The Queen’s University Observatory hosts monthly open houses that provide a professional setting for public astronomy. Each session features a presentation by a guest astronomer on current astrophysics research, followed by a tour of the observatory facilities and telescope viewing of night sky objects (weather permitting).
Visitors also have the opportunity to visit the Arthur B. McDonald Canadian Astroparticle Physics Research Institute and learn about Queen’s rich history in physics and astronomy. Members of the RASC Kingston Centre are on hand to assist with additional telescopes on the observation deck.
Next Open House
- Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM
- Location: Ellis Hall Auditorium, 58 University Ave, Queen’s University
- Admission: Free — all ages welcome
Schedule
- When: Second Saturday of each month
- Sept–April: 7:00 PM
- May–August: 8:00 PM
Dates may occasionally vary — check the Queen’s Observatory website for updates.
What to Expect
- Guest astronomer presentation
- Tour of the Queen’s Observatory
- Telescope viewing (weather permitting)
- Visit the McDonald Institute
- RASC members with additional scopes
Location
Ellis Hall, 58 University Avenue, Queen’s University, Kingston
Presentations are held in the Ellis Hall Auditorium. The observatory is on the 4th floor (elevators and stairs available). Free parking on campus after 5:00 PM.
Contact: 613-533-2711