Media Invitation - Join the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium experts in observing the transit of Mercury

MONTRÉAL, May 2, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - This May, Space for Life invites media representatives to join astronomy fans in observing the transit of the planet Mercury in front of the Sun. This rare astronomical phenomenon takes place on average only 13 times a century. This year it will be visible in its entirety in Québec: a first since 1960. Observation conditions look promising – so join us!

WHEN	May 9, 2016 – 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
	The phenomenon begins at 7:13 a.m. (Mercury will take three minutes and twelve seconds to cross the edge of the Sun); Throughout the day, the planet's progress will be tracked against the Sun; The phenomenon ends at 2:41 p.m.
WHERE	In front of the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, outside (4801 Avenue Pierre-De Coubertin / Paid parking / Métro Viau)
	In case of unfavorable weather conditions (entirely overcast sky, low ceiling, rain), observation may be temporarily suspended or cancelled, depending on circumstances. If in doubt, on May 9, before making the trip call 514 443-6801 (beginning at 6 a.m.).
WHAT	Observe a rare astronomical phenomenon and meet with our experts for everything there is to know!
TO KNOW	The activity is free and open to the general public. However, no shows will be taking place at the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, which currently is closed on Mondays.
ESSENTIAL	Should you wish to film the phenomenon, you will need magnifying optical instruments (50 to 100 times) equipped with a filter especially designed for safe observation of the Sun.
ATTENTION	The Sun should never be looked at directly, unless a specially designed filter is placed between the eyes and the Sun: there is a risk of permanent burns to the retina of the eye.

SOURCE Planétarium Rio Tinto Alcan

Marie-Joëlle Filion, Communications Officer, Telephone: [phone] 443-6801, Email: [email protected], Facebook.com/espacepourlavie, Twitter: #NatureDifferently@spaceforlife