Open University Observatory Support Group

The astronomy club no longer exists for monthly meetings, however keen members have formed the Observatory Support Group in order to continue to use the telescope and allow outside interested parties to observe.

For more information and how to book email sheridan@ouastro.co.uk

As an unpaid dedicated group of amateur observers we offer visits to the Open University's observatory. There are costs involved in maintaining and running the observatory (we get no financial assistance from the university), also some of our guides travel a distance to do this. We have no income other than a small legacy from professor Barrie Jones, which was awarded to host public and community groups/clubs such as the WI, scouts, guides etc.

For other groups whose visitors are earning, there will be a £80 charge to cover necessary expenses. This covers a maximum of 27 people who will be divided into 3 groups doing 3 sessions with a maximum of 9 people per group (this is the maximum number we can host in the upper floor of the observatory). Under university rules the must be 2 guides for all groups however small, so for groups sizes up to 9 the charge can only be slightly reduced to £60. It is also not worthwhile to host groups of fewer than 9, however if you are prepared to wait to join another group please let us know. If you simply wanted to observe, then the Milton Keynes Astronomical Society are well worth contacting for family groups.

Visits normally start just after sunset and last 60-90 minutes depending on sky conditions. Daytime visits are possible but depend on the availability of guides as many of them have daily employment. Evening observing will not be possible from April to October due to lack of darkness, but daylight visits to see the equipment are still possible.

Obviously we cannot guarantee clear skies, but there’s a lot of equipment to see and demonstrate if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Area 1: The Observatory dome

Weather permitting you will observe celestial objects through the telescopes eyepiece. We will try and suggest dates when interesting objects will be visible such as the Moon, planets and star clusters. The telescopes workings will be explained and also how to capture images using a standard DSLR camera.

Area 2: The Observatory base

The base contains other types of telescope, tripods and mounts. We will show a solar scope, the difference between equatorial and altazimuth mounts, types of eyepieces and filters. We demonstrate Stellarium (a free planetarium software package) to show what can be observed and when. If the timing is suitable we will watch the International Space Station pass over.

Area 3: Meteorites and spacecraft

We will visit the Robert Hooke building which house models of spacecraft and a very large meteorite which you are encouraged to touch! You will also be able to handle smaller meteorites and marvel that they have been travelling through space for billions of years before crashing into the Earth.

Note:

The temperature inside the observatory is the same as outside to appropriate clothing is essential.

Visits are free to charitable groups and organisations such as the scouts, brownies etc. Other visits may be charged according to the number of guides needed and visitor numbers.