Media Advisory - International Astronomy Day at the Ontario Science Centre May 11

TORONTO, May 9, 2019 /CNW/ - Calling all sun observers, planet lovers and star watchers!   Come join us on May 11 at the Ontario Science Centre to celebrate International Astronomy Day, with a fun-filled day – and night -- of exciting programs and experiences for visitors of all ages.  Head outside and try your hand at solar telescope observing.  Learn all about black holes from Dr. Ue-Li Pen a renowned astrophysicist. If you're interested learning more about telescopes, experts will be on hand to show you the different types and much more!

We will be celebrating with a cluster of astronomy-themed activities throughout the day. It's an out-of-this-world experience you won't want to miss!

Please call for Interview Opportunities on May 11:
Dr. Rachel Ward-Maxwell, Researcher-Programmer, Astronomy and Space Sciences,
Ontario Science Centre
Dr. Ue-Li Pen, Acting Director of Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics
Star Party starts at 7 p.m.:
Frank Dempsey, amateur astronomer with RASC
Dr. Diana Valencia, assistant professor at U of T Scarborough

Solar observing*
When:	10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Where:	TELUSCAPE
What:	Enjoy close-up views of our nearest star! Safely observe the Sun with members of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Toronto Centre using specially filtered telescopes. Learn about our nearest star and try your eye at spotting exotic surface features, including sunspots, spicules and prominences.

Ask an Astronomer
When:	1 p.m.
Where:	HOT ZONE, Level 6
What:	Learn all about black holes from Dr. Ue-Li Pen from the Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics.

Try a Telescope
When:	2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Where:	STUDIO 2, Level 2
What:	Have you just bought—or are thinking of purchasing—a telescope? Learn about the different types of telescopes and how to use them from experts from the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Toronto Centre

IMAX^® film: Journey To Space^+
When:	12:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Where:	OMNIMAX THEATRE, Level 2
What:	Buckle your seatbelts and get ready to see the major strides NASA is taking to send humankind to Mars within a generation. Consider a future where humans can live and operate in space. Learn how space experts are turning science fiction dreams into reality.

Evening Star Party*
When:	7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Where:	TELUSCAPE
What:	Experience astronomical proportions of fun for the whole family at our first Star Party of 2019! Observe the night sky,* create a comet, tour the universe with NASA's Eyes and hear from experts in space science. Witness the Moon and Mars along with lively activities and demonstrations in this universally enlightening—and free—evening. Speakers include Frank Dempsey (Constellation Legends of Indigenous North America) and Dr. Diana Valencia (Other Places We Can Call Home).

* Telescope observing is weather permitting.

+International Astronomy Day programs and activities are included with regular admission.  The Evening Star Party is free, even to those who didn't pay regular admission during the day, but parking is extra.  Please note: There is also an additional fee for IMAX^® admission.

Ontario Science Centre
770 Don Mills Road, Toronto, ON
Please enter via main lobby doors. TV crews may enter at the security entrance via Gateway Blvd

SOURCE Ontario Science Centre

Anna Relyea, Director, Strategic Communications, 416-696-3273 | c: 416-668-1967, [email protected]

Related Links

www.ontariosciencecentre.ca