Written by Deborah Simpson, Vancouver Club Leader
On a clear and fresh spring evening, we went “Sky Gazing” at Kitsilano Beach Park with astronomy enthusiast Justin Lee. Justin set up his telescope (Meade 10″ ACF) allowing us to explore the night sky. We started at dusk by looking at the rising moon. It was exciting to see the moon’s features up close, such as mountains, craters, rills (small streams), valleys and trenches. Craters, caused by the impact of asteroids and meteorites, can be as small as 6.5 kms and as large as 1100 kms, and they all have names! For example, crater Mare Imbrium was created over 3 billion years ago. Due to the massive impact, the Montes (mountains) Apenninus range was formed, which we were able to see. Personally, I will never look at the moon the same way again! Venus and Mars were also visible. Venus is always covered by thick clouds, so no surface features can be seen. Through the telescope it looks like a small white blob; however, through the naked eye it is one of the brightest objects in the night sky.
Justin loves to show people the planets, moon, and stars. He sets up at various places in Metro
Vancouver, most often at the Pier at the Shipyards District in North Vancouver. You can follow
his activities here. He would be happy to see you at any of his locations. For kids who like to
stay up late, check out Starry Nights. On clear Friday nights, astronomy enthusiasts amass at
SFU and share their telescopes with the public. The Trottier Observatory is also open.
Experience Explorer Days with your family, learn about nature and receive a free subscription to NatureWild!