The York Observatory is located on the York University campus. Public transport options include the TTC subway to York University Station, followed by a short walk or campus bus. Driving is also an option, with parking available on campus, though fees apply.

Yes, there are several parking lots and garages on the York University campus. Check the university's parking services for rates and locations. It's advisable to arrive early if driving, especially for popular events.

No, the York Observatory is primarily a research facility. Public access is typically limited to scheduled 'open nights' or special events. Always check their official website for visiting hours and event schedules.

Yes, tickets are usually required for public open nights. These events can be popular, so it's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance through the observatory's official website to secure your spot.

Admission fees for public open nights can vary. Check the official York Observatory website for the most current pricing information. Some events might be free, while others have a nominal charge.

The observatory's hours are not regular. Public access is limited to specific 'open nights' or scheduled events. These typically occur in the evenings. Always consult their official schedule for exact times.

York University students can generally access the observatory's services, especially for academic purposes. For casual observation of celestial events, it's still best to check for specific student access policies or attend public events.

During open nights, you can expect to view planets, nebulae, star clusters, and other celestial objects through their telescopes. The specific sights depend on what's visible in the night sky at the time of your visit.

Yes, families often find the open nights fascinating. It's a great educational opportunity for children to learn about space and astronomy in an engaging way. Ensure children are supervised.

The observatory is equipped with various telescopes, including historically significant ones and modern instruments used for research and public viewing. The specific telescope used for public viewing will be trained on interesting celestial targets.

Photography policies can vary. Generally, casual photography is permitted, but astrophotography might require special arrangements or be restricted during busy public events. It's best to inquire beforehand.

While public nights are for viewing, dedicated astrophotography sessions might be offered separately or require special permission. For general photos, focus on capturing the observatory building itself against the night sky.

Tripods might be restricted during crowded open nights to ensure clear pathways. Flash photography is usually discouraged as it can disrupt the viewing experience for others and affect night vision.

For general night sky shots of the observatory, use a wide aperture (low f-number), a high ISO, and a long exposure time. Experiment with manual focus set to infinity.