Join the Peterborough Astronomical Association (PAA)  and the Otonabee Region Conservation Authority (ORCA), for a viewing of both the Sun and the stars at this unique event on August 11th, from 8-10pm at the Harold Town Conservation Area, west of Peterborough on the Old Norwood Road.  Participants will have the opportunity to safely view the sun using equipment provided by the PAA members, and then after sunset enjoy the night sky away from the City lights. Suitable for all ages, all equipment provided.  Weather dependant – clear skies required.

So, What's up?:

The Sun is now well into the "quiet" part of the of the eleven year sunspot cycle which is expected to hit minimum in 2020 so the chances of seeing any sunspots is low. However there is always the possibility that some prominences will appear, shooting out from the side of the Sun!

The Moon is “new” on August 11th. so this will be a moonless night, perfect for looking at the planets and for spotting some early Perseid Meteors in the northern sky.

Venus shines brightly low in the West, setting at 10pm.. The disk of Venus is about half illuminated.

Jupiter is shining brightly in the South West at 10 pm. There will be many opportunities to observe its four brightest moons through a telescope.

Saturn will be visible high in the South at 10pm. The rings are favourably positioned for viewing and should be clearly visible in a telescope. Saturn is in a very rich area of the sky in northern Sagittarius.

Mars will shine brightly in the South East as darkness falls and will be clearly visible all night.

If you have questions about astronomy or about telescopes please, come and talk to our members. We will be there from 8 pm until very much later.

Weather permitting of course. Come out and enjoy.

Family Sunday Activity: Yarn Bomb – Engage, discover, and create every Sunday afternoon from 1–3PM. We will be making our own street art using YARN! We will bring colour and art to the space outside of the gallery. Free. $5 Suggested Material Donation per family. Children must be accompanied by an adult.