Time & Date
Saturday, Jun 19
08:00pm - 11:00pm
Information
Ages: All Ages
$20.00 per car
U of C Rothney Astrophysical Observatory
2 km south of intersection of Highway 22 and 22X, southwest of Calgary
View directions
Media contact Jennifer Howse, 403-931-2366
Description
Join us for an evening of Blackfoot stories and astronomy. On the eve of National Aboriginal Day, we are honouring Canada’s First peoples and welcoming the first day of summer. View celestial objects through our telescopes, including the 1.8 metre ARCT, one of the largest telescopes in Canada. See our asteroid hunting and comet chasing ‘Baker Nunn’ telescope. We also have a robotic telescope called the “Clark-Milone”, which will be open for viewing. Our terrace features an array of telescopes operated by the University of Calgary astronomers and the Royal Astronomical Society, Calgary Centre. Loads of opportunities to see planets and stars! In the sky - The Sun is at its highest point in the sky and it will be the longest day of the year.
Where
The Rothney Astrophysical Observatory is located near Priddis, about 30 km southwest of the Calgary city center. Take Macleod Trail south. After passing Midnapore, turn right (west) onto Highway 22X (this is the Marquis of Lorne Trail), heading toward the mountains. Continue past Spruce Meadows to a major intersection where Highway 22X meets Highway 22. Turn left (south) toward Millarville. About 2 km down Highway 22, look for the big RAO sign. Just beyond the sign, turn left, go through the gate and follow the gravel road up the hill to the parking area. Click here for further driving information.
Special Notes
The RAO Observatory is located on a exposed hill, please dress warmly. Bring a flashlight so you can find your way back to your vehicle in the dark. Entrance fee and donation proceeds support RAO educational programming.
