Rothney Astrophysical Observatory

Join us on Tuesday, November 17th, 2026 at 9:00 AM as our Roots families head out to the University of Calgary's Rothney Astrophysical Observatory, nestled in the Foothills of the Rockies. This isn't just a scenic outing — the RAO is a working research facility where teaching, science, and community curiosity all come together, giving our kids a chance to engage directly with real astrophysicists and researchers. Our 2-hour condensed program will include a presentation, a hands-on activity, and a guided tour of the site, making for a wonderful morning of hands-on STEM learning.

A few things to know before you go: Since part of the program takes place outdoors on an exposed, windy hilltop, please dress warmly — winter coats, boots, hats, and gloves are a must, as it's often colder and windier here than in the city. The RAO doesn't provide food or drinks, so pack a snack and something to sip on, though water fountains are available in the washrooms at the interpretive centre. You may also spot some wildlife or farm animals wandering near the buildings, so please admire them from a distance and don't attempt to interact for everyone's safety. Rest assured, RAO staff on-site are Level C first-aid certified should any need arise.

We're looking forward to exploring the wonders of space together as a community — see you under the (day)sky!

Details

• Roots & public can register right away.

• Recommended Ages: Grade 4 and Up - Ages 9+

• Are younger (non-participating) siblings welcome? No, onlny grade 4 and above are allowed.

• Any specific dress/attire required?  Part of your program will take place outdoors. The RAO is a rural, exposed, hilltop site. The weather here is often colder and windier than in the city. All participants should dress appropriately. This includes: Winter: winter coats, boots, hats, and gloves. Spring and Fall: warm coats and sturdy outdoor shoes. Summer: jackets, sturdy outdoor shoes, hats, sunscreen and insect repellent if needed. Bring Your Own Food and Drink.

• Should guests bring lunch? no, but snacks and water are recomended

• Arrival Time: 8:45 am

• Registration deadline date: November 9, 2026 @ 11:59pm

• Refund Policy: No refunds past November 10, 2026

PARENTS' HOUSEKEEPING

1. We need your assistance in ensuring that your family arrives on time to this event.

2. Parents are responsible for transporting and supervising their children at all times during this event. Should you not be able to stay, a letter with the parent signature, stating who is responsible for your child in your absence (an adult staying on site), must be given to the event organizer.

3. There are no refunds past the registration deadline unless the event must be cancelled due to lack of student enrolment.

4. Each person is encouraged to bring a labelled water bottle, as water fountains are not always available.

Students: Roots reserves the right to make final decisions regarding the acceptance of any student into the program. Students who do not demonstrate an attitude of cooperation and willingness to respect the rights and property of others will be dismissed after two warnings are issued. There will be no refund.

WAIVER

On behalf of my child, I/we hereby waive and release the Roots Christian Home Education Fellowship, The Father’s House Christian School and any Roots volunteer/facilitator/administrative staff of the Roots Christian Home Education Fellowship from any liability to my(our) children. I/We are fully aware of the risks and potential for harm involved in such events, and on behalf of our child, release from liability Roots Christian Home Education Fellowship (Roots), The Father’s House Christian School and waive any claims such minor may have as a result of an accident, mishap or negligence of the Released Party and/or and other party under or affiliated with the Released Party.

I acknowledge that I, the parent/guardian of the registered attendee/s agree to stay on site at the venue of the program, and if space allows in the classroom to oversee my child/ren for the duration of the program.  Should I not be able to stay at the venue with my child/ren, a handwritten note with my signature will be sent with my child and given to the program organizer, stating the adult who is staying on site and has agreed to be responsible for my child/ren for the duration of the program.

Contact

Christina Friesen

403-390-0533

karl.christina.friesen@gmail.com