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
Space Night October 10!
Our first Space Night of the fall will take place on Saturday, October 10.
*Please do not come to the RAO unless you have a confirmed ticket. We are running at capacity for each event. To prevent over crowding, you must limit your visit to the timeslot you've chosen. Showpass will contact people on the waitlist if tickets become available for purchase. See more details here.
Event runs rain or shine. If anything changes, ticket holders will receive an email. Please dress for the weather. This event is geared towards older children, youth and adults.
What: Space Night at the RAO!
Presentations: Mathew Yastremski: I’ll Take “Energetic Electrons” for $500. Roland Dechesne: The Sky Tonight.
Telescopes: In addition to presentations, Space Night features access to an array of telescopes operated by University of Calgary astronomers and members of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe the night sky and ask 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.