City Star Party: Long Branch - April 2026 - Explore the Moon
April 25, 2026 or April 26 2026 (first clear night weather permitting)
NOTE Recommended arrival/setup is between 7:30 and 8:00 PM.
The 2025 Fall equinox occurs on September 22nd at 2:20pm EST, marking the day when we experience roughly the same amount of daytime and nighttime.
Amateur moon observing is highly rewarding, even from light polluted areas, with the naked eye, binoculars or small telescope. Best viewing of the moon occurs during crescent or gibbous phases along the terminator when the shadows are long, highlighting crater textures and mountain ranges, rather than the full moon.
Join us at the lake This is your chance to learn about moon features, hone observing skills and maybe even earn a RASC Explore the Moon - Binocular or RASC Explore the Moon - Telescope certificate. Additional resources are found here:
Explore the Moon—an introductory lunar observing program
Star Finders and Moon Gazer Guides will be available to aid observing and to take home.
Do note:
- The temperature can be cooler at the lakeshore, especially if there's a breeze off the water. So bring warmer clothes including something windproof.
Check our homepage for GO/NO-GO calls as these events are weather dependent.
Please note that we make our GO/NO-GO calls a few hours before an event but, if the weather worsens, we may have to cancel or wrap up earlier than planned. We'll try to post updates but please use your best judgment if you're planning to join us.
Who can attend: Everyone
Fee: Free
Registration: Not required
Organized by: RASC, Toronto Centre
Location: Long Branch Park, near the gazebo
Directions:
- There is free street parking along Lake Promenade.
- The 507 streetcar runs from Humber loop. Exit at Long Branch Ave. & walk south to Lake Promenade.
- Buses to Long Branch loop (123B and 123C from Kipling, 110A from Islington).
- There is also GO transit to Long Branch station.