After weeks of planning and preparation we are excited to welcome visitors back to Mills Observatory, just in time to kick start our winter season!
Gifted to the people of Dundee in 1935, Mills Observatory is Britain’s first purpose built public observatory. The facility is named after linen and twine manufacturer John Mills, who gifted money in his will for the observatory to be constructed.
Located on the peak of Balgay Hill surrounded by magnificent woodland surroundings, more than 10,000 people each year visit The Observatory and make use of its unique facilities. On the upper level of the building you can enjoy breath-taking views of the stars and planets through the impressive Victorian refracting telescope.
Recently there has been work has been carried out to repair the Observatory’s star feature… The Dome! Specialist work to repair the historical dome, made of papier-mâché and a steel framework began in August with a planned re-launch event scheduled for November. During this time The Creative Learning team have been orbiting between our studio space and Mills Observatory preparing, re-stocking and re-vamping all our learning resources! From Art-Cart turned Astro-Cart, Aliens to Astronaut costumes and word searches to workshops… just in time to begin our exciting Winter Programme!
On Friday the 1st November we were delighted to host a re-opening event and kick start Mills Observatory’s Winter Programme! Celebrations began in the afternoon with a creative learning activity in the Planetarium with local P5/6 school children from Ancrum Primary School and our first Mills Observatory ‘Young Ambassador’ Rocco Phin from Grange Primary School. Living History characters John Mills and Wilhelmina Fleming appeared around the Observatory to surprise and chat to guests. Afterwards speeches were given by Our Head of Cultural Services and Lead Trustee and the children were presented with Certificates and exclusive Mills Observatory goodie bags. To conclude the afternoon guests were then invited to explore the Observatory, view the Dome, speak to staff and partners, view digital displays in the Planetarium and enjoy a slice of our delicious Mills Observatory Cake!
We also premiered a short film created by Artist David Scott to mark the occasion. The film features stunning views of the Observatory and displays the construction of a children’s and adult’s telescope which are both available to buy from the Observatory shop. The film was displayed on the ground level of the building which provides a changing display of pictures and models as well as self-directed activities for any budding young astronomers to enjoy!
During October to March, the Planetarium shows provide the chance to learn about constellations, planets and other jewels of the night sky. If you’re curious about comets, mystified by meteors, the friendly staff at Mills have the answers. There are also displays on solar system and space exploration. On selected dates visitors can enjoy a varied programme of public events including family workshops, planetarium shows, talks and Solar viewings.
For more information about Visitor Opening Hours and Activities at Mills Observatory please Visit
http://www.lesiureandculturedundee.com/mills-home or find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!
McManus Creative Learning 