Each summer the L.E Shore Memorial Library hosts a very popular presentation and observatory visit for astronomy buffs of all ages.  This year's event will be held on Tuesday, August 12, which is also the date that the Perseid meteor shower will peak.

The source of this meteor shower is Comet Swift-Tuttle, which is currently located beyond the orbit of Uranus, with a trail of debris that stretches all the way back to Earth.  Crossing this debris trail in August, Earth will be pelted by specks of comet dust which make vivid streaks of light when they disintegrate (meteors).  All this will make for very exciting viewing for those participating in the library event.  

This astronomy evening begins with a presentation that is geared to amateurs by Tony Horvatin, Past President of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Toronto Centre.  Mr. Horvatin's enthusiasm and knowledge always brings the audience of families and adults up to date on the latest happenings in the sky.  

Following the presentation, the audience is given the unique opportunity to visit the Carr Astronomical Observatory, one of the finest amateur astronomy observatories in the country and which is located nearby. 

The Observatory is named for Thornbury resident E. Clifton Carr who generously donated the observatory site and its primary telescope.  Operated by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Toronto Centre, the Observatory now boasts a research quality 16" Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope, retractable roof and other improvements that volunteers have worked hard to provide. 

Access to the Observatory is normally limited to RASC Toronto Centre members but the Society graciously opens its doors to participants in the Library's program for this one night only.
The astronomy lecture will be held at 8 p.m. at the L.E. Shore Memorial Library in Thornbury. 

Following the lecture, directions to the Observatory are distributed and participants make their own way there for an evening of star gazing.  

Space in this popular program is limited, so please register by August 8 by visiting or calling the library at 519-599-3681.  

There is no fee for this program, but donations at the door to the RASC, Toronto Centre are greatly appreciated.  This program is appropriate for adults and older children who are accompanied by adults.  Participants must provide their own vehicles.