EVERY summer the University of Reading offers free public observatory tours.
Anyone interested in learning how its scientists measure and record local weather can sign up to visit its Atmospheric Observatory.
The tours are especially intended for school-age students who might be considering applying to the University of Reading’s undergraduate course in meteorology, but are suitable for all ages, from 8 to adult (under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian).
The Atmospheric Observatory is situated between Erlegh House and Bridges Hall, Earley Gate, Whiteknights campus, where the university makes its detailed daily weather observations.
It has been recording local weather since 1908, and now has almost 120 years of recorded temperatures, rainfall, barometric pressure and (since 1956) sunshine duration.
Bookings are now open for this year’s observatory tours.
Very popular, they often book up quickly, and there is a waiting list for hopeful weather watchers.
This year tours will take place on Wednesday, July 8; Thursday, July 30; and Friday, August 7.
Starting at 3pm, they last for 45-50 minutes.
They are free, but must be pre-booked online.
To book, visit: eventbrite.com (Search for University of Reading – there are three entries; one for each tour date)
For more information, log onto: reading.ac.uk/meteorology
(The university is also hoping to include limited shorter observatory tours as part of its Centenary Community day on Saturday, May 16.
These will not be pre-booked, and further details will be released nearer the event.)
