International Astronomy Day events scheduled for May 2, 2020 are not all being put on hold — some are being put online.
While we may not be able to congregate in person, the ability to meet virtually will allow anyone anywhere to view the skies and participate in events this year.
If you’re looking for something to do, here’s a brief list of events occurring across Canada. Are you holding an online event? Send an email to editor@skynews.ca and we’ll add it to the post.
Ottawa, Ontario
The RASC Ottawa Centre and Ottawa Valley Astronomy & Observer’s Group are joining forces to hold a virtual event Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. EDT.
Weather permitting, astro-video camera views from OAOG and RASC Ottawa Centre members’ backyard telescopes will be streamed live throughout the day. Live camera views of the Sun, Moon and Venus will be shown, as well as other deep-sky objects.
In addition to the live telescope views, members will be giving presentations throughout the day on astronomy-related topics — like telescopes and mounts, observing with a smartphone and astrophotography.
For more information please go to the Astro Day Ottawa website. There you can find the schedule of activities, free astronomy related materials, and any last-minute changes to the event. To attend the event, you are required to pre-register using the link found on the website. Alternatively, there will be a link to a Youtube live stream posted on the website on Saturday morning.
Toronto, Ontario
On Friday, May 1 at 2 p.m. EDT, the Ontario Science Centre is holding a stellar Facebook Live event. Astronomers Simon Chang, Cailin Gallinger, Sara Mazrouei and Rachel Ward-Maxwell will be talking about the night sky — from the Moon and planets to stargazing tips to celestial trivia. Click here for more details from The RASC Toronto Centre.
Winnipeg, Manitoba
On May 2, 1-10 p.m. CDT, the Manitoba Museum is really getting into the spirit of International Astronomy Day. Join them for an afternoon of online presentations and hands-on activities — like making a sky clock!
As the Sun sets, get ready to spend your evening at their online Telescope Party. They are also scheduled to have a star tour of the constellations hosted by senior planetarium producer Scott Young.
For more details, check out the Manitoba Museum’s website or visit their Facebook page.
More online events
Check out The RASC’s website for more online seminars and events that are being held while we’re all stuck in isolation.
