As theoretical physicist Lawrence Krauss once put, we are all made of stardust. As poetic as that sounds, it's scientifically based on the fact that every atom in our bodies came from an exploded star.
This Saturday, April 27, at Simon Fraser University, the Vancouver branch of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada is hosting a series of special events for Astronomy Day, highlighting our connection to the universe.
"It's been something we've been doing for as long as I can remember. It's our largest event of the year," said Suzanna Nagy, vice-president of the astronomical society's Vancouver chapter. "It is geared towards children and families, so this isn't a scientific event. It's very much geared to the people who have a general appreciation or love of astronomy."
The lineup includes lectures, educational displays, fun
activities for kids and a chance to look at the skies through telescopes, all accessible to people who have a beginner-level understanding of astronomy.
Starting in the south hallway of the academic quadrangle, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., there will be vendor displays, mobile planetarium shows by Canadian Telescopes, a solar telescope station, a physics station, astronomy bingo and more.
There will also be lectures on various subjects, including the moon, the Russian and Chinese space programs and the history of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada,
At 7 p.m., astronomer John Nemy will give a lecture titled "We are Dancing with the Stars," followed by an opportunity to look at the night sky through telescopes, weather permitting. Nemy's presentation will be in lecture theatre C9001 in the academic quadrangle.
Admission for all events is free, but those driving to campus will need to pay for parking.
