Visitor's Guide

Welcome to the RAO. We are only open to the public during special events. Please read below for information on visiting the site.

All events are ticketed. You must have a pre-purchased ticket to access the RAO site.
Events will run whether it is clear or cloudy. Our buildings will be open, astronomers will be on hand to answer questions, and there will be terrific talks.
Check the weather. If the sky is cloudy, or if there is too much humidity, our telescopes will not be in use. Our SkyWatch page offers resources to guide you in planning your visit. You can also check Instagram or Facebook for updates.
During special events the gates are open 15 minutes before event start time, until the scheduled end.
Tickets are $10 per person. The link to purchase tickets is on the event page.

The observatory site is kept very dark. Due to the rural environment, the ground can be uneven. Please take your time and watch your step.
Flashlights are welcome, but they should be directed toward the ground. This helps everyone move safely without affecting views of the sky.
The buildings onsite are wheelchair accessible. Accessible parking spaces are available close to the Interpretive Centre.
Public events at the RAO are family friendly. But please note that telescope viewing and activities are geared towards those eight years old and up.
If you have any concerns about accessibility, please contact us.

Be prepared to spend time outdoors. Dress for the weather. It can be colder here than in the city. So, wear an extra layer or two, even in summer.
There are telescopes inside and outside the observatory buildings. Please avoid touching them while looking through the lens. The smallest bump will change a telescope's alignment.
You can talk with astronomers about what you see and what you should be looking for. We love your questions!
We want to help you get the most out of your visit. If you have general questions or concerns, please bring them to the front desk in the Interpretive Centre. Our knowledgeable staff and volunteers can provide assistance.

Flashlights are welcome at the RAO. Red light is preferred as it does not affect the telescopes and allows you to maintain your night vision. If you have a white light flashlight, please keep it pointed down.
No flash photography is allowed inside the domes or on the terrace.

Parking is limited. We encourage you to carpool.
Do not park along the highway. This is very dangerous, and the RCMP may issue parking tickets.
Once over the cattle gate, drive up the hill and go right at the fork in the road. The parking lot is one-way. An attendant will direct you to an available space.
We will do our best to ensure that you have a safe and fun visitor experience at the RAO.

Planning your visit