Athabasca University professor Martin Connors is inviting star gazers and space aficionados to the 7 p.m. presentation of “Love Under the Northern Lights” at Athabasca University on Valentine’s Day to learn more about the romantic side of the Northern Lights.
Connors said the presentation combines science and myth to better understand the cultural interpretations and supernatural phenomenon surrounding the Aurora Borealis — also known as the Northern Lights.
“It was noted that 10,000s of Japanese tourists were coming to Canada, Alaska and Yellowknife to view auras and their is an urban legend that they are doing other things too, that why its called love under the Northern Lights,” said Connors. “We have to look at the belief system and respect the belief system and then we can appreciate different ways of viewing the Northern Lights.”
The Feb. 14 presentation will include a talk with Connors and is followed by a courtyard stargazing session for those that want to bring their telescopes.
Connors said he will be bringing a telescope to the event and encourages other people to do so.
“It’s Valentine’s day so we will go out and look at the skies,” he said.
