The Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory is the best location in the Okanagan Valley to view the Perseid meteor shower

Media advisory

Kaleden, British Columbia — August 2, 2018 — Media and the public are invited to the Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory to take in unobstructed views of the annual Perseid meteor shower. This is one of the most spectacular meteor events to regularly occur, where it is common to see eighty meteors per hour.

Astronomers Ken Tapping, Roland Kothes, Tom Landecker, Chris Purton, and Tim Robishaw will guide guests’ observations with enlightening talks. The Royal Astronomical Society will provide telescopes for public use. For comfortable skygazing, a blanket or lawn chair and warm clothing is recommended. Grounds will remain open and talks will continue should inclement weather (e.g., clouds, smoke) alter the quality of meteor and telescope viewing.

Media representatives will have the opportunity to speak with National Research Council of Canada astronomers, take photos, and observe the meteor shower through telescopes provided by The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada’s Okanagan Centre.

Media representatives wishing to cover the event are asked to confirm their attendance by Friday, August 10, 2018, at 1 p.m. PT.

Date: Saturday, August 11, 2018 
Time: 7:15 p.m. PT (Gates open)
          8:00 - 9:30 p.m. PT (Astronomer-led talks with questions and answers)
          9:30 - 11:00 p.m. PT (Optimal meteor viewing)
Location: Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory
717 White Lake Road
Kaleden, British Columbia (16 kilometres south of Penticton)

Contacts

Media Relations
National Research Council of Canada
613-991-1431
1-855-282-1637
media@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Follow us on Twitter:
@nrc_cnrc

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