Kielder Observatory
Kielder Water & Forest Park | Kielder | Northumberland | NE48 1ER
0191 2655510 | Send Email | Visit Website
All year round - a star gazing and astronomy heaven! Kielder Observatory is located in the heart of Northumberland International Dark Sky Park.
We have the largest expanse of dark night sky in the whole of Europe, thanks to minimal light pollution. Winter nights are darkest and best for viewing deep sky objects such as galaxies, while in summer you can view the beautiful Milky Way, passing comets, shooting stars and see the Sun's surface using our incredible telescope.
For more information about Northumberland International Dark Sky Park see our Dark Skies page.
Come here to:
- Learn about the night sky and use the powerful telescopes.
- Meet experienced astronomers and learn how to take stunning photographs of distant objects in the Universe.
- Experience meteor showers (shooting stars) and other celestial events.
Book onto an event to enjoy the full Observatory experience and use the large telescopes supervised by astronomers from Kielder Observatory Astronomical Society (KOAS). Those wishing to enjoy the panoramic views from the Observatory during the day (when the facility is closed) can park in the car park for Skyspace and walk up the hill (50 minutes).
KOAS hosts events all year round from open days and interactive shows to observing nights and lectures. Go to the events page for info. Click here to book onto an event or pop into one of the main visitor centres onsite to ask when the next event is.
Kielder Observatory is also part of the art and architecture programme. Find out more about its striking design here.
Forthcoming events
Produced By Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust. Registered Charity Number: 1139328. Members: Northumbrian Water, Forestry Commission, Calvert Trust Kielder, Northumberland County Council, Northumberland National Park Authority And Kielder Observatory Astronomical SocietySupported by the Joicey Trust.
