Is the human body built for Mars? Will interstellar travel ever be possible? What can studies on Earth and in space tell us about planetary exploration?

Join us and our sponsor, Durham Skies, for an evening of free public stargazing along the north shore of Lake Ontario at Millennium Square. Observe the Moon, Jupiter at its best, Saturn, even Uranus and Neptune and stars through our telescopes! Check out astronomy literature at our information booth, and ask us questions to learn more about the stars and planets. You can bring your own telescope and we'd be happy to help you set it up and aim it at the Moon.

In this profusely-illustrated non-technical presentation, learn how the universe is as amazing, wondrous, and awe-inspiring as anything you may encounter in science fiction or video games — and it's real! Lots of time for questions and discussion — on any aspect of astronomy that you wish! Led by John Percy, Professor Emeritus at the University of Toronto, in Astronomy & Astrophysics, and in Science Education. Drop-in. Call us at 416-393-7668 for more information.

The Origins Institute in partnership with the McMaster Alumni Association invite you to an online public lecture with Dr. Hari Kunduri, Associate Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. Tune in as Dr. Kunduri explains what exactly a black hole is, and how we have come to have a reasonable theoretical understanding of objects that cannot be seen or heard.

Stars vary in brightness due to a number of different astrophysical processes. We'll cover the main types, share some examples to monitor with unaided eyes, binoculars, and any size of telescope.

Spend the Fall Equinox with us by learning about the latest evidence in humanity's search for life in the universe. Scientists have a good understanding of the nature, origin, evolution, and diversity of life on earth. But is life "universal?" This non-technical, profusely-illustrated presentation will review the indirect evidence for life elsewhere in the universe, as well as the present and future methods for finding more direct evidence. Presented by John Percy, Professor Emeritus of Astronomy, University of Toronto.

Watch the recorded video: https://youtu.be/eF9wF1IHFdk

Astronomer Margaret Ikape takes us on a journey through the universe starting with known and familiar things on the Earth and then building up the scale to things in the solar system, the galaxy, the group of galaxies and then the observable universe.

Join us, from the comfort of your home! This program provides an illustrated one-hour presentation and discussion about what exciting celestial events to look for each season. The events and phenomena will be explained using simple language, with recommendations about how best to observe and photograph them.

This profusely-illustrated, non-technical talk will provide a gentle overview of astronomy by touching on a wide variety of common misconceptions.

Stars vary in brightness due to a number of different astrophysical processes. We'll cover the main types, share some examples to monitor in the summertime - with unaided eyes, binoculars, and any size of telescope.

Safely observe the Sun with us, from the comfort of your home! During these family-friendly sessions, a DDO Astronomer will answer your questions about our closest star: the Sun!