University of Calgary
School Groups
The Universe is Calling...
Answer it at the RAO with programs that explore sky science, light, optics and space exploration. We are your guide to the universe with programs that are offered during the day or in the evening. Visit our observatory and see science in action at a research facility or via video conference for a virtual tour. We are offering Grade Six, Grade Eight, Grade Nine and Senior High Sky Science Programs which are all directly linked to Alberta Learning Science curriculum.
Grade Six
'Looking for Goldilocks in the Celestial Forest'
Learn about our own solar system when we compare it to the solar systems orbiting distance stars.
‘The Earth is a ball’
Discover how living on a sphere gives us an incredible view of the universe. We cover the concepts of declination, right ascension, longitude and latitude.
'The one, the only, the original, the Moon'
Explore the unique characteristics of earth’s moon including phases, orbit and gravitational effects. Compare and contrast to learn more about our moon when looking at other moons in our solar system.
Grade Eight
‘The Science of Light’
Investigate the properties of light and discover how light
moves through optical telescopes. Build a refracting
telescope and compare its design and perspective with
the design of other telescopes.
Grade Nine
‘Space Exploration’
Learning about the composition of our universe and the technologies used to
conduct the latest research.
‘How Far Away is it’
Answer the most basic question in astronomical research
with stellar parallax and the doppler effect then perform
your own measurements with triangulation.
Evening Programs at the Observatory
We offer your students the chance to observe the night sky. The presentation programs are also offered in the evening. You can book your class or arrange a family night for students to come with their families.
Video Conference Program
Bring the observatory and an astronomer to your classroom. The RAO is offering programs via video conference equipment. The program involves interaction with a University of Calgary Astronomer and views of the observatory and telescopes.
All of our programs are a direct connect to the Alberta Learning Curriculum.
To learn more about the RAO and our school programs, please contact Jennifer Howse (403) 931-2366, or email jhowse@phas.ucalgary.ca
To learn more about University of Calgary Physics and Astronomy, please visit our teaching and research page.