Calgary Star light, star bright.....

Open House at The Rothney Astrophysical Observatory (RAO) on August 19 (8:30 pm - 11:30pm)

http://www.ism.ucalgary.ca/top/rao/

The University of Calgary's Rothney Astrophysical Observatory (RAO) would like to welcome the general public to visit their facility on Saturday evening, August 19. The U. of C. hosts an Open House evening once a month every May - Sept. No sign-up is needed on any of these occasions... just show up! Note: There is a new fee this year of just $5.00 per car. Presentations of the work carried out at the observatory and reviews of current topics in astronomy, as well as tours of the facilities are provided. They also have telescopes for everyone to look through as well as a brand new Interpretive Centre with educational displays!

Talks run from 8:30 to around 9:30. This month the featured speakers will be Dr. Rob Thompson and Mike Williams. Each of the Open House evenings last from 8:30 pm - 11:30 p.m. (the gates open at 7:30 pm). The telescopes are open all evening, allowing you to see them at your leisure. If the sky is clear, viewing through telescopes on the observing terrace begins around 9:30pm.

Regardless of the time of year at which the Open House is held, visitors are advised to bring flashlights and dress warmly. The RAO is on an exposed hill and the wind can be biting. If it does turn out to be calm and warm, mosquito repellent is a good idea.

Directions to the RAO: Drive west on Highway 22X and turn south on Highway 22 (to Millarville). Travel approximately 2 km and turn left up the gravel road to the parking area at the top of the hill where the telescope domes are located.

The weather looks to be partly cloudy Saturday, with a low of 13 degrees overnight. Should be pretty good for viewing. A few friends and I are heading out there.

If you'd like to come along or meet up, post here!