The Dark Sky Observatory

About

Our charity was was formed to facilitate the advancement of science, education, the arts and environmental protection to be achieved by the construction of a new astronomical observatory to complement the Galloway Forest Park's 'International Dark-Sky Association 'gold tier' Dark Sky Park status (awarded 2009). Our former facility, which opened to the public in January 2013, suffered a devastating fire in June 2021. Since that time we have been focussed on settling our insurance claim, we have purchased a new premises in a much more advantageous location, appointed an architect and formed our Design Team. In December 2025 we submitted our application for planning consent to redevelop and extend the existing premises and eagerly await the outcome. In the meantime, while we progress the development of our new premises, we continue to participate in public engagement, offering educational outreach activities in the fields of astronomy, STEM and environmental protection.

Where we work