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Mactaquac Camping and Observing Weekend
July 25 – July 26
Come join members of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada for our annual Camping and Observing (COW) event at Mactaquac Provincial Park.
Several telescopes will be set-up on Friday and Saturday nights, to allow the public to view the wonders of the night sky. Weather permitting, we’ll be able to see various star clusters, galaxies, and nebulae.
Preceding the evening observation sessions, there will be a presentation where you can learn about the night sky wonders that can be observed that evening.
During Saturday afternoon, drop by to take a close-up view of the sun through our safe solar-filtered telescopes. Bring along your telescope for a free set and tuning. If you need instructions on operation, there will be amateur astronomers on hand to guide you through the use and set-up of your telescope.
For Visitors
The star party activities are free and open to the public, however, you must have a pass to enter the park. If you want to camp overnight, you’ll need to book a campsite with the park by calling 1-800-561-0123, or by reserving online.
For Volunteer Astronomers
Instructions for registering will be sent via the internal RASC NB mailing list.
Schedule
Friday
8pm
“What’s Up?” presentation
Come learn about the wonders of the night sky you’ll be seeing through the telescopes.
Overnight
Night sky viewing with telescopes
Come look through our telescopes and enjoy the views (weather permitting).
Saturday
1pm to 3pm
Solar Observing
Come take a close look at our nearest star, the sun (weather permitting).
1pm to 3pm
Telescope Clinic
Bring your telescope for a free set and tuning.
8pm
“What’s Up?” presentation
Come learn about the wonders of the night sky you’ll be seeing through the telescopes.
Overnight
Night sky viewing with telescopes
Come look through our telescopes and enjoy the views (weather permitting).
Park Location
Mactaquac Provincial Park is located along Route 105, west of Fredericton, New Brunswick.
View Larger Map
Observing Site
To be determined