Activities for 12-15 year olds
from 25 March 2012
at Sydney Observatory

Built in 1858, Sydney Observatory is Australia's oldest observatory and one of the most significant sites in the nation's scientific history. It is recognised as an item of 'state significance' by the New South Wales Government and is heritage listed. It is located near Sydney's historic Rocks district and the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge, and is easily accessed by bus, train, ferry or car. The Observatory comprises a historic 29cm lens telescope built in 1874, a 42cm computer-controlled telescope and hydrogen-alpha solar telescope, a virtual reality 3-D space theatre, exhibitions about astronomy, meteorology and the history of Sydney Observatory, a lecture theatre, souvenir shop, beautiful gardens and the beanbag planetarium. A visit to Sydney Observatory can include fascinating lectures, daily or nightly viewing through telescopes, a virtual reality 3-D space theatre show or launching a rocket at a school holiday workshop. At night time visitors can get fine views of the Moon, the planets and some of the best-loved features of the southern sky. During the New South Wales school terms, education programs for schools are run daily.