Toronto’s Astronomical Heritage (Abstract)

Volume 47 number 2 (2019)

John R. Percy

Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics, and Dunlap Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics, University of Toronto, 50 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3H4, Canada; john.percy@utoronto.ca

Abstract

(Abstract only) As a project for the International Year of Astronomy 2009, I developed an astronomical walking tour for Heritage Toronto, which highlighted the remarkable individuals, organizations, facilities, and structures which have enabled Toronto to become a “centre of the universe” for astronomical research, education, and public outreach. This profusely-illustrated “presentation” version of the walk has been given over a dozen times, in various venues, especially during Canada’s sesquicentennial year in 2007. The nature and growth of astronomy in Toronto closely parallels the growth and maturation of the city, and the country from the 1830s to today. It illustrates the many ways that astronomy impacts society and culture. For those who are interested, I will provide links to further information, and to a brochure with a map for a self-guided version of the walking tour.