Ontario Science Centre: International Astronomy Day
Join us as we celebrate International Astronomy Day with a fun-filled day – and night – of exciting programs and experiences for visitors of all ages. Head outdoors and try your hand at solar telescope observing. Meet the Canadian record holder for most spacewalks, astronaut Dr. Dave Williams. View the Earth from the International Space Station in the comfort of our IMAX® Dome theatre. And so much more – including a cluster of astronomy-themed pop up activities throughout the day. It’s an out-of-this-world experience you won’t want to miss!
Schedule of events:
Solar observing*
Safely observe the Sun with members of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada using specially filtered telescopes. Learn about our nearest star and try your eye at spotting exotic surface features, including sunspots, spicules, and prominences.
10:00am – 12:00pm
TELUSCAPE
Meet Canadian Space Agency astronaut Dr. Dave Williams
Join former CSA astronaut Dr. Dave Williams as he takes an informative and engaging look at becoming an astronaut. Dr. Dave will also be launching his latest children’s book Go for Liftoff!: How to train like an astronaut followed by a Q&A and book signing.
10:30am and 2:30pm
Hot Zone, Level 6
Planetarium Shows
Sit back in Toronto's only public planetarium as a Live Presenter takes you on a fantastic voyage to the Moon, the Solar System or beyond!
- Eyes on the Skies (for children 5 years and younger): 11:00am
- Extreme Universe: 1:00pm
- The Sky Tonight: 3:30pm and 5:30pm
Space Hall, Level 4
Visions of Science Celebration
Take in science-fair style presentations from youth across the GTA as 19 student clubs make their best science presentations in the hopes of being this year’s Visions of Science award winner.
1:45pm – 2:45pm
Carlton Cards Mezzanine, Level 1
A Beautiful Planet IMAX® film
Providing a unique perspective and increased understanding of our planet and galaxy as never seen before, A Beautiful Planet features stunning footage of our magnificent blue planet – and the effects humanity has had on it over time – captured by the astronauts aboard the International Space Station.
12:00pm and 6:00pm
OMNIMAX® Theatre, Level 2
Evening Star Party*
Observe the stars via telescope with members of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. Witness the crescent Moon and Jupiter along with lively activities and demonstrations in this universally enlightening – and free – evening. In the event of inclement weather, Evening Star Party activities will proceed indoors in the Telus Conference Room.
7:30pm – 10:30pm
TELUSCAPE
* Telescope observing is weather permitting.
Who can attend: Everyone
Fee: International Astronomy Day programs and activities are included with regular admission. Please note: There is an additional fee for IMAX® admission. Parking is available for $10 per vehicle ($5 per vehicle for OSC members).
Registration: Not required
Organized by: Ontario Science Centre and RASC - Toronto Centre
Location: Ontario Science Centre