Come join us on April 29th at the Ontario Science Centre to celebrate International Astronomy Day, with a fun-filled day – and night — of exciting programs and experiences for visitors of all ages.  Head outdoors and try your hand at solar telescope observing.  Meet the Canadian record holder for most spacewalks, astronaut Dr. Dave Williams. View the Earth from the International Space Station in the comfort of our IMAX® Dome theatre.  And so much more – including a cluster of astronomy-themed pop up activities throughout the day.  It’s an out-of-this-world experience you won’t want to miss!

We will be enjoying the magic of the universe with a roster of events, including:

Meet Canadian Space Agency astronaut Dr. Dave Williams 

When: 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Where: Weston Family Innovation Centre, HOT ZONE, Level 6
What: Join former CSA astronaut Dr. Dave Williams as he takes an informative and engaging look at becoming an astronaut. Dr. Dave will also be launching his latest children’s book Go for Liftoff!: How to Train Like an Astronaut followed by a Q&A and book signing with co-author Loredana Cunti.

A Beautiful Planet IMAX film+

When: 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Where: OMNIMAX THEATRE
What: Providing a unique perspective and increased understanding of our planet and galaxy as never seen before, A Beautiful Planet features stunning footage of our magnificent blue planet — and the effects humanity has had on it over time — captured by the astronauts aboard the International Space Station.

Evening Star Party

When: 7:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Where: TELUSCAPE
What: Observe the stars via telescopes with members of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.  Witness the crescent Moon and Jupiter along with lively activities and demonstrations in this universally enlightening evening. (In the event of inclement weather, Evening Star Party activities will proceed indoors in the Telus Conference Room.) Telescope observing is weather permitting.

International Astronomy Day programs and activities are included with regular admission.  The Evening Star Party is free, even to those who didn’t pay regular admission during the day, but parking is extra.  Please note: There is also an additional fee for IMAX® admission.

LOCATION: 

Ontario Science Centre
770 Don Mills Road, Toronto, ON

Please enter via main lobby doors. TV crews may enter at the back of the Science Centre at the security entrance via Gateway Blvd.

For further information: Media contacts: Anna Relyea, Director, Strategic Communications, 416-696-3273 | c: 416-668-1967, Anna.Relyea@osc.on.ca; Jefferson Darrell, Media Relations Officer, 416-696-3154, Jefferson.Darrell@osc.on.ca; Amanda Blitz, Media Relations Officer, 416-696-4578, Amanda.Blitz@osc.on.ca