A night tour provides a unique opportunity for visiting groups to learn about astronomy and space exploration. Our highly trained astronomy educators can tailor visits to meet the unique needs of scouts, seniors, tourism or other community groups. Visitors can view the moon, the planets, double stars, star clusters and nebulae using the Observatory's large refracting (lens) telescope and modern computer controlled reflecting (mirrored) telescope.
Each tour is guided by an astronomer, lasts for just under two hours and makes use of the telescopes for viewing (weather permitting), 3-D space theatre and the exhibition. On nights when cloud makes telescope viewing difficult, time is spent in the bean bag planetarium.
Bookings are essential for all night tours and are held regardless of weather.
A deposit of 25% is essential for all groups (except NSW schools).
Evening tours are available seven nights a week throughout the year (closed Christmas day and on the evening of Good Friday). From April to September two tours are run nightly while from October to March (when there are fewer hours of darkness in the evenings) only one tour is run nightly.
Group size: minimum of 15 and maximum of 20 persons per group. We can accommodate up to 60 (3 groups of 20) each session.
(Larger groups from regional areas or interstate can be accommodated)
Tour times
April to September: 6.15pm to 8.00pm and 8.15pm to 10.00pm
October and November: 8.15pm to 10.00pm
December and January: 8.30pm to 10.15pm
February and March: 8.15pm to 10.00pm
Prices
Adult groups: $250 for each group of up to 20 persons
(email observatory@phm.gov.au for tour operator prices)
Cub, scouts or youth groups of under 18s $200 for each group of up to 20 (including teacher)
Supervision: two supervisors per 20 children essential
Special needs groups: price on application.
How to arrange a visit
Please consider several dates before making your booking, in case your first preference has already been taken.
Cancellations and transfers
Cancellations or transfers can only be made more than one week before the date of any booked tour; there will be no refunds or transfers if less than one week's notice is given.
To make a booking call (02) 9921 3485 (10.00am to 5.00pm daily) and one of our friendly staff will assist you. Please ensure your have the following information ready:
- Name of group or school, address, telephone, fax and email details, and name of contact person
- Time of arrival and departure (allow for travel time)
- Number of people in group
- Ages of children in group and/or class year/s of school group
- Number of supervisors according to the following ratios: one teacher per 20 students
- Any students or group members with special needs
- The best way and time to contact you if a return call is necessary
Once a date is confirmed, you will receive a booking confirmation form and invoice, plus background material and information. When you receive this information:
- Check that all booking details are correct
- Sign and return the form
