Royal Astronomical Society of Canada hosts Carp star party July 18

CARP – An underground museum’s parking lot seems like a strange place to see the stars, but the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada – Ottawa Centre (RASC) will tell you it’s the best view around. Don’t take their word for it, see for yourself tomorrow (July 18) night.

The RASC will be bringing their incredible telescopes out to the Carp branch of the Ottawa Public Library parking (3911 Carp Rd.) lot Friday, July 18 if the clouds cooperate, and you’re invited to have a peek.

“Join us for our free public star gazing night,” the RASC released in a statement. “Come experience the wonders of the night sky at the Carp Branch of the Ottawa Public Library.”

Just show up, and the RASC will look after everything else.

“No telescope or binoculars?” the RASC said. “No problem, just bring your curiosity. Look through our telescopes and explore the moon, Mars, stars, star clusters, and even distant galaxies — all guided by knowledgeable members of RASC Ottawa Centre.”

Stop by the RASC’s information booth to check out astronomy literature, grab some freebies like star finders, moon maps, stickers, and more.

“Feel free to ask questions,” the RASC said. “We’re always happy to share our love for the stars and planets.” 

Dress warmly, as it can get chilly after sunset, even in warmer months. Check for weather updates.

“Before heading out, please visit our website for a GO/NO-GO update based on the weather,” the RASC said. “We typically make the call a few hours before the event, but if conditions worsen unexpectedly, we may need to cancel or end early. We’ll do our best to post updates, but please use your best judgment when deciding to attend.”

New to stargazing? Not sure how to “party with the stars?”

Check out the RASC’s quick guide here:  https://www.ottawa.rasc.ca/…/how-to-party-with-the-stars/.

“We look forward to seeing you under the stars,” the RASC said.

The event is scheduled for about three hours following the setting of the sun Friday, July 18 starting roughly around 9 p.m.

Despite the reference to the Diefenbunker Museum at the start of the story, the RASC asks you do not park in the lot located just outside the museum’s front doors.

“Please do not use the Diefenbunker Museum parking lot,” the RASC said. “Although it is nearby, their gates are locked after hours, and vehicles can get stuck inside, sometimes requiring police assistance to exit. We ask all members and guests to only use the Ottawa Public Library parking area.”

If you have your own telescope, bring it along.

“Do you have a telescope but are having trouble using it?” the RASC said. “Bring it along 90 minutes before sunset to set up equipment and our members can help diagnose any problems and get you started.”

To check on the latest update on the Star Party based on weather, visit their Facebook page here.

West Carleton Online reporter Nonie Smart went to a Carp star party last fall and you can read here story here.