Siding Springs Observatory

Known as the ‘Gateway to the Warrumbungles’ and the ‘Astronomy Capital of Australia’, Coonabarabran is a mix of natural beauty and science.

The Solar System Drive, a scale model of the solar system that stretches for over 200 km, was a fun and unexpected way to track our journey through the cosmos as we made our way up the mountain to the Siding Spring Observatory. Starting from the Sun in town and ending at Pluto near the observatory, each planet has its own roadside sign and model, scaled both in size and distance.

We explored the Visitor Centre, with its interactive displays and a short film, before joining a guided tour of the 3.9m Anglo-Australian Telescope, Australia’s largest optical telescope. The view from the top was fantastic, a full 360° panorama of the surrounding countryside, albeit deceptively chilly.
An impromptu selfie in the car park with my own real-life superstar Liz Ellis, was definitely a highlight!

As the sun set, we visited the Dark Sky Observatory for a 90-minute stargazing session, including a live astronomy presentation and the chance to look through up to six telescopes, including a 20-inch scope. The sky was perfectly clear, making the Milky Way feel close enough to touch.Read more