Annual CAO Open House and Picnic
You and your family are cordially invited to attend the 16th Annual E.C. Carr Astronomical Observatory (CAO) Open House and RASC Toronto Centre Awards Picnic on Saturday, June 1, 2013. With ample shelter available in the house and observatory this is a rain or shine event so plan to be a part of it.
This is a great opportunity to network and socialize with your fellow members; tour the Geoff Brown Observatory with its C14 on a Paramount mount, admire recent improvements to the house and grounds; enjoy a family picnic in the country; and take part in the traditional model rocket launches (and hopefully retrievals). This year mark's the 16th Anniversary of the CAO and special treats are in store!
As is an OHAP tradition, there will be excellent door prizes and a raffle for even more prizes - including software, equipment, clothing, kid's prizes and more.
A bonfire with toasted marshmallows will also be held for family members. If skies permit, we will do some excellent dark-sky observing in a safe and friendly environment.
The RASC Toronto Centre Awards Presentation will begin at about 4:00 p.m., but you are welcome to arrive any time. Rocket launches may take place before or after the presentations, depending on the weather and winds. This year will see the addition of many more family friendly activities such an interpretive guided hike on the Bruce Trail, kite flying and crafts for kids.
The Centre will provide refreshments and snack foods (chips, pretzels, etc.). Various salads or other summer foods and desserts to add to the communal table are appreciated. Don't forget to bring along something to grill on the huge barbecue that will be available for your use!
Bring your favourite lawn chair to get comfortable out of doors. Also bring sunscreen and bug repellant. For heaven's sake, bring warm clothing!
If you wish to join the interpretive hike on the 3.4 kilometre (~2 hour) Margaret Paull Bruce Trail hike that circles our property, please arrive ahead of the group departure time of 12 noon sharp. Please note that as availability for the guided hike is limited and you must indicate on your CAO Bookings Form the number of persons attending.
Bring your telescopes and binoculars for after dark observing but don't worry if you don't have any of your own, our astronomers are happy to share the view!
To attend the OHAP, please use the CAO Bookings form (user ID and password required) even if you do not plan to stay the night. This is so we may adequately prepare drinks and snacks. There is lots of room for tents and even a few RVs, but space in the house is limited and will be allocated on a best available basis. Please note there is no charge to attend or stay overnight during the Open House event.
See our CAO directions and map page for updated downloadable, printable files. Be mindful of GPS directions and those issued by Google Maps as the 18th Sideroad is impassable east of the CAO property.
We look forward to seeing you at the CAO! :-)
Charles Darrow
President
RASC, Toronto Centre