Stargazing in Canada

Before you go

1. 01

   Go near the new moon

   The darkest nights come around the new moon, when the moon is out of the sky. Point Pelee and Jasper both point stargazers to new-moon nights.

   Sources:Parks Canada, Point Pelee ↗Parks Canada, Jasper ↗

2. 02

   Use red light only

   A red light, or red cellophane over a flashlight, is gentler than white light and keeps your night vision. Several preserves ask for red or amber light only.

   Sources:Parks Canada ↗Manitoulin Eco Park ↗

3. 03

   Give your eyes 20 to 30 minutes

   Eyes take 20 to 30 minutes to adjust to the dark, and a bright light starts the clock again.

   Sources:Parks Canada, Kejimkujik ↗

4. 04

   Fall and winter are best

   Clear, cool fall and winter nights give the best views. In Wood Buffalo, long summer days from May to July leave little darkness.

   Sources:Parks Canada, Jasper ↗Parks Canada, Wood Buffalo ↗

5. 05

   Check the weather, then pack

   Check the forecast before you go, and bring a star chart or app, binoculars, warm layers and a chair or blanket. It gets cold after dark.

   Sources:Parks Canada ↗North Frontenac ↗