The Fred P. Lossing Observatory (FLO)
The FLO is RASC Ottawa's private observatory, operated for the benefit of our members. Members may bring and set up their own observing gear at any time. There are also three large fixed-mount telescopes on site, which are resources shared by club members.
FLO was established in 1971, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2021. It has been located at the current site since 1977. Recent improvements have increased the number of permanent telescopes and observing areas.
FLO is located in relatively dark skies just outside of Almonte, about 45 km west of the Highway 417/416 interchange. We lease our site at the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area from the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority. Access to the observatory is from 365 Bennies Corners Road via a private gated lane. Western and eastern horizons are somewhat limited by nearby tree lines.
At RASC Ottawa we hope to inspire your interest and foster your knowledge of astronomy. Whether you’re a seasoned observer or just beginning to explore the wonders of the cosmos, we have expertise and resources to offer. Our vibrant community of members shares a passion for all things astronomical, and we are here to support and guide you on your astronomical journey.
Facilities and Activities
Facilities
There are two observing mounds with hydro power outlets where members may set up their own equipment. Treat FLO like a campsite: pack out your trash and never leave any food, food residue, or wrappers which may attract unwelcome visitors.
A clubhouse/warmroom and an outhouse are available. The clubhouse contains the log book, reference materials, and other resources including a 10″ DOB. There is a lost & found box.
There are three fixed-mount telescopes housed in separate structures. To operate them requires training, certification, and payment of a small additional annual fee to cover their maintenance and operating expenses. Qualified users for these telescopes are listed here.
The Mike Wirths Telescope
Equipment: 18″ Starmaster DOB with GoTo
Structure: roll-off roof (south mound)
Status: operational
The Rolf Meier Memorial Telescope
Equipment: 6″ Astro-Physics Refractor on a polar-aligned German equatorial mount
Structure: 12′ dome (north mound)
Status: operational
The Paul Comision Memorial Telescope
Equipment: 14″ Meade SCT on a wedge mount
Structure: SkyShed Pod (north mound)
Status: operational
To obtain a copy of the Site or Telescope User Guides contact the FLO manager at: flo@ottawa.rasc.ca
** Make a logbook entry when you visit **
FLO star parties
RASC member star parties are scheduled once a month on a Saturday close to the new moon. Backup nights are included in the schedule to improve our success rate. This will be either the Friday or the following Saturday.
Go/NoGo is announced to the club email list around noon on the day. These star parties are NOT open to the public. Club members may bring family members or a guest.
Typical attendance is 5 to 15 people. There is plenty of room on the two observing mounds for personal equipment setups. All are welcome to observe through club telescopes if certified operators are present.
FLO star party dates:
- 17 Jan. 2026 - NoGo
- 14 Feb. - GO (8 attended)
- 21 Mar. - NoGo
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17 or 18 Apr. - new moon - 15 or 16 May - new moon
- 12 or 13 Jun. - waning moon (7%)
- 11 or 18 Jul. - waning (11%) or waxing (22%) moon
- 8 or 15 Aug. - waning (22%) or waxing (10%) moon
- 11 or 12 Sep. - new moon
- 9 or 10 Oct. - new moon
- 6 or 7 Nov. - waning moon (6%)
- 5 or 12 Dec. - waning (15%) or waxing (7%) moon
