The Ballarat Municipal Observatory was opened on the 11th of May 1886 and is celebrating its 140th Anniversary on Saturday, the 9th of May 2026. To celebrate this anniversary, it will be open on the 9th of May 2026 from 2 pm to 10 pm with FREE admission to visitors. Whilst not necessary, a gold coin donation would be greatly appreciated. The Ballaarat Astronomical Society is organising this event. Several tours of this heritage-listed Municipal Observatory will be held. A 30-minute guided tour of the Ballarat Municipal Observatory and Museum. Learn about our historical site, buildings and telescopes. The Science Shop will be open after the tour, where you can purchase souvenirs and other goodies (cash or bank transfer only). Please note: The tour includes several stairs and is unfortunately not suitable for wheelchair users. Bookings are essential for this Event to ensure that visitors have a great experience, and can be made through TryBooking. The following events are available during the Day: 2:00 – 2:45 Guide Tour of the Observatory 3:00 – 3:45 Guide Tour of the Observatory 4:00 – 4:45 James Oddie by Anne Beggs-Sunter 5:00 – 5:45 Guide Tour of the Observatory 6:00 – 6:45 Guide Tour of the Observatory 7:00 – 7:45 Guide Tour of the Observatory or Telescope Viewing, weather permitting 8:00 – 8:45 Guide Tour of the Observatory or Telescope Viewing, weather permitting 9:00 – 9:45 Guide Tour of the Observatory or Telescope Viewing, weather permitting Please note that each session is limited to 30 people to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone. The Ballarat Astronomical Society reserves the right to alter the topic of any session presented on the day of the event.