Explore Your Night Sky
Use these tools and resources to observe the moon, sky, and constellations. Or, learn about birds, bats, and other animals that need dark skies.
Be an Astronomer
Milky Way Nights July 16 - 18: Please note event changes for 2026!
There are two time slots available each night. Please choose one:
- Early Time Slot: 10:00 pm - 11:45 pm
OR
- Late Time Slot: 12:15 am - 2:00 am
To prevent overcrowding, please limit your visit to the time slot you have chosen. (Note: if you have chosen the late time slot, the calendar date on your ticket will reflect the fact that this timeslot happens very early the next morning.)
If you would like to put your name on the waitlist, please use the ShowPass links below:
$10 per person, children 7 and under do not need a ticket. Each ticket is only valid for the date and time listed on it. No tickets are available at the door. Please do not come to the RAO without a ticket. This event may be postponed in case of adverse weather. Ticket holders will be emailed if this happens. All proceeds go to RAO educational programming.
See astronomers in their natural habitat, under dark moonless skies. Late night public observing is a unique opportunity to see deep sky objects such as planetary nebula and globular clusters. A new moon on July 14 will create fantastic sky conditions.
Milky Way Nights feature an array of telescopes operated by University of Calgary astronomers and members of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada – Calgary Centre. Visitors will have the opportunity to look through the telescopes and ask astronomers questions about the universe.
Citizen Science
The Rothney Astrophysical Observatory is calling on citizen scientists to make brightness observations of the night sky above their homes. Help us protect the wilderness of dark skies!
Learning Opportunities with RAO Partners:
Be an Ecologist!
Learn more about the Ann and Sandy Cross Conservation Area, a nocturnal preserve near the RAO. It is dedicated to protecting habitat and providing space for native species of wildlife. Learn about the birds and animals that are active in the night and how the ASCCA conserves the land and night sky.
Be a Biologist!
Learn about bat conservation in Alberta. Bats are active at night. They have had to adapt the ways they hunt and fly due to light pollution in the sky. Learn more about how you can contribute to the ACBP through citizen science.
Be an Ornithologist!
Learn how to reduce the risks faced by migratory birds. The Calgary Migratory Bird Response Team surveys birds and bats in Calgary to learn how they are adapting to the challenge of light pollution. Learn more about their citizen science project and how you can help.
Be a Great Citizen.
Doug Thorp, RASC
Learn how you can identify and prevent light pollution in your community. The RASC wants everyone to have access to dark skies and have a chance to connect to the universe. They are a wonderful resource on how to observe the moon, planets and celestial objects.
What is light pollution?
Light pollution is excess artificial light that has a negative affect on humans, birds, animals, and plant life. Protecting the wilderness of the night sky is as as important as protecting the rest of our environment.
Measure the darkness of the sky near you
The Rothney Astrophysical Observatory is calling on citizen scientists to make brightness observations of the night sky over their homes.