Even COVID-19 can't stop the annual CFHT Winter Star Party! Beginning on Nov. 30, community members are invited to participate in a week-long celebration of the Canada-France-Hawaiʻi Telescope’s Winter Star Party. The beloved community event will go virtual this year with educational activities and holiday celebrations that will last through Dec. 5, culminating with a live stargazing event.
“Our annual Winter Star Party is an important tradition that allows us to connect with the community and celebrate the holiday season,” said Mary Beth Laychak, strategic communications director at the Canada-France-Hawai‘i Telescope. “While the event is different this year, we hope our friends, neighbors, students and educators will find the fun in learning about the stars and sky.”
Schedule of activities- All times are HST.
Monday, Nov. 30 – Ask a Remote Observer
Students, teachers and anyone interested in all things astronomy will get an insider’s look at what it’s like to observe the night sky in one of the world’s best telescopes. The interactive Q&A video will discuss fascinating observations and provide a tour of the remote observing room.
Tuesday, Dec. 1 – Holiday Gift Guide for Novice Astronomers For those wishing to take up a new hobby or find the perfect gift for their own novice astronomer, CFHT’s instrumentation engineers will help you find the best telescopes and binoculars to add to the toolkit.
Wednesday, Dec. 2 – Ask an Astronomer
In real-time, viewers can ask Canadian resident astronomers, Dr. Nadine Manset and Dr. Laurie Rousseau-Nepton questions on science, technology and the galaxy’s mysterious objects. The live, interactive segment will expand viewers’ understanding of earth and astronomy. Event starts at 2pm on CFHT's Facebook Live
Thursday, Dec. 3 – Christmas Crafts
Kicking off the Christmas celebrations, CFHT staff will share festive arts and crafts ideas to spread holiday cheer.
Friday, Dec. 4 – “Night Before Christmas” Reading with Dr. Doug Simons
In a cozy fireside read, Dr. Doug Simons, director of Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope, will share the “Night Before Christmas” story with families near and far.
Saturday, Dec. 5 – Live Stargazing
Community members will be able to virtually observe nebulas, galaxies, planets and more during a live, virtual stargazing event . Participants are encouraged to ask questions and learn more about the night sky. Please note the Maunakea Visitor Information Station remains closed to the public and people cannot view in person.
