When we observe the universe we see light from stars, gas and galaxies, but this makes up merely 4% of the universe. We think that a much larger fraction of the universe is made up of “dark matter,” which is invisible and only interacts through gravity. Dark matter is critical to how all the galaxies we see evolve, but the nature of dark matter is still a mystery. This talk tells the story of how the Dragonfly Telephoto Array, a compound-lens telescope with a revolutionary design that enables it to image faint, diffuse structures, is attempting to understand dark matter.

Join scientists from McMaster University’s Physics and Astronomy Department for an entertaining night filled with scientific discussion, trivia, and beer. At Science on Tap, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with researchers in various scientific fields as they present some of science’s most intriguing phenomena. There will be plenty of time to ask questions while the scientists are on stage, or afterwards over cold pints. Come try this educational twist on a night out at the pub. Admission is FREE! Doors open at 7pm, event starts at 8pm.

For thousands of years, people have gazed up at the sky without realizing its hidden secrets: that most of the stuff out in space cannot be seen with our eyes! It is only in the last 100 years or so, with the use of new instruments like radio telescopes, we have begun to reveal this invisible universe. Dr. Jennifer West will discuss some of the things that we hope to learn and also the challenges and possible new technologies that come with it. Drop-in program. First come, first seated.

Director Alison McAlpine's sublime non-fiction film takes us to Chile's Atacama Desert, one of the best places on our planet to explore and contemplate the splendour of the night sky.

We are living in an incredible time in the life of the universe! Dr. Renée Hložek talks about the mysterious contents of the universe, including dark energy and dark matter and how they shape how our universe as it evolves with time.

This weekend tour introduces families to the wonders of astronomy through an indoor planetarium experience, craft activities for younger visitors and stargazing. Visitors will spend time in both the main building and observatory visiting the 1.88m (74") telescope, learning its history and getting to see celestial objects firsthand (weather permitting).

Solar System Social is a space-themed speaker series that brings exciting ideas and research from the field of planetary science to the general public.This special event will be a panel discussion on the ethics, logistics, and politics of who deserves to explore space.

This weekend program provides visitors with an opportunity to listen to an astronomy talk and enjoy stargazing. Visitors will spend time in both the main building and observatory visiting the 1.88m (74") telescope, learning its history and getting to see celestial objects firsthand (weather permitting).

In July 2015, the New Horizons spacecraft flew past Pluto, photographing the last unexplored major body in our solar system. Taking over 25 years from its original conception to its phenomenal photographic fly-by, New Horizons upended the space industry. We will explore the story behind the most unlikely expedition into our solar system, the development of the mission from scrap paper to the spacecraft itself.

Last year we introduced Soapbox Science to North America and we couldn’t be more excited for this year’s Toronto event! Our organizing team is preparing for another fabulous day in September at Toronto’s Word on the Street Festival. What better way to promote science in the streets than at a literacy street festival? Last year we engaged hundreds of families along Toronto’s Harbourfront; they were surprised and delighted to have the chance to meet our scientists in person and learn about their research.