DDO Introduction to Astronomy (CANCELLED)

Each Thursday from April 11, 2019 to May 16, 2019

This six week introductory-level course is designed for new astronomers. Participants will gain a basic understanding of the objects in the day and night sky, will learn how to observe these objects and will gain an introductory knowledge of the Universe formation and expansion. The lessons will be augmented by observing sessions (weather permitting). Please wear/bring appropriate supplies for being outdoors.

Week 1 (April 11): Introduction to RASC and Astronomy, overview of the course, astronomy history and "Canada in Space."

Week 2 (April 18): Sun, Earth, Moon, tides, eclipses, our Solar System, the Planets, meteor showers, and comets.

Week 3 (April 25): Stars, distances, magnitude, learning the night sky, constellations. planispheres, coordinate systems, astronomy (planetarium) software, with a brief demo of Stellarium.

Week 4 (May 2): Milky Way, deep sky objects, nebulae, star clusters, galaxy formation and types of galaxies. How to observe galaxies and galaxy clusters. Astro-sketching. Introduction to Messier and RASC observing programs.

Week 5 (May 9): Astronomy gear, binoculars, telescope types, selection and use, observing logs, equipment, observing sites, more drawing skills.

Week 6 (May 16): Cosmology, black holes, dark matter, universe formation, and an introduction to light pollution and urban astronomy. Course wrap up.

Who can attend: Ages 12 and older
Fee for up to 14 years old: $120.00
Fee for 15 or more years old: $135.60
Tickets: ActiveRH
Organized by: RASC - Toronto Centre
Location: David Dunlap Observatory (DDO)