Melbourne Observatory

The Royal Botanic Gardens manages the site of the Melbourne Observatory. The observatory played a key role in the early development of the city of Melbourne. Each of the preserved historic buildings features engaging interpretative signage. A detailed factsheet is also available from the Visitor Centre as well as a map and directions to the site.

The Melbourne Observatory site is now a focal point for visitors with features including:

• Observatory Cafe
  
• Visitor Centre
• The Gardens Shop
  

Much of the historic equipment used when the Observatory was fully operational is preserved and still used for observing the southern night sky. Experienced guides from the Astronomical Society of Victoria (ASV) host regular tours in the Melbourne Observatory buildings including Lunar tours, Moons and storms of Jupiter, and Saturn returns. These tours are very popular and often sell out - visit our What’s On section for tour information and booking details.*Bookings required Booking information/Cancellation Policy.

Please note:

• the Observatory is only open for tours and not for general visit.
• evening tours conducted inside the heritage-listed Observatory buildings are not suitable for wheelchairs as doorways are small and there are narrow staircases.
• Observatory tours will not be cancelled due to overcast or inclement weather conditions. Your guide will conduct an informative tour although the use of telescopes for observation in these conditions will not occur. If you find this undesirable, you may wish to cancel your booking but you will need to provide at least 24 hours notice.
  

The Astronomical Society of Victoria (ASV) is a volunteer organisation for astronomy enthusiasts. The ASV works closely with the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne to maintain this important historical site and share their passion with visitors of all ages.

Fact sheets

• The Sun and the Moon (MS Word - 225 kb)
  
• The Photoheliograph (MS Word - 395 kb)
  
• History of Melbourne Observatory (MS Word - 216 kb)