One of Cochrane’s most popular astronomical events is heading back to town this week.
The fourth annual A Night with the Stars lands at the Cochrane Public Library this Friday, Oct. 2.
The free event is put on alongside the Calgary Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.
Carmen Erison, program and engagement manager at the library, says excitement is already building for the drop-in night.
“This event is truly for everyone,” Erison says. “Families, teens, kids, adults, seniors, experienced stargazers, and people who are just simply curious.”
She says you definitely don’t need to be an expert to drop by and have fun.
“No astronomy background is needed,” Erison says. “You just need to bring your curiosity and enjoy an evening under the stars.”
From outdoor telescope viewing to hands-on space activities inside, A Night with the Stars returns to the Cochrane Public Library this Friday. Photos provided.
What to expect
The event runs from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. right across the library, with no registration required.
Because the travelling planetarium is a bit worse for wear, organizers are levelling up the other activities inside and out instead.
“We’re ramping up all the other activities in the library in replacement of that planetarium,” Erison says.
You can check out space-themed challenges, crafts, colouring sheets, and cool presentations on the night sky.
Hands-on telescope viewing
Out in the parking lot, members of the Royal Astronomical Society will set up telescopes for public viewing.
Erison says past crowds have scored awesome shots of Saturn, the moon, and distant stars.
“Looking through a telescope and seeing the moon, planets, or distant stars for yourself is a completely different experience,” she says.
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“It helps spark imagination and helps remind us that there’s always more to discover.”
Remember to bundle up, as parts of the event take place outdoors.