Scottish Dark Sky Observatory facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Scottish Dark Sky Observatory
Scottish Dark Sky Observatory
Organization	Dark Sky Observatory Ltd
Location	Loch Doon, East Ayrshire, Scotland
Coordinates	55°17′28″N 4°24′17″W / 55.29111°N 4.40472°W / 55.29111; -4.40472
Altitude	253 m (830 ft)
Established	2012
Website Dark Sky Observatory
Telescopes 20 inch Planewave f/6.8 CDK reflector telescope 14 inch Celestron f/11 SCT reflector telescope

The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory is an astronomical observatory located near Loch Doon Loch Doon, East Ayrshire, Scotland. It is situated on a hilltop site overlooking the Craigengillan Estate and Dalmellington. The site is located in the northern edge of the Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park, and within the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, with low levels of light pollution and clear horizon views.

The observatory was built through 2012 and as officially open by then First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond. The building and facilities were expanded in 2017 with the addition of a digital planetarium, officially opened by the Lord Lieutenant of Ayrshire and Arran John Duncan. Since opening the observatory has seen visitor numbers increase exponentially, making it one of the top tourist attractions in Scotland.

The SDSO is open all throughout the year, with its main aims involving aiding people of all ages and abilities to learn and experience the wonders of the astronomy and space, and to be a vital educational resource to children in the region.