New £1.5million observatory to be developed in Galloway Forest Park

A new £1.5 million observatory is in the works to be developed in the Galloway Forest Park, as reported by the Daily Record. The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory (SDSO) has plans to convert the old visitor centre situated on the banks of Clatteringshaws into this new venture. The organization had been searching for a new location following a fire that destroyed their previous observatory in Dalmellington last year. Issues with access, utilities, and security made it impossible to return to the previous site. Thanks to a £200,000 grant from South of Scotland Enterprise, the SDSO has acquired the visitor centre from Forestry and Land Scotland, which had closed the site last year. The anticipated opening for the new observatory is as early as 2026.

Marc Charron, the board chairman of SDSO, expressed his excitement about securing the purchase of the new location and their commitment to creating an exceptional facility to inspire future generations in exploring the wonders of the night sky. The Galloway Forest Park holds the title of Scotland’s only gold tier Dark Sky Park, awarded by the International Dark Sky Association in 2009.

The new observatory will include two observing domes with large telescopes, a 360-degree planetarium, educational and exhibition spaces, a gift shop, and a cafe. It is expected to create employment opportunities and volunteer positions for the local community. Anthony Daye, the interim place and enterprise director of South of Scotland Enterprise, highlighted the observatory’s significance in utilizing natural resources for regional development and enhancing the tourism sector in the south of Scotland.

The South of Scotland Destination Alliance has been lending support to the observatory group, with CEO David Hope-Jones emphasizing the extension of the visitor season through the attraction of tourists during off-peak and winter months. This initiative is projected not only to create more jobs but also to support local businesses such as restaurants and cafes to operate for extended periods.

Professor Catherine Heymans, the Astronomer Royal for Scotland, is expected to become the patron of SDSO and praised Scotland’s dark sky sites for their profound beauty away from urban lights. She expressed confidence in the new Scottish Dark Sky Observatory at Clatteringshaws Loch, poised to rise as a larger and improved version of its predecessor.

The development of the observatory signifies an exciting prospect for the region, blending astronomy with tourism to create a unique visitor experience.

In summary, the new £1.5 million observatory being developed in Galloway Forest Park by the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory is a significant project that aims to inspire generations with the wonders of the night sky. The creation of this observatory not only enhances the region’s natural assets but also boosts tourism and economic opportunities. With plans for state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on community involvement, the observatory is set to become a key attraction, extending the region’s visitor season and supporting local businesses. As Scotland’s only gold tier Dark Sky Park, Galloway Forest Park is an ideal setting for this innovative project, promising a remarkable experience for stargazers and enthusiasts alike.