Schools have the option of booking a tour into the telescope domes. This tour is led by a member of science centre staff and usually lasts 40 – 45 minutes. It is suitable for all ages and is aimed at the level of ability & knowledge of each group. It follows a question & answer format rather than a lecture.
The cost is 75 pence per pupil (accompanying adults, free of charge).
Imagine the ‘wow’ factor for all pupils (and adults!) to sit beneath an historic telescope and discover ‘How the telescopes were used’, ‘What we can learn from them’ and ‘How the astronomers would have worked here when it was The Royal Observatory’. We will talk about the copper clad domes themselves and the logistics of operating these huge telescopes.
The principles of refraction and reflection will be shown by simple demonstrations and the tour normally incorporates a visit to 2 domes – 1 with a refractor telescope and 1 with a reflector telescope.
Access more information about our Astronomy Activities
Downloadable Risk Assessment here
KS3 & KS4 Students with a particular interest in physics / engineering can book a tour to incorporate additional areas (depending on time and availability).