Astronomers and the public are invited to the 2023 Island Star Party, taking place from 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11 through the morning of Sunday, Aug. 13 under the dark skies of Bright Angel Park in the Cowichan Valley.
Visitors will be able to observe the wonders of the night sky through telescopes operated by skilled observers. Before dark each night, there will be telescope tours, special guest speakers, safe solar observing, door prizes (including a telescope), and activities in the park. Of note is the fact that the Perseid Meteor Shower will reach its peak on Saturday night Aug. 12.
Admission is free to all, although a donation of $20 is suggested for observers who camp overnight. This event is sponsored by the Victoria Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, and the Cowichan Valley Starfinders.
“The Island Star Party is the annual get-together for those of us who love to explore the universe and share its wonders with interested members of the public,” said Randy Enkin, president of the Victoria Centre of the RASC.
On Friday night at 8:30 p.m. University of Victoria astronomer William Thompson will talk about his work hunting and researching planets orbiting stars outside our solar system.
Melissa Amenouche of the Herzberg Institute of Astrophysics will speak on Saturday night at 8:30 p.m. about her observations of supernovae in distant reaches of the universe.
More information on the 2023 Island Star Party can be found at http://victoria.rasc.ca
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The Freedom from War Coalition is holding an information picket in Charles Hoey Park on Sunday, Aug. 10.
They are marking the day that the U.S. dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan.
“It is vital we never allow this act of brutality to go unacknowledged,” the group said in a press release about the event.
They are inviting people to attend, starting at 11 a.m., and help make origami cranes, symbolizing hope and healing.
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On Aug. 13 Cowichan Valley will play host to the second annual Vancouver Island Run For Homeless Vets.
People are invited to hop on their motorcycles and meet at OK Tire, 6482 Norcross Rd. in Duncan where the ride through the Cowichan Valley will kick off at 9:30 a.m.
Last year saw the riders head to Langford, but this year they are staying in the Cowichan Valley, organizers said, taking in Cowichan Bay, Saltair, and Ladysmith.
Riders will circle back to OK Tire for a barbecue which is being put on by the Shriners.
A $25 donation is appreciated, which includes the barbecue. Net proceeds will be donated to the Cockrell House. Cash and debit will be accepted.
The event is sponsored by the Calgary Veterans Services Society with support from the Shriners.
For information contact Thea Squire at 250-816-7563 or email VIRunforhomelessvets@hotmail.ca, or check out their Facebook page.