World Class Astronomy
With all the environmental concerns going on these days, we don't often think of the “Dark Sky' as a threatened space. The opportunity to see the constellations or even our very own galaxy is being threatened by light pollution. Light pollution is caused by unnecessary glare in urban and rural areas. Grasslands National Park is pleased to receive the designation of a Dark Sky Preserve. We will be working internally as well as with local communities to limit light pollution into the night sky. With the recent reintroduction of the black footed ferret, a nocturnal species, preserving the dark sky is becoming more important than ever before!
The Grasslands National Park Dark Sky Preserve is one of the largest and darkest in Canada! It is an excellent place to star gaze and to enjoy the beauty of the night sky. For astronomers, this is one of the best places to observe deep sky objects. Feel free to click on the links below for astronomy resources.
Starry Night © Robert Postma
Locations for Stargazing
West Block
East Block
Past Events:
East Block Star Party: Discover the Secrets of the Milky Way
To the naked eye, the Milky Way looks incredible from the darkness of Grasslands National Park! Come join the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada in exploring the Milky Way. Learn the stories of the constellations, check out a star cluster, catch a glimpse of a planet!
Date: May 28th, 2011
Details: High-Powered telescopes will be available for people to look through, please bring a pair of binoculars and a lawn chair if you have them. And don’t forget your warm clothes!
Cost: Free!
Please call 1-877-345-2257 for more information!
West Block Star Party: Jupiter Rising
Join the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada for a night of stargazing! Learn the names of the constellations, check out the rings on Saturn or zoom in on another galaxy! The highlight of the night will be to see Jupiter rising! Looking at Jupiter and its moons through a high powered telescope is one of the most beautiful sights!
Date: July 30th, 2011
Details: High-Powered telescopes will be available for people to look through, please bring a pair of binoculars and a lawn chair if you have them. And don’t forget your warm clothes!
Cost: Free!
Please call 1-877-345-2257 for more information!