Public Open Evenings

Come and Visit the Clanfield Observatory

Public Open Evenings at Clanfield Observatory

These evenings are ticketed events for the public to explore the planets and the universe, at the UK's largest amateur observatory facility. Places are limited so booking early is advised.

The evenings start with a presentation on visitors' safety. This is followed with an observing session using our telescopes and binoculars. Light refreshments will be served, and the evening will finish with a short illustrated talk.

In the event of bad weather, the event will still go ahead with an observatory tour, refreshments and the talk, and we will invite you back to the observatory free of charge to complete the observing activity on another (clear) night.

Please remember that the temperature can fall quickly after dark, especially in the mid winter months, so your choice of clothing and footwear should be dictated by warmth and comfort rather than fashion! Visitors should also view our helpful Safety Information, which contains useful advice on how to prepare for your visit to the observatory.

 

What Can I See?

We always try to organise our monthly Open Evenings (available during the autumn, winter and spring months) around astronomical objects that are best seen during that period.

These can range from other galaxies and nebula far out in space, what astronomers call ‘deep space objects', to objects within our solar system such as the moon, planets and comets when they are visible.

 

How do I book?

Our Open Evenings are in great demand. All Open Evenings are released for booking a couple of months before the season, so please do keep in contact so you can book your place when the dates are released.

Prices per evening are £15.00 Adults, Children £8.00 (lower age limit of eight) including refreshments.

If you have difficulty with making a booking, you can email Steve Knight. Email: visits@hantsastro.org.uk or mobile: 07761 853560 between 10am and 6pm.

2023

Saturday,
9th December
2023
7:15pm Public Open Evening
Saturn & Jupiter
SOLD OUT
Sunday,
10th December
2023
7:15pm Public Open Evening
Saturn & Jupiter
SOLD OUT


2024

Saturday,
20th January
2024
7:15pm Public Open Evening
Moon, Jupiter & Orion
SOLD OUT
Sunday,
21st January
2024
7:15pm Public Open Evening
Moon, Jupiter & Orion
SOLD OUT
Saturday,
17th February
2024
7:15pm Public Open Evening
Moon, Jupiter & Orion
SOLD OUT
Sunday,
18th February
2024
7:15pm Public Open Evening
Moon, Jupiter & Orion
SOLD OUT
Saturday,
2nd March
2024
7:15pm Public Open Evening
Jupiter & Orion
SOLD OUT
Sunday,
3rd March
2024
7:15pm Public Open Evening
Jupiter & Orion
SOLD OUT
Saturday,
16th March
2024
7:00pm Public Open Evening
Moon, Jupiter & Orion
SOLD OUT
Sunday,
17th March
2024
7:15pm Public Open Evening
Moon, Jupiter & Orion
SOLD OUT


We publish new dates around mid-April and mid-September every year, so check back then for the latest information.