Star Watching at Thala’s Observatory

On clear dark nights, mankind has always been drawn by the infinite and compelling mysteries of the stars and galaxies that sparkle overhead. But for many of us it is hard to know where to start.

Our night sky is free from light pollution and is filled with millions of stars. Using a light beam we can give you an introduction to the beautiful Southern Constellations, most of which can not be seen at all from Europe or North America.

In more detail, you can see open star clusters with our astronomical binoculars. Then with our 10” telescopes, you will have an opportunity to look more closely at our celestial neighbours, red giants, star clusters, nebulae where stars are being born, globular clusters , and distant galaxies. At Thala, the centre of our Milky Way galaxy passes almost directly overhead.

In the right conditions, this is more than a casual glance at the Southern Cross. The nearest sun to our own is one of the pointers (Alpha Centuri); it will reveal a further surprise when viewed through our telescopes.

The ‘Jewel Box’ is a magnificent star cluster embedded in the Southern Cross with many different coloured stars, purple, red, blue, yellow and white.

The ‘Coal Sack’ is a vast dark nebula also in the Southern Cross. By the end of this evening, we hope you will see the Southern Cross on the Aussie flag as a symbol of wonderment !

In this flicker of cosmic time with us, we hope that you will gain new insights into the rich and beautiful mysteries above the Land Down Under.

Please note:
Guided star gazing is complimentary for house guests and nights of operation varies week-to-week. We do not profess to be expert astronomers. If you have a serious interest and experience in star watching please join our guided stargazing at our Observatory for an evening with our resident galaxy guide Rose Wyatt.