Visit Us

Victoria, B.C:

The headquarters of the NRC Herzberg Institute of Astrophysics is located near Victoria, B.C. There are many opportunities for visitors to learn about astronomy at our new interpretive centre, the Centre of the Universe.

Regular visits to the Centre include a guided tour of the historic Dominion Astrophysical Observatory as well as StarLab planetarium shows and interactive exhibits. The Centre also offers special group programs and evening activities.

For more information about hours, rates and programs, please visit the Centre of the Universe's web site.

Directions to NRC-HIA Victoria

Penticton, B.C.:

If you happen to be in the Okanagan, make sure and stop by NRC-HIA's Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory outside Penticton. You will be able to see the radio telescopes and learn about radio astronomy in general.

The Observatory grounds and Visitors’ Centre are open year-round for self-guided tours between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday to Friday.

The grounds are also open on weekends from Easter until Thanksgiving, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., with staff on duty in the Visitors’ Centre.

Special tours led by Observatory staff are offered on Sundays in July and August, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m.

Please note: We ask that all visitors please park at the gate and walk in (a distance of 400 metres), as vehicle electrical and electronic systems can interfere with our sensitive observations.

Directions to NRC-HIA Penticton