Stargazing nights and historical site tours

Mount Stromlo Observatory has been carrying out astronomical observations for over 100 years and, before the 2003 firestorm, had grown from a small outpost of pioneering astronomers to one of the world's great observatories.

Now you can experience it through the unique opportunity of a private stargazing and behind-the-scenes tour of the facility.  

Mount Stromlo offers private stargazing nights and behind-the-scenes tours to the general public and school groups. 

Private stargazing nights are led by professional or experienced amateur astronomers from the Research School of Astronomy & Astrophysics (RSAA) and the Canberra Astronomical Society (CAS). These nights include after-hours access to the observatory, the use of Mt Stromlo’s outreach telescopes, and a guided experience in viewing some of the most interesting features of the Southern Hemisphere sky.

Guests have the opportunity to add to their stargazing night, a behind-the-scenes tour, which details the fascinating history of Mount Stromlo as the Commonwealth Solar Observatory, notable scientific achievements by its researchers, and its experience and rebirth following the 2003 bushfires, as well as providing access to areas not normally open to the public.

Stargazing and site tours can also be purchased as a gift voucher for the ultimate astrophile gift. 

With a limited number of bookings available, it is recommended that you plan and book early to avoid disappointment!

Private group bookings

Private stargazing sessions can run for up to 1 hour. A stargazing session and tour can be requested together, with a run time of up to 2 hours. Start times are variable, depending on sunset and object visibility, with nights in the summer starting later.

School group bookings

School visits run for up to two hours and can be booked during the day or in the evening. For school evening visits, visits begin after sunset and the latest start time available is 8:30pm.

Make sure you check out the sky conditions at Mount Stromlo so you know what to expect when you arrive.

Please note:

Actual objects observed during private stargazing sessions will depend on the scheduled date.

Due to the variability of weather and visibility conditions, we will contact you by noon on the day of your scheduled event with information on weather and options, and give you the opportunity to reschedule or cancel if desired.

Our astronomers will always make an effort to provide an exciting and interactive experience, regardless of weather conditions and limited viewing.

Mount Stromlo School Holiday Program

Junior Explorers (Year 4 – Year 6) — 30 Sep–2 Oct $360.00

Daytime activities: 08:30–17:00 | Evening activity day 3

Learn about Astronomy and Mount Stromlo Observatory in a fun and easy way, along with games, challenges, and art and craft!

• Day 1 – Solar System Discovery: What is the solar system about? Also, learn about stories in the night sky from our guests!
• Day 2 – Field Exploration: Behind-the-scenes excursion to see science in action and look out for an unexpected guest!
• Day 3 – Mars Mission! + Family Night: Team challenges (rockets, trivia, and more!) and an evening Family Night to cheer on Youth presentations and enjoy stargazing.

Youth (Year 7 – Year 9) — 29 Sep–2 Oct $520.00

Daytime activities: 08:30–18:00 | Night observing: 19:00–22:00 (Days 2–3)

Dive deep into the role of Astronomers and Mount Stromlo Observatory, challenge yourself by conducting astronomy research with fellow voyagers, and put your science communication skills to the test by giving a final presentation on the last day of the programme!

• Day 1 – Foundation Workshops: Meet other voyagers as well as real-life astronomers and kick-start the mini research project.
• Day 2 – Solar System Discovery + Night Observing: Deep-dive into the science of the solar system, Aboriginal astronomy, and more chance to work on the project, telescope research session after dinner.
• Day 3 – Field Exploration + Night Observing: Behind-the-scenes excursion to see science in action, telescope research session after dinner.
• Day 4 – Deepen & Extend + Family Night: Refine projects, learn science communication, then present their findings to friends and families in the evening, followed by stargazing.

Click on the thumbnails below for further details.