OBSERVATOIRE DU CÉGEP DE TROIS-RIVIÈRES

In 1979, the Cégep de Trois-Rivières (an institution that prepares young people for university studies) was created and, the following year, launched the project to build an observatory in Champlain, along the St. Lawrence River, about 15 kilometres northeast of the municipality of Trois-Rivières, Quebec. The quality of the sky being essential in the choice of the observatory's location, Champlain is well protected from light pollution while being easily accessible, regardless of the season and period. It is interesting to note that even at that time, the Cégep was already campaigning with the surrounding municipalities to find out about their medium- and long-term development programs, particularly with regard to public lighting and the installation of streetlights in all directions, which were often unsuitable. The following years saw the observatory's activities logically oriented towards students, particularly those interested in fields concerning astrophysics and optics, but with a popular dimension for the public with easy access to come and observe from time to time. In the mid-1980s, the equipment evolved and the observatory acquired a much more efficient 400 mm diameter telescope. Around the site, nature discovery trails, accessible to all, are also created. In the 1990s, and with the international enthusiasm for star night, public evenings were organized in August, which were a great success. In 2002, Astromax le théâtre was created, designed to offer interactive and entertaining shows to spectators. Unfortunately, this is followed by a period when funding is decreasing, so that the observatory can no longer open to the public as it wishes... Fortunately today, every summer, the observatory's team of animators is on deck to offer visitors some beautiful moments of astronomy, using the instruments and accessories installed on site: telescopes, information terrace, multimedia room, sundials, exhibitions, etc. Ideal for familiarizing yourself with astronomy and locating the main objects in the sky.