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See the Stars at York Observatory

January 22 2015

Stare into space and see the wonders of the moon’s surface up close next week as York Observatory opens its doors for a free event.

The observatory in York Museum Gardens will have its historic Thomas Cooke telescope pointed towards the heavens to look at the details of the moons surface and any stars and planets which come into view.

The event is taking place on Wednesday January 28 from 6pm to 8pm and is free, but tickets must be booked in advance.

Fiona Burton, volunteers manager for York Museums Trust, said:

“For anyone who has not seen the moon through a telescope, this is the chance to see something truly spectacular. You can spot the valleys and mountains on the surface and it gives you a real sense of wonder that mankind has walked there.

“So why not make the most of the crisp winter evenings and come and see for yourselves!”

The event will also include a guided tour of the night sky, using binoculars on the Main Lawn of the gardens.

If the weather is not clear, there will be a virtual tour of the night sky inside the observatory and volunteers will be on hand to explain the fascinating history behind the observatory, which is the oldest working example in the county, and its fantastic telescope.

As the observatory is so small, places are limited. Children under five do not need a ticket, but please note the steps up to the telescope are very steep.

Please wear sensible footwear and bring as torch, as the main lights in the gardens will be switched off to reduce light pollution.

To book please click here to visit our Eventbrite page.

Your Comments

  1. Alan |

    Hi, my parents are visiting York on Sunday for a couple of days and I wondered if anything is happening at the observatory on Sunday or Monday night.

    Thanks,

    Alan

    1. Mike Linstead |

      Hi Alan

      Thanks for your enquiry. Unfortunately we don’t have any events planned at the observatory this Sunday or Monday I’m afraid. The observatory is usually open on Thursdays and Saturdays between 11.30am and 2.00pm. Please note though that the building is manned by trained volunteers and, although we always do our best to open as planned, sometimes this is not possible.

      Thanks,
      Mike Linstead

      Acting Marketing Manager
      York Museums Trust

  2. Ali Dodson |

    This would be fantastic for my old man. However, the Eventbrite link doesn’t seem to work. Also the Press suggested the dates were the 14th of Jan and 16th of Feb. Can you clarify this for me? Thanks

    1. Mike Linstead |

      Hi Ali

      Thanks for your enquiry and apologies for the confusion. You have come through to news item for the event that was held last year. This year’s Observatory events are on 14 Jan and 16 Feb. They are both free to attend and no booking is required as all the activities are on a first come first serve basis. Please see this link for full details:

      https://www.yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/whats-on/events/york-observatory-stargazing-night/

      Many thanks,
      Mike Linstead
      Acting Marketing Manager

  3. JULIE NIXON |

    Hi we would like to know when in February will you be open in the evening 6pm to 8pm for us all to come & see the old telescope & hope to look through if clear weather. Thanx

    1. Mike Linstead |

      Hi Julie

      Thanks for your enquiry. The next event is taking place on 16 Feb between 6-8pm. It is free and there is no need to book so please feel free to turn up on the night. Here is a link to the event page for more information: https://www.yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/whats-on/events/york-observatory-stargazing-night-4/

      Many thanks,
      Mike Linstead
      York Museums Trust

  4. Cassie |

    Hello,

    I have a friend visiting York March 11th and 12th and day of 13th. I was wondering if there is anything on at the observatory as I know she would be very interested.
    Regards,
    Cassie Vallance

    1. Rachel Wade |

      Hi Cassie,

      Thank you for your enquiry. The York Observatory will be open 11.30am to 2.30pm on Saturday 12 March – click here to find more information on our website. Please note that opening is subject to the availability of our volunteers. We hope you and your friend enjoy your visit!

      Best wishes,

      Rachel Wade
      York Museums Trust

  5. mark proctor |

    Hi, i have a four year old grandson whos very interested in space, planets, stars, etc, but iam not sure the best way to keep him interested, plus the best places to take him, any info would be much appreciated.
    many thanks in advance.
    mark

    1. Rachel Wade |

      Hi Mark,

      Thank you for your enquiry. Why not bring your grandson for a visit to the York Observatory in the Museum Gardens? It is currently open every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 11.30am to 2.30pm – it’s a great opportunity to see our historic telescope in action and to find out lots of interesting facts from our knowledgeable volunteers.

      Best wishes,

      Rachel Wade
      York Museums Trust

  6. Hannah Kenyon |

    Hello, I was just wondering when the next open night will be? I am in York all year as a student and would find it fascinating to go. Thanks.

    1. Rachel Wade |

      Hello Hannah,

      Thank you for your comment – it’s great to hear you’re interested in our York Observatory evenings. We will be having several events this Autumn/Winter; the first is on 8th November 6-8pm. It’s free with no need to book and you can drop in at any time. Please visit the Event section of our website for further information and future listings – yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/whats-on/events

      Best wishes,

      Rachel Wade
      York Museums Trust