Global “Earth Hour” to hit Peterborough

Saturday, March 29 citizens of the world are invited to band together to take part in an experiment.  The public, especially in urban areas, is being asked to turn off all non-essential outdoor lights at 8 p.m. local time.  The goals of this global initiative are to educate the public about how much energy is wasted by over-lighting yards, streets, porches and pathways and to underscore the ramifications of continued use of unnecessary light – on the environment and non-renewable resources. 

“Over-lighting creates an artificial environment that has a negative impact on animal behaviour and the growth of plants and trees, not to mention the overwhelming draw on energy sources to power unnecessary lights.  All it takes to change this is for people to think before they light,” says John Crossen, owner and resident astronomer, Buckhorn Observatory.

Members of the public are invited to join the Peterborough Astronomical Association on Armour Hill in Peterborough to survey the effects of Earth Hour on the surrounding city area and receive information about light pollution. From this viewing position the PAA members will also be able to monitor the impact of Earth Hour on Peterborough’s skyglow.

To find out more about Earth Hour or light pollution in general, contact Buckhorn Observatory at (705) 657-2544. Other resources include Rick Stankiewicz , President of the Peterborough Astronomical Association (705) 295-6158 or Mark Coady (705) 292-0458. Complete details are also available on the PAA website, www.peterboroughastronomy.com, www.dark-sky.org or Google up Earth Hour on your computer.

Astronomy Day 2008 is on It's Way!

Saturday, May 10th will be the day to be at Armour Hill at the Peterborough Centennial Museum & Archives (PCMA).  Throughout the afternoon and evening there will be special events for young and old alike to celebrate International Astronomy Day.  The Peterborough Astronomical Association (PAA) along with the PCMA, are hosting a day filled with activities and opportunities for all ages.  From inflatable planetariums, to safe solar viewing, interactive kids activities and displays during the day and then live music by Charles Glasspool and telescope viewing under the stars that evening, this free family event is one to mark on your calendar.  See you there!

This will also be the evening for the raffle draw of a telescope and a dozen other prizes (7:30 p.m.) that we are currently selling tickets in advance ($2 or 3 for $5) on the 1st prize  4.5" Orion Reflector telescope.  If you would like more information or are interested in tickets, please contact me directly or the PCMA at 743-5180 / www.pcma.ca

Rick Stankiewicz
President
Peterborough Astronomical Association