As part of the National Trust Heritage Festival, the historic estate will host Mars One candidate Josh Richards for an evening of star gazing.

A comedian, physicist and engineer, Mr Richards will be sharing his experience as one of 100 astronaut candidates shortlisted for a one-way mission to Mars in 2031. 

“When I heard that they wanted to send people to Mars one way, I knew I had to write a comedy show about it,” he said

“It quickly turned into – I am doing this, who wants to come with me. 

“I want the next generation of kids to be able to go to an event like Saturday’s and rather than just looking at the sky and wondering, for them to grow up with the reality of actually being able to go to Mars.”

On Saturday Mr Richards will be joined by Michael Booth from the Astronomical Society of Tasmania as well as Aboriginal community leader Patsy Cameron, who will share Dreamtime stories.

National Trust Tasmania managing director Mathew Smithies said Heritage Festival was aimed at encouraging people to discover new parts of Tasmania’s history. 

“Places and story shape our cultural identity. This event uses the night sky to explore our heritage – past, present and future,” he said. 

“The culture and stories we’re living right now are forming part of our heritage and that of future generations.”

People are encouraged to bring along a blanket and chair or even camp as part of Saturday’s event, with set-up from 4pm and viewings from 7pm.

Tickets are $15 and can be booked at here.