Public Events
The Rothney Astrophysical Observatory is a working science facility. We are only open to the public during programs or events.
The Universe is calling... answer it here.
Space Night March 2026
Space is the next frontier; Albertans are ready for this next chapter. “Albertans in Space” is an upbeat fun Podcast that aims to encourage education and discussion on what the imminent growth of the Space sector means. Meet podcast hosts Zac Trolley and Meghan Westelmajer who are sharing their amazing take on the innovative work of Albertans in near earth space and our place in the universe. Supported by TELUS STORYHIVE and the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, they explore the endless future possibilities for Alberta.The sky tonight presentation by the RASC will help you discover what is in the spring sky.
Space Night will feature access to an array of telescopes operated by University of Calgary astronomers and members of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada – Calgary Centre. You will have the opportunity to look through the telescopes and astronomers will be on hand to answer questions.
In the sky – A first quarter moon in Aries will appear as a sliver of light and allow for the dark sky conditions for ideal observing. Orion will fill the southern sky with his raised shoulder star Betelgeuse, a red supergiant star slowly moving toward supernova phase. Jupiter will be visible in Aries and lovely Venus will be setting in the west.
What: Space Night Event at the RAO: Presentation and viewing through RAO telescopes
Who: University of Calgary, Physics and Astronomy
Where: Rothney Astrophysical Observatory, east side of Highway 22, 2.4 km south of Hwy 22 and Hwy 22x interchange
When: Saturday March 21, 2026 – 8:00 p.m. to 11:00p.m. **Please dress for the weather**
Cost: $10 per person plus gst & fees – tickets available on Showpass. Ticket required for ages 8 and up, please note that the event is geared towards older children and up. This is a ticketed event and only those with a pre-purchased ticket will be admitted. No tickets are available at the door. All proceeds go to the RAO’s educational programming.
Future Space Nights:
Saturday, April 18
Saturday, May 9
Tickets sales start one month in advance of the event date. Please watch this webpage for updates and details.