Centre of the Universe

Centre of the Universe We are the Centre of the Universe, the visitors' centre at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory in Victoria, BC, Canada.

We're dedicated to public science outreach and welcoming visitors from everywhere! We are a non-profit BC-registered Society based in Victoria, B.C. dedicated to promoting public science outreach at the DAO. We aim to revitalize its public programming and visitors centre, the Centre of the Universe.

Come for the telescope. 🔭 Stay for the conversations and an experience that's out of this world.   At Centre of the Univ...
06/15/2026

Come for the telescope. 🔭 Stay for the conversations and an experience that's out of this world.

At Centre of the Universe, small groups make space for curiosity. Explore hands-on exhibits that leave you feel starry-eyed and connect with real astronomers and scientists at an active astronomical research facility ✨

06/03/2026

Perched above Victoria, Centre of the Universe has been a hub for active astronomical research for over 100 years. The observatory has left it’s mark on the science community as a place to explore and unveil the mysteries of the universe. (Did you know The Plaskett Telescope played a major roll in mapping out the Milky Way?)

Plus, the views are pretty spectacular.

Once in a blue moon do we get to talk about one of the sky’s most misunderstood names! 🌕💙  A Blue Moon is coming on May ...
05/25/2026

Once in a blue moon do we get to talk about one of the sky’s most misunderstood names! 🌕💙

A Blue Moon is coming on May 31 so we've prepared a few fun facts and how the phrase came to be.

🌌From science to scenery, there's nothing quite like Centre of the Universe!  Visit us to see what has everyone looking ...
05/13/2026

🌌From science to scenery, there's nothing quite like Centre of the Universe!

Visit us to see what has everyone looking up! 🔭

Skip the orbital mechanics and come straight to us during our daytime hours for an easy trip to the cosmos. You'll see t...
05/08/2026

Skip the orbital mechanics and come straight to us during our daytime hours for an easy trip to the cosmos. You'll see the historic Plaskett Telescope, explore exhibits, and enjoy a planetarium show—no space suit required.

We are open Friday and Saturday 12pm -6pm.

Plan your terrestrial trip to the Centre of the Universe today! Link in bio to get your ticket today!

 

Happy Anniversary to our incredible telescope!On this day, we celebrate a monumental achievement that put Canada on the ...
05/07/2026

Happy Anniversary to our incredible telescope!

On this day, we celebrate a monumental achievement that put Canada on the map for modern astrophysics. Our 72-inch telescope, which first opened its doors to the public in June 1918, was once the world’s largest telescope that an ordinary visitor could look through.

From the discovery of "Plaskett’s Star" in 1922 to establishing Canada as a leading nation in astronomy, the DAO telescope has a long and storied history.

Join us this summer and become part of the continuing tradition! Visit our website for Star Party dates, events and information.

Happy National Space Day 🌙Space is not just something to read about. It is something to explore, question, and experienc...
05/01/2026

Happy National Space Day 🌙

Space is not just something to read about. It is something to explore, question, and experience for yourself.🚀

At Centre of the Universe, curiosity comes to life through guided tours, hands-on exhibits, immersive science experiences, and conversations with real astronomers and scientists.

⭐️ Celebrate National Space Day with us this weekend, and keep the wonder going at our Star Party tomorrow.

Star Party tickets are released 11 days prior to each Star Party at 5pm.These by donation, limited-capacity tickets go q...
04/24/2026

Star Party tickets are released 11 days prior to each Star Party at 5pm.

These by donation, limited-capacity tickets go quickly, so mark your calendar and set an alarm! Get yours on our website—the link is always right here in our bio.

Happy Earth Day from the Centre of the Universe! Join us this April 25th for a special look at our incredible planet and...
04/22/2026

Happy Earth Day from the Centre of the Universe!
Join us this April 25th for a special look at our incredible planet and its celestial neighbourhood from a cosmic perspective, as we celebrate Earth Day and International Astronomy Day! Enjoy activities, expert-led tours, and hands-on science fun perfect for families and space lovers alike. 
We are open on Saturday from 12 - 6pm (last gate entrance is at 4:45)

Let’s appreciate our home in the stars together!

Link in bio for tickets.

Congratulations,  Artemis II!
04/11/2026

Congratulations, Artemis II!

Around the Moon and back. Watch the Artemis II astronauts come home.NASA's Artemis II mission is splashing down in the Pacific Ocean at about 8:07 p.m. EDT o...

Address

5071 West Saanich Road
Victoria, BC
V9E2E7

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