As winter fades and spring approaches, the night sky over Alberta’s Foothills will be putting on a show you won't want to miss. Between a glowing Venus and a pair of eclipses, March’s sky will be full of must-see astronomical events. Thanks to The Foothills Dark Sky initiative and its ongoing effort to minimize light pollution, celestial wonders shine even brighter than what you’ve seen in the city.
This guide will walk you through the top astronomical events in March, where to find the best stargazing spots, and how to make the most of your night underneath the stars.
Venus at its brightest
If you’ve ever looked up just after sunset and seen what you thought was a dazzlingly bright star in the western sky, chances are it was Venus. For the first half of this month, Venus will be shining bright, making it easy to spot, even for beginners.
Tips for best viewing:
Look west just after sunset
Venus will appear as the first and brightest star in the sky
A note on visibility: Venus won’t be around all month. After March 15th, it will sink lower on the horizon and become harder to see in the evening sky. If you want to catch its dazzling glow, plan your stargazing for earlier in the month.
Blood Moon & Total Lunar Eclipse (March 13th-14th)
A total lunar eclipse happens when Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a reddish glow over our lunar neighbour…hence the term Blood Moon.
Did you know that if you were standing on the Moon during a lunar eclipse, you would see a red-tinted Earth thanks to our atmosphere bending and filtering the sunlight?
Tips for best viewing:
The eclipse begins late on March 13th, peaking in the early hours of March 14
The deep red hue will be at its most vivid when the Moon is high in the sky
Spring Equinox (March 19th)
The spring equinox marks the official transition from winter to spring, a time when day and night are equally balanced. You may think of it as a simple changing of the seasons, but there’s more to it than that. Did you know that the word equinox comes from Latin, meaning equal night? Plus, ancient civilizations built monuments, like Stonehenge and Machu Picchu, to align with the Sun on this day.
Ways to celebrate:
Plan a twilight hike to watch the transition from daylight to darkness
Take in the stars at a local observatory
Host a small equinox gathering with loved ones
Finding the Darkest Skies in the Foothills
Although you can see most celestial events from anywhere, the darker the sky, the better the view. Here are some of the best spots in the Foothills for you to experience astronomical events this March.
For an expert-led excursion, head to the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory. This research facility opens its doors for public stargazing nights, offering telescopes, expert guides, and one of the darkest skies you can find near Calgary.
Just west of Diamond Valley, Sheep River Provincial Park's wide open skies make it an ideal spot for stargazing. The rolling hills around Nanton, Okotoks, and Longview offer the perfect impromptu stargazing locations. All you have to do is pull off onto a quiet side road, bundle up, and enjoy the show.
A successful night under the stars takes a little planning. Don’t forget to bring:
Warm layers…March nights can still be chilly
Blanket(s) and/or camping chair(s)
Telescope or Binoculars (not necessary, but will enhance your experience!)
Snacks & Drinks…A thermos of hot chocolate can save your night
The Night Sky Is Calling…Are You Ready?
March’s celestial events are a reminder that the universe is always in motion, offering us breathtaking sights if we take a moment to pause and look up. Whether you’re witnessing a Blood Moon, catching a glimpse of Venus while it's bright, or experiencing the eerie glow of a solar eclipse, the Foothills offer the perfect backdrop for your stargazing experience. Grab a blanket, find a quiet spot, and let the night sky inspire you.
Bonus Resources & FAQs
Q: Do I need a telescope to enjoy these events?
A: No. Most events, like the Blood Moon and Venus, are visible to the naked eye. A telescope or binoculars enhance your view, but aren’t needed.
Q: What time should I head out for stargazing?
A: An hour after sunset is a good start, but the later it gets the more stars you’ll see.
Q: Can I bring kids along for stargazing?
A: Absolutely. Stargazing is a great family fun; kids love looking for planets and shooting stars.
Opmerkingen