What’s an observatory without a planetarium? Well, still an awesome place but with the addition of the Sky Theatre this year, the Okanagan Observatory will be able to offer a unique experience.

We are very lucky to have a natural amphitheatre at the Observatory site, just above the main area, and it is here where our Sky Theatre will be constructed. Benches will be installed on a gently sloped area facing a presentation area that includes a large screen. This allows us to conduct Sky Tours, pointing out celestial wonders with laser pointers and on overcast nights, we can give presentations or movies projected onto the screen.

In November 2009 we applied for a BC Gaming Grant for $17,000. On March 9 we learned that $16,000 would be coming our way for this project. So, now the fun begins.

Many people will be needed to make this vision come to reality. What a great volunteer opportunity to contribute to the realization of the evolving Okanagan Observatory. The project will be divided into easily manageable portions so that no one person becomes overwhelmed and that the ‘fun’ of participating in such a project will be preserved.

If you would like to be part of this exciting venture, please contact Colleen O’Hare at  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Information about the Okanagan Observatory can be found at www.okanaganobservatory.ca.