Activities to Date

Project participants have experience operating radio telescopes for observing objects in space. Early project guidance from William Lonc, Professor Emeritus of Physics at St. Mary’s University in Halifax, and Ken Tapping, radio astronomer at the Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory (DRAO) in Penticton has been instrumental in determining the viability of the project. We have visited radio telescopes at Penticton (DRAO) and Shelbourne, Ontario and consulted with the scientific and technical staff of the DRAO. We have been researching a variety of observation programs, techniques, and technologies.

Through an innovative collaboration with Radio Shack and the RASC to promote participation in the project, we have demonstrated that businesses and associations will become involved in promoting the project’s science awareness activities. A formal written agreement for collaboration between the University of Alberta's Department of Physics and the Edmonton Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada has been made.

The Edmonton Centre of the RASC has contributed an initial $5,000 toward the project as part of its public education program. Local businesses have already contributed materials and services valued at approximately $4,500 including over 600 decommissioned satellite receivers donated by Star Choice and Express Vu and 21 large (10’ and 12’) satellite dishes donated by individuals. Additional contributions are expected as we broaden our fund raising efforts. Ford of Canada has donated a 4.5 meter dish worth approximately $4,000. Other businesses will be approached for in-kind contributions as well. We have made preliminary contact with the Edmonton Public School Board regarding their support in the dissemination of information on the at-home component of the project. The Dept. of Physics at the University of Alberta is contributing roof space, a control room and access to the public observatory, as well as administrative support for the project.

Funding support is being sought from a number of other government agencies and from businesses.

Two presentations have been made to Alberta Science teachers. The first was at an Alberta-wide gathering of science teachers in Red Deer on September 29, 2001. The second was in Edmonton on October 2, 2001.

November 2001 - Successful radio observations of the Leonid meteor shower were made using an FM receiver, antenna, and computer. This prototype system is the first in a series of tests of equipment for use in schools for educational purposes.

December 2001 - NSERC PromoScience fund notifies project members of their successful application and a grant of $47,700 spread over 3 years to support the public education initiative of the project into the school system.

March 2002 - Bruce McCurdy contracted to undertake the role of Education Development Coordinator.