Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory

10/06/2026

"Now, If you can imagine Jupiter and Venus behind these clouds..."

It seems Nature has said "NO SPACE FOR YOU!" on the night where Jupiter and Venus come tantalisingly close. This waltz between the Goddess of Love and the God of Gods would have put on quite an agreeable evening show... if we had clear skies.

Alas, 'twas not to be, so Venus and Jupiter's rendezvous was shrouded in secrecy. But with the magic of Photoshop, we've created a simulation of what it MAY have looked like.

Maybe next time... like, on the 5th June 2036... at 0640 in the morning... before the Sun comes up...

05/06/2026

Have you noticed a couple of unusually bright stars on the horizon just after sunset recently?

Those two aren't just any stars, they are Planets! Venus (the lower) and Jupiter.

These two celestial "Wanderers" will be edging closer to each other as we move through June, apearing closest this Wednesday, 10 June.

Rug up and head outside at sunset to witness this slow, graceful dance of Venus - Goddess of Love and Beauty and Jupiter - the King of Gods.

Eager to discover more stellar knowledge?

Download the amazing app "Stellarium" to access a detailed, interactive map of the night sky (screenshots below).

17/05/2026

Discover the art of Astrophotography with Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory Chief Astronomer, Richard 'Rick' Tonello.

Book online at >>>>

https://gravitycentre.rezdy.com/696164/astronomia-photographica-2026?_ga_data=e30%253D

25/04/2026

Appreciation Post 🤗

--- THANK YOU ---
To the invaluable efforts of those who've volunteered their time, energy and support.

The past few months have been a flurry of activity, often behind the scenes - out of sight.

With pride and gratitude we'd love to acknowledge the efforts of the individuals who have contributed to the Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory, including the countless "after hours" odd jobs our own Staff Team carry out to ensure we deliver our possible best.

✨️ BECOME A VOUNTEER ✨️ 🦸🏻‍♂️ 🦸🏼‍♀️
If you're keen to get involved as a Volunteer or to find out more, please email [email protected]

16/04/2026

Celebrating International Dark Sky Week 2026 from the dark skies at the Gravity Discovery Center Observatory.

Light pollution is a global problem that, not only impedes our ability to study the universe, but also has profound affects on local wildlife, bird-life, insect, amphibian and coastal marine life.

It stems from Artificial Light at Night (A.L.a.N.) - sources such as streetlight, car yard lights, recreational oval lights, lights that light up trees, buildings, statues and churches.

It is over-used, poorly designed outdoor light at night that causes Sky Glow.

Through education and demonstration, we at the GDC Observatory are working towards creating Western Australia's first International Dark Sky Reserve. Its a long and tough road, but we're slowly getting there.

This week we've celebrated International Dark Sky Week with over 120 Scouts, both local and interstate, couples who joined us on our "Date Night" program plus our school holiday patrons from last weekend and this coming weekend.

We always love to share the stars and beautiful night sky with all who visit us.

07/04/2026

Upon closer inspection, the previous post showing the incredible image of Mare Orientale through the window of Artemis II with the Earth rising in the background was, unfortunately, AI.

Lesson learned - look carefully for AI slop posted by a fan-group before sharing.



Here's the real image from Artemis II (this time from the actual NASA website)

Still a great image...

07/04/2026

ATTENTION ASTRO-GEEKS!

There are a few exciting things happening in the month of April.

**INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY WEEK - 13th to 20th April 2026**

Join us to celebrate the wonder of the night during International Dark Sky Week 2026, led by DarkSky International.

At the GDC Observatory, this is more than an event - it’s an invitation to witness one of Earth’s most precious natural resources: a Dark Sky.

Discover the science behind the growing global issue of light pollution, caused by Artificial Light at Night (A.L.a.N.), and learn how it impacts ecosystems, human health, and our ability to explore the universe.

Then experience the real thing...

Stand beneath a stunning night sky where the Milky Way stretches overhead in breathtaking clarity.
Observe through our telescopes to uncover hidden nebulae, star clusters, and distant galaxies—guided by passionate astronomers who bring the universe to life.

Join our Universe Exploration Nights—the ultimate fusion of science, storytelling, and exploration. With the Moon out of the way, this is your chance to observe the faint, “hidden treasures” of deep space all from Western Australia's Dark Sky Observatory.

**International Astronomy Day – 25 April 2026**

Celebrate International Astronomy Day with an unforgettable Lunar Exploration Night.
With the Moon near its First Quarter phase, conditions are perfect to:
Explore the rugged, cratered surface of the Moon—a living record of our Solar System’s violent origins

Witness spectacular deep-sky objects like the Jewel Box Cluster and the awe-inspiring Omega Centauri plus, Observe the “King of the Planets,” Jupiter, in stunning detail

This isn’t just stargazing—it’s hands-on exploration of the universe for all ages.
• Learn from expert astronomers
• Engage with real scientific concepts
• Experience the Universe from Western Australia’s Dark Sky Observatory (only a one hour drive from the Perth CBD)
• Connect with the cosmos in a meaningful, unforgettable way

Your Journey Through the Cosmos Starts Here!

Spaces are limited - book now and be part of an extraordinary science experience under the dark skies of Gingin.

06/04/2026

Not long now! Artemis II is fast approaching the Moon ready to slingshot its way around and head back to Earth.

Track the Artemis II Mission via this link.

NASA explores the unknown in air and space, innovates for the benefit of humanity, and inspires the world through discovery.

30/03/2026

School Holiday Sessions are back!

Launch into the April with Rocket Making, Solar Viewing and nightime Astronomy!

Book your Day Admission + choose a session at https://gravitycentre.rezdy.com/308043/day-admission-school-holidays?_ga_data=e30%253D

27/03/2026

The Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory will be CLOSED today (Saturday, 28 March).

If you require assistance, please email [email protected]

Stay safe all!