Killarney Parks and the Allan I. Carswell Observatory present, a new Astronomy outreach endeavour, the Astronomer in Residence program!
Apply to join this exciting chance to share your love of astronomy in the wonderful outdoors of the dark sky site at Killarney provincial park with live, in-person tours as well as remote events.
Follow along with recent adventures at Killarney Park with the Astronomer in Residence Blog. Note that the 2025 season has started! To apply for 2026 keep an eye out for new applications in January, note there are a limited number of stipends (at $400 per week). If you apply, make sure to indicate in the form if this is a limiting factor in your application. 2025 applications open in February and close in May for tenures through summer.
2025 Applications Closed! See Information below
Remembering Blake Nancarrow: Our first astronomer in residence from 2022, Blake was an amazing innovator and educator in astronomy, especially in Ontario. Blake kicked off this program with great effort and wonderful imaging. Unfortunately Blake passed away in 2023, but he will remain forever a star in our skies and his blog will remain featured in our archives here.
- How to join in the fun:
- Read the Blog Online: Astronomer in Residence Blog
- Join the show at Killarney Park: Killarney Public Info
- Check the Schedule of Events at Killarney Park: Killarney Schedule
- Join in our livestream on YouTube: York AICO YouTube
- Apply to BE an Astronomer in Residence: 2024 applications
Astrophotography by Bruce Waters using the Killarney Park Observatory Telescopes.
Highlights
THE PROGRAM
The program comes with free parking and lodging. A limited number of stipends are available and can be requested in the application form.
Candidates are expected to be fluent in general astronomy knowledge, stargazing, and telescope operations.
APPLYING
2025 applications for summer are closed, 2026 applications start in January. RASC badges are recognised in the AIR application. Earn badges as well while visiting. 2025 Application Here!
Follow along with 2025 AIRs at the blog area!
MAKING THE TRIP
Find all the information you need to make your trip a successful one.
Astronomers are required to provide their own transportation.
Observatory on YouTube
In this video, Killarney Provincial Parks Jeremy Pawson and Shawn Spencer discuss why dark skies aren't just good for astronomy, they also help animals and ecosystems survive.