AstroSoc has had resounding success this year in keeping outreach events going. The society wasted no time in changing tack during lockdown to deliver what can only be described as a stellar series of events. Building on their already large social media presence, AstroSoc launched their AstroSoc YouTube channel where they hosted content that attracted 200 subscribers and over 3,000 views from a worldwide audience. One of the most notable series was Quarantine Talks. Running for ten weeks between July and September 2020, faculty and society members delivered talks on a number of topics ranging from galaxies to infrared astronomy, particle physics, exoplanets and more. This, paired with the continuation of British Science Week events, solidified AstroSoc’s reputation for excellent and cutting-edge methods of engaging with the public.

AstroSoc did not discriminate in their efforts to immerse both students and the public in the science. Their Legacy and Careers Night reflected on the society’s rich hundred-year history and showcased a panel of physicists and researchers from the department as well as UoB alumni currently in Oxford University and Liverpool John Moores Astrophysics Research Institute. Astronomy in the City events brought astronomy to even more people including school children while Tea, Talk and Telescope and Sky This Month videos opened up the night sky by teaching the public how and what to observe from their gardens with no equipment. In all, AstroSoc has shown what it is to keep public involvement at the heart of a society.