Research Observatory

The information below details only some of the projects that we are working on at the observatory. You are welcome to come and view the research facility’s various space, mineral fossil and meteorite displays via prior bookings.

AMP Tomorrow Maker 2015 – Ray Pickard

Research Telescope and Partnership!

We are currently reinstalling our research telescope inside the refurbished observatory dome. This telescope will be used for asteroid research, imaging, and education. It will also be used for other research projects as required.

Meteorites

We have an interest in meteorites and use them to help us understand how the solar system may have formed. We also study meteorites to help us learn more about the make up of the asteroids and meteors that we study at the observatory. We have a large number of meteorites on display, and if you think you have found a meteorite, we can help with meteorite identification. You can also report any very bright meteors (shooting stars) or meteorite falls to us as well. We pass on this information to the relevant researches, or use this information for our research papers.

We are always happy to answer any questions you may on meteorites, such as meteorite types, places to buy them from, and often present talks to groups on meteorites and asteroids. We can also offer unbiased appraisals, valuations and recommendations. We do occasionally have some meteorites for sale as well.

Comets

Comet research is also one of the main projects undertaken at the observatory.

Comet McNaught on the 20th January 2007 from the Bathurst Observatory Research Facility

Comet McNaught on the 20th January 2007 from the Bathurst Observatory Research Facility

Data about comets can be obtained by contacting the observatory.

Variable Stars

A number of stars change brightness over a period of time. By monitoring them over a long period, we can understand the nature of these stars. At Bathurst Observatory, we have a few selected stars that are best studied from the Southern Hemisphere that we are monitoring. Our results are submitted to the AAVSO.