About Kingaroy Observatory
History of Kingaroy Observatory (formerly Maidenwell Observatory)
We commenced construction in April 2004 and opened to the public on August 16. For the next 10 years it was a roller coaster ride, with 1000's for visitors flocking to view the Southern night skies through our large telescopes. Over those yers we got to see a Transit of Mercury, and Venus, numerous Lunar eclipses and a bright Comet. But as the decade grew, so did the town's outdoor lighting. which is the reason why we moved to our current location - Kingaroy Airport in March 2015. Being so close to the Kingaroy's multitude of Accommodation which Maidenwell does not have, have seen a big increase in visitor numbers
Your host is astronomer James 'StarMan' Barclay, who has over 68 years experience in the Science.
FYI, the Kingaroy Observatory is the largest, self-funded Astro Tourism business in Queensland, Australia.
The facility is 5 minutes from Kingaroy CBD , at the airport, along Geoff Raph Drive.
On a dark, cloud-free night, the visitor gets to look through 35cm (14 inch) Meade Schmidt Cassegrain telescopes.
The Observation-Deck where the telescopes are, can seat up to 45 people & the Star-Theatre 70 seats.
