SkyHunt: July/ August 2001

Your guide to Summer star parties in Ontario

Star parties are outdoor “conventions” for amateur astronomers and the general public interested in finding out more about the wonders of space. Participating in one of these events is perhaps the best way to introduce you and your family to some amazing sights in the night sky, meet interesting astronomers and enjoy the great outdoors. Below are some highlights of this year’s events around Ontario and the GTA:

Huronia Star Party 2001
August 10-12
One of the mainstays of the Ontario summer stargazing circuit. Fun presentations and sights to thrill beginners and pros alike. Guest speakers will talk about everything from cold weather observing to Canadarm2 to eclipse-gazing abroad.

Starfest 2001
August 16-18
The largest star party in Canada, Starfest attracts more than 900 stargazers annually. Activities for 2001 include observing sessions, formal and informal presentations, workshops, commercial exhibits, and a children's program. This year's theme, “The Universe: A Spectrum of Light", looks at how astronomers use a wide array of devices to probe the mysteries of the universe.

The Great Manitou Star Party
August 21-25
A family-oriented astronomy festival on Manitoulin Island for amateurs from novice to advanced. The event takes place in a beautiful wilderness setting where guests have an opportunity to learn, explore and relax. Events include campfire music, story-telling, a geology walk-and-talk and an astrophotography workshop.

EfstonScience regular observing sessions
Summer and Early Fall 2001
For many years, EfstonScience has hosted regular stargazing nights for its clients and the general public looking to get into astronomy – once or even twice a month in the summer. These weather-permitting observing sessions at the Palgrave Conservation Area – 10 km north of Bolton, ON – are free and one of the best ways to "test drive" a telescope before buying one.