Mount Stromlo Observatory
The former observatory of the Australian National University, with scorched telescope domes left from the 2003 bushfires and a rebuilt precinct. It also has popular mountain bike trails.
Mount Stromlo Observatory was founded in 1924 and became a major centre of Australian astronomy research. In 2003, bushfires in Canberra destroyed several telescopes and workshops, and the charred dome remains are kept as a memorial. The precinct has a visitor centre and café, where you can learn about the observatory's history, and views over the city and the arboretum. The Stromlo Forest Park at the foot of the mountain has many mountain biking and running trails. Entry to the precinct is free, and it is about 15 km from the city centre.
Opening hours
Grounds open during the day
Nearby sights
- National Zoo & Aquarium
- National Arboretum Canberra
- Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex
- Royal Australian Mint
- Telstra Tower (Black Mountain Tower)
- Lake Burley Griffin
- Australian National Botanic Gardens
- National Museum of Australia