Nothing quite goes together like hot dogs and science.

The Rothney Astrophysical Observatory, nestled in the Foothills near Priddis, is hosting a barbecue for its neighbours and anyone else interested in learning more about the big, white dome that keeps an eye on the sky.

"For the last few years we thought we should do a better job letting people who live around the observatory know what we do, so we have an annual howdy neighbour barbecue," says the observatory's director Dr. Phil Langill.

"So anybody can come and find out what goes on at the mysterious Rothney Astrophysical Observatory."

The event takes place on Thu. Sept. 24 between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. and is free to attend and includes a dinner of burgers and hot dogs, as well as a way to learn more about the observatory and, if the night is clear, observe the night sky.

Those attending are asked to RSVP before the event by calling 403-931-2366.

The observatory is located on the east side of Highway 22 south, approximately 2.4 km south of the Highway 22 and Highway 22X interchange.

~Dan Bascombe