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

August 5, 2019 – Kaleden, British Columbia – National Research Council of Canada

Media and the public are invited to the National Research Council of Canada’s (NRC) 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 80 meteors per hour.

Astronomers Ken Tapping, Tom Landecker, Alex Hill, Tony Willis and Mark Garstin 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 NRC astronomers, take photos, and observe the meteor shower through telescopes provided by The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada’s Okanagan Centre.

Date:           Monday, August 12, 2019

Time:           7:15 pm PT (Gates Open)
                     8:00 pm / 9:30 pm PT (Astronomers-led talks with questions and answers)
                     9:30 pm / 11:00 pm PT (Optimal meteor viewing)

Location:    Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory
                     717 White Lake Road
                     Kaleden, British Columbia

Notes for media:

Media representatives wishing to cover the event are asked to confirm their attendance by Friday, August 9, 2019, at 1 pm PT