Astroblème Charlevoix observatory

Observatoire de l'Astroblème sits in La Malbaie, Quebec, Canada, built around the site of an ancient meteorite impact crater - the astroblème that gives it its name.

About Astroblème Charlevoix observatory

Founded in 2009, the observatory is a science education facility focused on Earth and space sciences rather than professional research, using the region's dramatic impact-crater geology as a hands-on teaching tool alongside its astronomy programme.

History

Since opening in 2009, Astroblème Charlevoix has built a role as a public-facing education centre, running school programmes aligned with Quebec's provincial curriculum from preschool through university level.

Telescopes & research

Astronomy evenings here combine telescope observation with astrophotography sessions, while guided tours explain the geology of the Charlevoix impact crater itself - one of the largest known impact structures in Canada.

Location & getting there

La Malbaie sits in the Charlevoix region of Quebec, on the north shore of the St. Lawrence River, an area whose distinctive round-bowl landscape was carved out by the ancient impact.

Visiting Astroblème Charlevoix observatory

The observatory operates seasonally, welcoming the public from June 13 through August 30, with school groups also accepted in May, September, and October. Its programme includes guided crater tours, telescope evenings, astrophotography sessions, and public lectures; check its official website for current dates and booking.

See your named star from here

An astronomy evening at Astroblème Charlevoix is a fitting place to look for a star named through Star Register, since staff already run telescope sessions for visitors here. Find its coordinates in the star catalogue and bring them along to your visit.