A colour photograph of four young people gazing at the night sky.

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.

RAO Visitor Guide

Astronomers are experts on the properties of light. Telescopes have been developed to observe the different wave lengths of light across the electromagnetic spectrum. Dr. Jereon Stil will share his research in the Microwave Universe. He will be exploring the wavelength that revealed the cosmic microwave background and the scope of the universe. The sky tonight presentation by the RASC will help you discover what is in the winter 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 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 all evening as it moves across the southern sky.

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 February 21, 2026 – 7:30 p.m. to 10:30p.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.

Tickets available on Showpass January 21, noon