Join TVCC in exploring Cronyn Observatory at Western University's special public night! Families will be able to take a tour of the observatory, participate in demonstrations and activities, and ask their 'out of this world' questions to real scientific experts.

Weather depending, there will be opportunities to use the observatory's cutting edge telescopes to explore the stars yourself! This event is perfect for anyone interested in the wonders of the night sky, whether you are a space enthusiast or just starting out your journey!

This is a public event, aimed at those aged 12 yrs +, with programming and activities targeted for all ages and interests (including siblings, friends and parents!). Due to this event being public, we require ALL caregivers/parents to stay with their children at all times. TVCC will provide additional support and accessibility arrangements where possible to ensure the best experience for your family. 

TVCC will also be given early access to the observatory to ensure easy access and time to become familiarized with the space before the public event begins. 

Through this program, youth will:

• Engage in experiential and self-guided learning
• Practice social skills through engaging in a public space
• Explore and learn about space and science!
• Meet other families and clients from TVCC

Participant criteria:

• TVCC clients and their youth-aged siblings (12 yrs +)
• Able to participate safely in a public event that may be overstimulating; participants are welcome to have a support person or equipment (such as headphones and comfort items) present to assist them. 
• Ability to travers stairs is required to experience the majority of the observatory. Some accomodations can be made. If this is something you would like to discuss further, please contact Ariel at horizons [at] tvcc.on.ca (horizons[at]tvcc[dot]on[dot]ca) 

Date: Saturday November 14, 2026

Times: 8:00 - 10:00 p.m. (Come and go anytime within these hours. TVCC clients and families will be given early entrance at 7:30pm)

Location: Hume Cronyn Observatory, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario

Cost: None

Register Here

If you are unable to register online, please contact register [at] tvcc.on.ca (register[at]tvcc[dot]on[dot]ca) or 519-953-5445.

Learn more about the history and programming of the observatory at https://cronyn.uwo.ca/about-us/ 

Due to the nature of this event being public, please be prepared for large crowds and potentially loud rooms. Support tools like headphones are encouraged for those who are noise sensitive. If access to these tools is a concern, please contact Ariel at horizons [at] tvcc.on.ca (horizons[at]tvcc[dot]on[dot]ca). 

We recommend you check Western's Visitor Parking page (https://www.uwo.ca/parking/find-parking/visitor.html) for current information on where to park. Due to ongoing construction, only the southern portion of the Alumni-Thompson parking lot, accessible parking only, is currently open. Please follow the posted signs. Parking rates vary.  

If you have any other questions about program details or accessibility, please contact Ariel at horizons [at] tvcc.on.ca (horizons[at]tvcc[dot]on[dot]ca) with any and all concerns - we will do our very best to address them!