Stockport Observatory
Stockport Observatory is located in the small town of Stockport (6kms north-east of Hamley Bridge) approximately 80kms north of Adelaide. It provides a convenient astronomical facility away from the light pollution which surrounds Adelaide (population 1 million).
The Society owns two large observatories in Stockport. One of them (foreground) houses an 12-inch (30cm) Schmidt-Cassegrain, while the Charles Todd Observatory (background) houses the Society's largest telescope at present - the Jubilee Telescope.
Stockport Observatory houses three permanently-mounted telescopes as well as some small portable ones.
- The Jubilee Telescope is a 20-inch (0.5 metre) Newtonian-Cassegrain reflecting telescope that was built with the assistance of the state's Jubilee 150 Board in 1986. The telescope is computer-controlled and equipped with a ST-6 CCD camera for digital imaging of the night sky.
- The smaller observatory houses a computerised 12-inch (30cm) Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope.
- A slide-off roof observatory houses a popular 15-inch (40cm) Newtonian reflecting telescope.
The telescopes are used for projects within the Society and to show visitors the beauty of astronomical objects in the southern skies.
In addition to the main observatory buildings, the Stockport site also contains three telescope pads (all with power), a furnished hut with sleeping accomodation and amenities, a large shed seating around 30 people for lectures and slide shows, a BBQ area, shower and toilet facilities, and an off-site car park.
Watch this short movie clip about an Evening at Stockport Observatory by Martin Whipp.
Public Viewing Nights
Public Star Parties are held at Stockport in February, May, August and November. The dates for 2013 are:
- 16 February, 8:30pm
- 18 May, 8pm
- 10 August, 8pm
- 9 November, 8:30pm
There is no need to book - just turn up on the night at the advertised starting time. These nights are often well attended by the public.
The following admission fees are charged at public Star Parties:
| Adults: | $10 |
| Children under 15: | $3 |
| Members: | Free* |
* Members should ensure they are wearing their name badge so that they are not charged for admission.
On public viewing nights, tea, coffee, biscuits and cold drinks can be purchased, and asausage sizzleis run in the undercover BBQ area.
Viewing nights will only proceed if the weather is suitable. If in doubt, confirm by visiting our web site or calling (08) 8338 1231 before travelling to any observing session.