The Astrophysics Camp, organized by the Aldebaran association for nearly three decades, serves as an important platform for knowledge sharing and networking among people with a shared interest in the Universe. It connects the academic environment with the community of amateur astronomers and creates space for science outreach.
“For 28 years, a great group of people has been meeting at the Astrophysics Camp in Temešvár to discuss both the world of physics and the world around us,” says Marek Novotný from the Department of Circuit Theory at FEL CTU, who has taken over the organization of the camp this year together with Jakub Štulík, a student of the Electronics and Communications program.
Together, they aim to make the event more accessible to young people and welcome new participants, especially students from FEL CTU as well as other universities. They hope to attract attendees with a friendly atmosphere and informal meetings with leading experts in astrophysics.
Lectures on Astrophysical Oddities and a Visit to a Crocodile Zoo
Participants can look forward to lectures by Prof. Petr Kulhánek from FNSPE CTU, who will talk about recent developments, unusual phenomena in astrophysics, and scientific misconceptions. Other speakers include, for example, Jakub Rozehnal, Director of the Prague Planetarium. The night sky will be guided by astronomy popularizer Ivan Havlíček, and MUDr. Vítězslav Kříha from Bulovka Hospital, who previously worked at FEL CTU and was a regular guest at the “Physics Thursdays” series.
“Temešvár offers excellent conditions for astrophysics lectures, observations, and even some light ‘debriefing.’ At the same time, there are many sports and leisure opportunities available,” confirms Jakub Štulík from FEL CTU.
Among the sports activities available to participants are volleyball, table tennis, and even canoeing or windsurfing, as the recreation center is located near the Orlík Reservoir. During the camp, participants can also take various trips in the surrounding area. A popular destination is Zvíkov Castle, which can even be reached on foot, offering a pleasant hike in nature. About a 30-minute drive away, visitors can also explore attractions such as the Crocodile Zoo in Protivín. In the evenings, participants gather around a campfire, roast sausages, play guitar, and sing together.
The participation fee is CZK 1,500 per person and includes accommodation, full board at the recreation center, and the entire professional program. You can register now on the Aldebaran association’s website. Capacity is limited, so don’t wait until the last minute to sign up.
