Rothney Astrophysical Observatory event to celebrate 50th anniversary of the moon landing

“That's one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.”

Astronaut Neil Armstrong’s famous words, spoken on July 20, 1969, are forever etched in history as synonymous with one of the 20th century’s greatest endeavours of science and engineering — the lunar landing.

To commemorate the 50th anniversary of this amazing accomplishment, the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory (RAO) is hosting a special daytime event featuring presentations and family-focused activities that celebrate one of humanity’s greatest achievements.

Guest speakers will present fascinating talks that look back and look forward in our exploration of our celestial neighbour, the moon.

“The Apollo 11 commemoration at the RAO is happening 50 years to the minute of when the lander spacecraft called the Eagle touched down on the moon,” says Jennifer Howse, education specialist at the RAO. “The event is a party complete with a bouncy house, rockets and moon themed karaoke designed for family fun on a Saturday afternoon, but also a chance to gather a remember that exciting time when the space race to humanity to the moon and back”

The program will feature speakers from the Faculty of Science, the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC)-Calgary Centre, and special guest CBC’s Starman Don Hladiuk, who will present a breakdown of the lunar mission. Joel Powell of the RASC will exhibit his amazing image collection presenting the ramp up to lift-off.

Family fun activities include moon music, rockets, solar observing, lunar science fiction, and much more.

A limited number of tickets are available for the event. The link to purchase tickets can be found on the RAO website.