DDO Programs

COVID Update: All recreation facilities are closed to the public until at least January 26, 2022. Virtual and outdoor programs continue to be available.

Astronomy Series

We offer a variety of family programs, heritage tours, and lectures where participants can explore the night sky and learn about the cosmos.

Virtual Astronomy Programs 

View programs and register today

• Virtual Astronomy Speaker Night
• Virtual Astro Craft
• Virtual Ask an Astronomer
• Virtual Sunday Stargazing
• Virtual Up in the Sky

Group Bookings 

The DDO is open for groups to enjoy an in-person experience and for those that can’t make it to the DDO, you can arrange a virtual presentation that your group can enjoy from your own meeting place or the comfort of their own home. We will engage stargazers and science enthusiasts in our specialized educational programs tailored to your group’s needs. To check availability or to book a program, use our online DDO group booking request form.

Astronomy Programs for General Interest Groups

Programs are designed to provide an introduction to Astronomy for general interest and community groups. Astronomy content will be tailored to provide unique workshops and experiences for the public.
Ages: All ages
Fee: $283.50 for 20 people, $14.17 per additional person
Availability: September to June, Weekdays (mornings, afternoons or evenings)

Astronomy Programs for School Groups

Programs meet Grade 3, 6, 9, and 12 Ontario Curriculum requirements but programs can be tailored to students from Senior Kindergarten through Grade 12.
Fee: $283.50 for 20 people, $14.17  per additional person
Availability: September to June, Weekdays (mornings or afternoons)

Astronomy Program for Youth Service Groups (e.g. Girl Guides, Scouts Canada)

Programs are tailored to satisfy the merit badge requirements of Astronomy, Space Science and Astronomy-related outdoor components for each age group. 
Fee: $210 for 20 people, $10.50 per additional person
Availability: September to June, Weekdays (evenings)

Virtual Astronomy Presentation for Groups

Your group can enjoy a virtual presentation from home, school or wherever you meet. Explore breaking news from space and current research into what lies beyond our home planet! We’ll take a virtual tour of the DDO, hear from a speaker and a chance to ask questions about what they know and what they’re discovering. Astronomy content will be tailored to provide unique experience for your group.

Ages: All ages
Fee:  One hour presentation starts at $100
Availability: Year round

DDO Administration Building Historical Tour

Come on a tour of the Administration Building to learn about the history of the land and see the architectural features of this Beaux-Arts style building. This tour includes the opportunity to see the Observatory's 74-inch telescope. Please note: This tour is a historical focus of the DDO site and does not include astronomy presentations or use of the telescope. 
Ages: All ages
Fee: $84 for up to 20 people, $2.62per additional person
Availability: Year round

Please Note: As the Observatory and Administration Buildings are historic buildings, they do not meet existing accessibility standards. Access to both buildings is only by stairs. Washrooms and program rooms are located in the basement and on the second floor of the Administration Building and are accessible only by stairs. Both the Administration Building and the Observatory do not have elevators.