Royal Society of NSW 2026 Visits Program

Sydney Observatory

Date: Thursday, 9 April 2026 from 6.00—8.00 pm AEST
Venue:  Sydney Observatory, 1003 Upper Fort Street, Millers Point NSW
Transport:  own arrangements
Cost:  RSNSW Members, $25; Non-members/Guests, $30
Registration:  Please register now.  Registration closes at 5.00 pm AEDT on Monday, 30 March 2026
Numbers: limited to 30 places
Enquiries: By email to RSNSW Programs

Please register now

The Royal Society of NSW Visits Program returns in 2026 with an evening visit to the Sydney Observatory.

The Observatory has been the epicentre of modern science in Australia since its completion in 1858. However, its role in Western astronomy began earlier in providing time to ships in Sydney Harbour. The Observatory Hill itself, being the highest natural site in Sydney Cove, is believed to have played an important role in the culture and lives of the Gadigal people that stretches back through the millennia. Today, the Sydney Observatory, within the Powerhouse group of museums, brings together communities and stories across arts, sciences, design and technologies to explore, inform and entertain.

Our visit begins with an exploration of the grounds and exhibitions at the Observatory. There will be some naked-eye star gazing, a look at the Carte du Ciel exhibit of international collaboration to photograph and catalogue the entire night sky, a walk through the Observatory building which housed the Government Astronomer with his family, and finally up some narrow staircases to the Observatory’s domes for spectacular evening views across Sydney Harbour and, weather permitting, the southern skies through historic and modern telescopes.

Practical notes: Meet at the Observatory gates at 6.00 pm
This evening visit involves walking on lawns, pathways, uneven ground, stairs etc.
The Observatory can be accessed by public transport and vehicles, see https://powerhouse.com.au/visit/sydney-observatory#plan-your-visit for visitor information and maps.

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