10 Things to Do at Carter Observatory in Wellington, New Zealand
Located in the hills of the Wellington suburb of Kelburn, Carter Observatory is New Zealand’s national astronomy centre. Established in 1941, the observatory is a popular tourist destination for those interested in learning more about the night sky and the universe. Here are 10 things to do at Carter Observatory in Wellington, New Zealand.
1. Take a Tour of the Observatory
Take a guided tour of Carter Observatory and learn about the history of astronomy in New Zealand. The tour will take you through the observatory’s exhibits, including the historic Thomas Cooke telescope, which was built in 1868. You’ll also get to explore the planetarium, which is home to a range of interactive displays and multimedia presentations.
2. Attend a Star Gazing Evening
On the first Saturday of every month, Carter Observatory hosts a star gazing evening. During the event, visitors can view the night sky through the observatory’s powerful telescopes and learn about the stars, planets, and other celestial objects.
3. Explore the Exhibits
The observatory’s interactive exhibits are designed to help visitors learn about the night sky and the universe. Explore the displays, which cover topics such as the latest space discoveries, the history of astronomy, and the scientific principles behind star gazing.
4. Take a Telescope Workshop
Carter Observatory offers a range of telescope workshops, which are designed to help visitors learn how to use a telescope and observe the night sky. During the workshop, you’ll learn how to set up and use a telescope, how to identify stars and planets, and how to take pictures of the night sky.
5. Attend a Lecture
Carter Observatory regularly hosts lectures from experts in the field of astronomy. These lectures are open to the public and are a great way to learn more about the universe and the latest discoveries in the field of astronomy.
6. Visit the Astronomy Shop
The observatory’s astronomy shop has a range of telescopes, binoculars, books, and other astronomy-related items. You can also purchase a range of souvenirs, including t-shirts, mugs, and other items.
7. View the Night Sky
Carter Observatory has a range of powerful telescopes, which are available for visitors to use to view the night sky. You can even take pictures of the stars and planets through the telescope’s camera.
8. Take a Stargazing Cruise
Carter Observatory offers stargazing cruises, which take visitors out to sea to view the night sky. During the cruise, you’ll get to use the observatory’s powerful telescopes to view the stars and planets up close.
9. Visit the Carter Observatory Café
The Carter Observatory Café is a great place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or a light snack. The café also has a range of astronomy-themed items for sale, including books, posters, and souvenirs.
10. Take a Telescope Class
Carter Observatory offers a range of telescope classes, which are designed to help visitors learn how to use a telescope and observe the night sky. During the class, you’ll learn how to set up and use a telescope, how to identify stars and planets, and how to take pictures of the night sky.
Carter Observatory is a great destination for anyone interested in learning more about the night sky and the universe. With a range of tours, exhibits, lectures, and workshops, there’s something for everyone at the observatory. So if you’re in Wellington, be sure to check out Carter Observatory and all it has to offer.