This panorama shows the observation platform and the storage sheds for the telescopes at the Koolang Observatory in New South Wales, Australia. This is a small private observatory which runs daily and nightly programmes allowing people a unique opportunity to observe the light sky. The main telescope sits on the circular dias shown in this image. At night the shed moves away from the telescope on a short track.

Koolang Observatory - Hunter Valley visitor guide showing a virtual tour of 'Koolang Observatory' linked to an interactive map with local and travel information. 360° panoramas from New South Wales.

The Koolang Observatory is set on a hill next to Bucketty and a short distance from Laguna on the edge of the Hunter Region in New South Wales, Australia.

This private observatory is open on most days and nights, providing a regular programme for visitors. It was set up both to promote astronomy to the wider public and to be used as a teaching tool. School trips to the Koolang Observatory are not uncommon. Private parties of more than 15 can also book viewing time with the telescopes.

The Koolang Observatory has one of the largest telescopes available for public use. This is a 510mm F5 Newtonian reflector telescope which stands about 10 foot tall. The night time programmes include a Full Moon special. On other nights, when the light of the moon is not too bright to occlude other stars, there are unique Moon, Planets & Stars stars. On the new moon, the observatory has special 'Dark Sky' nights, transporting visitors to nearby galaxies and nebulae.

The Koolang Observatory is a truly unique experience, and should be considered as part of a programme touring the vineyards of the Hunter Valley. Why not take some of the fine wines from local vineyards and then relax in good company observing the universe.

Koolang Observatory
RMB 266B George Downs Drive
Bucketty, NSW 2250.
Phone (02) 4998 8216

The Koolang Observatory and Bucketty are about 110km north of Sydney in the Hunter Valley. From Sydney take the 1 Highway north and then the 36 to Central Mangrove. Continue north on the George Downes Drive and then the Great North Road to Bucketty. Look out for large signs directing up the hill on which the observatory is situated.