Established in 1974, the RASC Hamilton Centre Observatory is the heart of our club’s astronomical activities. Whether you want to observe, photograph, or simply marvel at the wonders of the sky, our observatory provides the perfect space for members and guests alike.
Established in 1974, it has grown to serve as the focal point for the club’s numerous and diverse astronomical activities. Consisting of two purpose built buildings, the observatory enables members to observe, photograph, measure or simply enjoy the spectacular wonders of the sky.
Why Visit the Observatory?
Our observatory is more than a place to look at the stars—it’s a hub of learning, discovery, and community for astronomy enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned observer or a curious first-timer, we welcome you to explore the night sky with us.
Facilities
The Leslie V. Powis Building
This larger facility serves as a meeting place and houses:
- A comprehensive astronomical library and museum.
- A small weather station.
- Security and video surveillance systems for observatory grounds.
The Chilton Building
Designed with a roll-off roof for optimal stargazing, this versatile building features:
- AC power.
- Advanced telescopes, including the Trillium 16″ Ritchey-Chrétien telescope and a 17.5″ Dobsonian.
- Additional portable telescopes for flexible observation.
Friday Night Sights: Stargazing for All
Join us for Friday Night Sights, a program where we open our observatory to members and the public every Friday (weather permitting) during warmer months. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the night sky through our high-quality telescopes.
Learn more on our Friday Night Sights page.
Is there any way to see if someone is going to have the observatory open during the week so I can set up my scope also?
Hi Peter,
The best way to see if someone is going to the observatory is to watch the Forum. Members interested in going up to the observatory sometimes post their interest to see if others will go as well.