Dubbo Observatory stargazing tours in Dubbo, NSW
Stargazing tours at the Dubbo Observatory in Dubbo, NSW, include astronomy presentations and viewing the night sky through powerful telescopes.
Dubbo Observatory in Dubbo, New South Wales, is one of the best places in Australia for viewing the night sky.
Book in advance for the best Dubbo accommodation deals and Dubbo Zoo tickets.
Every night, the Observatory runs a Night Sky and Telescope Show, which aims to give visitors a celestial education.
These sessions last for at least an hour, but they’re often longer if viewing conditions are good.
Dubbo Observatory show
The Night Sky and Telescope show at Dubbo Observatory comes in several parts, beginning with an astronomy presentation.
After this, providing the sky is suitably clear, the astronomer points out the stars, planets and constellations with a laser pointer.
Then it’s time to get the telescopes out. Up to nine of them are used, and guests are guided through what they can see in the heavens. This varies depending on the time of year, but include other planets, stars, nebulae and galaxies.
Photography at Dubbo Observatory
After the telescope viewing there’s time to ask any questions about astronomy that might pop into your head, then take photos. Bring an SD card or digital DSLR camera and the astronomer will take pictures of a colourful nebula for you, using the Observatory’s equipment.
Dubbo Observatory tour cost
Tickets for the stargazing session at the Dubbo Observatory cost $30 for adults and $20 for children, if booked online. It’s $2 extra on the door. The Dubbo Observatory also offers premium tours and astrophotography sessions.
It’s important to know that the stargazing shows at Dubbo Observatory take place outdoors. You should bring warm clothing in case it’s a cold night.
Start times vary by time of year – they’re considerably earlier in winter than in summer. Visit the Observatory website for more details.
Other things to do in Dubbo include ghost tours at the Old Dubbo Gaol and seeing African animals at the safari-style Taronga Western Plains Zoo (BOOK HERE). There’s also some pretty distinctive accommodation at the Dubbo Zoo.
Less wacky Dubbo accommodation options include the usefully central Palms Dubbo Inn, family-friendly Discovery Parks Dubbo and the well-equipped Cattleman’s Country Inn and Serviced Apartments.
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