South Burnett -Maidenwell Astronomical Observatory

Maidenwell Astronomical Observatory is Queensland's largest privately owned astronomical observatory open to the public 6 days and 7 nights a week.

The 30-seater telescope facility was installed to show the night skies where streetlights do not drown out starlight. We are open from 1pm each day Thurs-Tues. to the general public, schools, bus tours groups etc. Night Sessions start at 7.30pm during the Spring/Summer period, and at 7pm during the Autumn/Winter period.

In our new 60-seater Star Theatre during the day, we show you the Sun LIVE! on the big screen. This is where you get to see huge solar prominences, sunspots etc, followed by awesome videos of the Sun and the Solar System. Showtimes are held at 2pm and 4pm Thursdays to Tuesdays (Wednesdays by appointment). Schools can book for whatever time and day of the week suits them. We can cover everything about Space and Astronomy which includes fun quizzes.

This facility is also an ideal stopover for Bus and Coach Tours who are looking for something different to do on their Day or Weekend tours of the South Burnett. A visit to the Observatory, and a sumptous lunch (or dinner at night) at the Maidenwell Hotel is a sure way of making a successful outing for the passengers.

We cater for anyone wishing to observe the Solar System and Beyond using a Meade brand 350mm computerised telescope.