The Cosmos

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‘Ethan Caldwell is an amateur astronomer who grew up in the serene rural town of Chinchilla, Australia. With a childhood rich in outdoor adventures and a deep connection to the night sky, Ethan share how early experiences under the stars sparked a lifelong curiosity about the universe. From memorable stargazing moments to the excitement of joining local astronomy clubs, the conversation highlights their evolving understanding of celestial wonders and their aspirations for future exploration.’

Background

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I grew up on the outskirts of Chinchilla, a small rural town in Australia known for its friendly community and beautiful landscapes. Life there was simple and laid-back, surrounded by vast fields and a close-knit atmosphere. My childhood was filled with outdoor adventures—riding bikes along dusty roads, playing cricket with friends, and exploring the nearby bushland.

Chinchilla had a charm all its own. The local community was tight, with everyone knowing each other. I remember the annual events, like the Chinchilla Melon Festival, where the whole town would come together to celebrate. It was a highlight of the year, complete with parades, games, and, of course, plenty of delicious melons!

Growing up in such an environment instilled in me a strong sense of community and appreciation for nature. The wide-open spaces allowed for endless exploration, and I loved spending time outdoors, whether it was fishing in the nearby rivers or hiking through the bush.

Even though my childhood was rich with experiences, it was the quiet nights in Chinchilla that sparked my curiosity about the universe. Looking up at the stars after a day of adventure connected me to something larger than myself. Recently, as I revisited those memories through documentaries on space exploration, I felt that same sense of wonder. It reminded me of where my journey began and reignited my passion for learning more about astronomy.

Photo provided by Historical Society of Chinchilla

What sparked your interest in astronomy, especially as someone who's just starting out?

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One night when I was a kid, around 11 PM, I looked out my window from my bedroom and saw a large ball of fire streaming through the night sky. At the time, I convinced myself it was an alien craft (Thanks to sneaking out of bed and catching series of the X-files on the telly), of course, I later learnt was a large meteorite.

I decided to sneak out of the house, grab a small ladder, and climb onto our roof so I could lie down and gaze at the sky. This became a habit; whenever I felt restless, I would climb up to stargaze, pondering my existence and place in the world.

Recently, I stumbled upon some documentaries about space exploration and the mysteries of the universe, which reignited that childhood wonder.

Can you share your first memorable experience with stargazing, and what you learned from it?

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My first real stargazing experience as an adult was last summer when I went camping with friends. We drove out to a remote area to escape the city lights. As night fell, I was blown away by how many stars were visible. I learned that just a little distance from urban light can reveal an entirely different sky. It felt like I was seeing the universe for the first time all over again just like when I was a child.

What is your favourite celestial object to observe so far, and what makes it special for you as a beginner?

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Right now, I’m obsessed with the moon. It’s so accessible, and every time I look at it through my telescope, I feel this connection. The craters and shadows are mesmerizing, and it’s incredible to think about how close it is compared to everything else.

How do you stay updated on current astronomical discoveries, considering there’s so much to learn?

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I follow a few astronomy podcasts and YouTube channels (StarTalk All-Stars). They break things down in a way that’s easy to understand. I also recently started using an astronomy app that gives me daily updates and notifications about events, which keeps me engaged. I’m currently using Star Walk 2 as it is a beginners app.

Image of YouTube Channel StarTalk All-Stars

What kind of telescope do you use, and what do you appreciate most about it as an amateur astronomer?

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I have a SVBONY SV503 Portable Telescope which I brought on Amazon. It’s not fancy as far as telescopes go, but it’s perfect for me right now. I love how portable it is; I can easily take it on trips. It gives me clear images of the moon and some planets, which is just thrilling to see.

This is the link if anyone is interested -

SVBONY SV503 Portable Telescope

Can you walk us through your typical stargazing setup and any challenges you face?

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Sure! I usually check the weather and find a good spot away from lights. I set up my telescope, which can be a bit tricky sometimes—getting it aligned just right is a challenge! I often end up fumbling with the setup, but I’m learning to be patient with myself.

How do you choose your observation locations, especially as someone still learning the ropes?

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I look for places recommended by local astronomy groups or online forums. I also try to find spots with minimal light pollution. It’s a learning curve, but I’ve found a couple of good locations that work well for me.

What techniques have you found helpful for identifying constellations and other celestial bodies?

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I’ve started using a star map app that shows me what’s in the sky at any given time. It’s like having a personal guide! I’ve also learned a few key constellations, and now I try to connect them like a game of connect-the-dots when I’m out.

Have you participated in any astronomical events, like meteor showers or eclipses? What was that experience like for you?

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Yes! I watched the Perseid meteor shower last summer. I went to a local park with a few friends, and we laid on blankets, just waiting. When those meteors started streaking across the sky, it was breathtaking. We all cheered and shared excitement—it felt like being part of something bigger.

What upcoming astronomical event are you most excited about, and why?

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I’m really looking forward to the next lunar eclipse. There’s something magical about watching the moon change colour. I’m planning to invite a few friends over to share the experience, and I hope we can set up our telescopes together.

Are you part of any astronomy clubs or groups? How has being involved helped you in your learning journey?

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I recently joined a local astronomy club. It’s been amazing! Everyone is so welcoming and eager to share their knowledge. I’ve learned so much from their experiences, and it’s great to be part of a community that shares my interests.

How do you share your passion for astronomy with friends and family, especially as you learn?

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I try to bring my telescope to family gatherings or friends’ houses. I love showing them what I’ve learned, like pointing out constellations or letting them look at the moon. I also share interesting facts or discoveries whenever I can—it’s fun to spark their curiosity!

What is the most surprising thing you've learned about the universe so far, considering your amateur status?

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I think the sheer scale of everything has been the biggest surprise. Just learning about the vast distances between stars and galaxies is mind-blowing. It makes our problems seem so small in comparison, which is humbling.

How has your understanding of astronomy evolved since you first started exploring it?

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At first, I was just fascinated by the visuals—the pretty pictures of space. Now, I’m starting to grasp the science behind it, like gravity and how stars form. It’s exciting to understand the mechanics, but I still have so much to learn!

What are some of your goals related to astronomy as you continue to learn and grow?

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I’d love to deepen my knowledge and maybe even take some courses on astrophysics or observational astronomy. I also want to get more involved in community outreach, helping to inspire younger generations to explore the night sky.

If you could travel anywhere in the universe, where would you choose to go, and what draws you to that place?

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If I could go anywhere, I’d love to visit one of the moons of Jupiter, like Europa. The thought of exploring an icy world that might harbor life is incredible. It’s like the ultimate adventure, and I can’t help but wonder what secrets it holds beneath that icy surface.

Ethan Caldwell

The Cosmos

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