Astronomy at home

To demystify the Universe and its astronomical phenomena, discover a wealth of information provided by our team of experts: astronomy news, tips for observing the sky, behind the scenes of the Planétarium Rio Tinto Alcan projections and more.

Astronomy news

Perseids »

This year, the best nights for observing the meteor shower will be between August 10-14. Find out on our special page why the quality of the Perseids show will be outstanding in 2021. And for an exceptional evening, register for the observation of the Perseids at the Botanical Garden.

Sky map of the month »
Watch what the sky has in store for you this month: observation of the planets, constellations and astronomical phenomena.

The Pocket Planetarium: Astronomical information bulletin »
Published seasonally, our astronomical information bulletin highlights the most striking celestial events of the coming months, and describes where to look for the naked eye planets. Simply download your free copy.

Mark your calendars

Planets currently visible to the naked eye »
Discover the exact moment when it is possible to admire the planets—in the night or morning sky.

Phases of the Moon »
New moon, full moon, first or last quarter? Here’s the 2021 lunar calendar, as well as the last years and those to come.

Equinoxes and solstices »
Discover the equinox and solstice calendar from one year to the next.

Tips for observing the sky

How to safely observe the sun »
Solar observation requires the utmost care. Here’s how to observe the sun without harming your eyes.

Observing shooting stars »
Forget binoculars and telescopes. Make yourself comfortable and watch the incredible dance of shooting stars.

Astronomy questions and answers

	How do telescopes work? » There is a tendency to think that the use of telescopes boils down to the magnification of distant objects. Well, that’s not quite right and here’s why.
	Meteorites and the origin of our Solar system » How can meteorites contain clues about the origins of our Solar system?

What is a shooting star? »
Find out what a shooting star really is and what explains this grandiose celestial phenomenon.

More questions about astronomy »
Where should we go to see an aurora borealis? Can we adopt a star and even name it after someone? Find the answers to common questions about astronomy.

Origins of the Earth

	How the Earth formed » Discover the main phases in the formation of our planet.
	Head outdoors to learn about the Earth’s past » Here are a few places in Quebec where you can satisfy your curiosity for geology - a fascinating science that tells us how our planet evolved.
	Where does the Earth’s water come from? » There’s no denying that the presence of water on the Earth was a determining factor in the appearance of life. But how did the water get there?

Behind the scenes at Planétarium Rio Tinto Alcan

	Secrets of 360° video projections at the Planétarium Rio Tinto Alcan » How to solve the challenges of 360° projections on a dome? We unveil the Planétarium's "magic" recipe—from production to broadcast.
	Making of EXO at the Planétarium Rio Tinto Alcan » Follow our team in the editing room of this film about exoplanets.

For further information

Astronomy glossary »
Expand your knowledge of astronomy with the Planétarium Rio Tinto Alcan glossary for an enriching experience, from A to Z.

Astronomy resources on the web »
Still eager to know? Here are our suggested resources to learn more about artificial satellites, solar activity, aurora borealis, light pollution, etc.