Below you will find all the modules we offer and their description. Click on the Module name to go to the module page and start it.
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Introduction to the Observatory and Telescopes
About Allan I. Carswell Astronomical Observatory:
The Allan I. Carswell Astronomical Observatory (AICO) at York University is a cutting-edge facility located on the university's Toronto campus. It is dedicated to student learning, research, and public outreach. The observatory is home to Canada’s largest university-based telescope, a 1-meter telescope and several other advanced instruments, making it a hub for astronomical studies and exploration.
AICO provides a range of exciting educational programs, from free public viewing sessions every Wednesday and online viewing (on YouTube) every Monday, to private group tours, offering students and the public an opportunity to explore the wonders of the universe. It also hosts special events, including solar eclipse observations and more.
Visit the observatory’s website to explore upcoming events, virtual tours, and educational resources designed to inspire the next generation of astronomers!
Observatory Tour
1. The Role of Telescopes in Astronomy
Telescopes are the primary tools used by astronomers to explore distant objects in space. They gather and magnify light from stars, planets, galaxies, and other celestial bodies, enabling us to see them in much greater detail. At the Allan I. Carswell Astronomical Observatory, a variety of telescopes allow researchers and students to observe and study the cosmos.
Video link
2. The 1-Meter Telescope
One of the most impressive features of the observatory is its 1-meter telescope. This is the largest university-based telescope in Canada, and it is capable of capturing detailed images of distant astronomical objects. With its powerful optics and advanced technology, this telescope allows us to observe everything from nearby planets to far-off galaxies.
3. Other Telescopes at the Observatory
In addition to the 1-meter telescope, the observatory houses several smaller telescopes that are used for educational and research purposes. These include:
- Optical Telescopes: Used to observe visible light from stars, planets, and other objects in the night sky.
- Radio Telescopes: Help astronomers study objects emitting radio waves.
- Specialized Telescopes: Designed for specific research tasks, such as observing the Sun or studying distant nebulae
4. How the Telescopes Work
Telescopes work by gathering light from distant celestial objects and bringing it to a focus. The larger the telescope's mirror (or lens if it is a refractor), the more light it can collect, which allows for clearer and more detailed images. In the observatory, telescopes are often connected to computers that help control their movement and capture images, making it easier for astronomers to observe objects even far beyond our own solar system.
Exploring the Observatory Rooms
The observatory is divided into various rooms, each serving a different function. In the main dome, the large telescopes are housed, where they can rotate to follow celestial objects across the sky. Other rooms contain equipment for data analysis, storage for images taken by the telescopes, and classrooms where students learn about the universe.
Why is red light used in observatories, and how does it help astronomers during night observations?
The observatory uses red light for several important reasons, primarily to protect the night vision of astronomers and visitors. Exposure to bright white or blue light can interfere with the eyes' ability to adjust to the darkness, which is crucial for observing faint celestial objects. Red light has a longer wavelength and does not impact night vision as much, allowing astronomers to navigate and operate instruments without compromising their ability to see the stars. Additionally, red light minimizes light pollution, which could interfere with the clarity of telescope images. It also provides a safer and more comfortable environment for visitors, allowing them to move around without disrupting their night vision or the observatory's activities.
Optional Reading and Worksheet
This section is optional and focuses on the Allan I. Carswell Observatory at York University and how telescopes help us explore the universe. Students will learn about different types of telescopes, how they work, and the importance of observatories in astronomy.
Topics Covered:
- How telescopes work: Understanding reflecting vs. refracting telescopes and how they collect and focus light.
- Why observatories are important: How telescopes allow us to see objects beyond what the naked eye can perceive.
- The effects of Earth’s atmosphere: What is atmospheric distortion, and why do stars appear to twinkle?
- Why space telescopes are used: Learning about telescopes like Hubble, which avoid the distortions caused by Earth’s atmosphere.
- The telescopes at the Allan I. Carswell Observatory: Exploring the 1-meter primary mirror telescope, the largest on a Canadian university campus.
Activities and Questions:
- Short answer questions exploring why telescopes are placed on mountaintops or in space.
- Multiple-choice questions covering topics like the function of telescope mirrors, reasons for twinkling stars, and the advantages of space-based telescopes.
- True or false questions that require correcting false statements about telescope history, atmospheric distortion, and the nature of space telescopes.
- By the end of this worksheet, students will have a solid understanding of how telescopes function and why observatories are essential for space exploration.
Exploring Galaxies:
Formation, Evolution, and Large-Scale Structures
Introduction
Did you know that right now, you’re moving through space at over 2.2 million km per hour?
- Earth orbits the Sun at 107,000 km/h.
- The Sun orbits the Milky Way at 828,000 km/h.
- Our galaxy itself is speeding through the universe at 1.3 million km/h!
Galaxies are some of the most fascinating and complex structures in the universe. With over 200 trillion of them scattered across the cosmos, each galaxy tells a story of formation, evolution, and interaction. In this module, we’ll explore what galaxies are, how they form, how they change over time, and how they fit into the larger cosmic web.
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Exploring the Moon and Beyond – Observation, Phases, and Measurement
Our Moon - Part 1
Topics Covered
- The Moon’s role in Earth's systems: How it affects tides, climate, and time measurement.
- Why the Moon appears to change shape: Understanding lunar phases and how the Moon reflects sunlight.
- The phases of the Moon: Learning the eight phases (New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, Waning Crescent).
- Why one side of the Moon always faces Earth: Understanding tidal locking and how the Moon's rotation matches its orbit.
Activities and Questions:
- Short answer questions about why the Moon has phases, the difference between waxing and waning, and why only one side of the Moon is visible from Earth.
- Multiple-choice questions testing knowledge on the cause of Moon phases, the length of a lunar cycle, and which phase is best for stargazing.
- True or false questions correcting misconceptions about the Moon’s brightness, how much of it is always lit, and whether Earth's shadow causes phases.
By completing this worksheet, students will develop a strong understanding of why the Moon appears to change shape and how its movement affects Earth.
Our Moon - Part 2
This section builds on the previous one by introducing mathematical methods for measuring distances and features on the Moon. Students will use the Pythagorean Theorem and trigonometric ratios to determine the sizes of craters, mountains, and other lunar structures.
Topics Covered:
- Using the Pythagorean Theorem: Learning the formula a² + b² = c² to find missing side lengths in right triangles.
- Understanding trigonometric ratios: Using sine, cosine, and tangent to calculate distances.
- How these math tools apply to space exploration: How astronomers use the same principles to measure distances to planets and stars.
Activities and Questions:
- Pythagorean Theorem refresher with example problems.
- Trigonometry refresher covering sine, cosine, and tangent and when to use each ratio.
- Step-by-step example problem calculating the height of a crater using the Pythagorean Theorem and trigonometry.
- Practice problems where students apply these methods to real Moon measurements.
By the end of this worksheet, students will be able to apply math to space science, just like professional astronomers!
Teachers Copy(solution) Part 2
Final Overview
2025 total lunar eclipse: watch the moon turn red
How Space Research Innovations Affect Daily Life
Why Is Space Research Important?
1. Improving health care
Experiments performed in space help us understand health problems on Earth.
2. Protecting our planet and our environment
Satellites provide data on climate change, measure pollution, and help protect our planet.
3. Enhancing safety on Earth
Satellite data can be used to predict natural disasters and to support emergency relief efforts.
4. Improving our day-to-day lives
Space technologies improve products we use every day, weather forecasts, and communications worldwide.
5. Creating scientific and technical jobs
The space community generates high-tech jobs for Canadians, such as: engineers, astronauts, scientists, health science experts etc.
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Indigenous Sky
Introduction
Indigenous communities across the world have long held a deep connection with the stars, using astronomy as a vital tool for navigation, timekeeping, and cultural practices. Their knowledge of the cosmos is often rooted in centuries of observation, passed down through generations via oral traditions, rituals, and storytelling. This rich understanding of the night sky goes beyond mere observation, integrating environmental, spiritual, and practical wisdom. Indigenous methods of studying the stars complement Western science by offering alternative perspectives that emphasize holistic, cyclical, and interconnected systems. Recognizing and valuing these teachings not only enriches our understanding of the universe but also fosters greater respect for the cultural heritage and worldview of Indigenous peoples, highlighting the importance of integrating diverse scientific approaches in our pursuit of knowledge.
Final Overview
Indigenous Astronomical knowledge dates back 5,000-10,000 years! Learning about their methods offers great insight into the different ways communities have been viewing our vast sky and the teachings they have passed down generations. It offers a different and much more unique perspective on our world based on the culture, traditions and relationships . So next time you find yourself gazing at the stars above, try imagine all the rich stories it holds not just from conventional textbooks but also from the point of view of those who have been on this land thousands of years before us!
Discover STEM Careers in Astronomy and Space Science
Introduction
Astronomy is not just about looking at the stars. it’s about solving complex problems and developing technology. There are countless opportunities that can align with your passions and talents
Some Career Options:
Did you know that an astronomy degree can also help prepare you for a 6 figure job in finance or data science?
The modelling, programming and data science processes in astronomy are in high demand in todays high tech world. In fact many undergraduate majors in both physics and astronomy go on to areas throughout the tech and finance industry, of course many also stay in science and research as well.