using robots, fostering a hands-on understanding of space exploration.
Solar Observations: Safe sunspot observations will be conducted, including the observation of a partial solar eclipse (2-3% coverage) on March 29th. Evening telescope viewings will offer opportunities to admire the night sky's beauty.
VR Universe Experience: A virtual reality experience will allow visitors to immerse themselves in the cosmos, providing a unique and interactive way to explore the universe.
Traveling Planetarium: The Traveling Planetarium will offer full-dome film screenings, featuring animated films for children and educational documentaries for adults.
Planetarium Concert: A special planetarium concert by Szabolcs Kövi will blend astronomy and music, creating a mesmerizing experience with separate performances for children and adults. The concert will feature stunning visuals under the planetarium dome, accompanied by ethereal melodies.

Enhancements and Context:

Zsolnay Cultural Quarter: The Zsolnay Cultural Quarter is a revitalized industrial area that now serves as a cultural and artistic center in Pécs. It's an ideal location for an event that blends science and art.
Importance of Astronomy Outreach: Events like Astronomy Week play a crucial role in promoting scientific literacy and inspiring future generations of scientists and explorers.
Pécs's Cultural Significance: Pécs, one of Hungary's oldest cities, is known for its rich cultural heritage. Hosting such an event adds a modern, scientific dimension to its cultural offerings.
The rise of popular science: there is a world wide growth in the popularity of science, and the desire to learn more about our universe. This event is a great example of this trend.
Information about the partial Solar eclipse: Partial Solar eclipses occur when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, but only partially obscures the Sun. Even a small percentage of coverage can be a fascinating sight. Safety is paramount when observing solar events, and the event will provide safe viewing methods.
Astronomy Week at the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter promises to be an unforgettable experience, offering a blend of education, entertainment, and inspiration for all who attend.