Alston Observatory

Located within the grounds of the University of Central Lancashire in Preston, Alston Observatory is one of the leading public observatories in the north-west of England. Opened in 1974 and named after financier Jeremiah Horrocks Alston, the observatory was created to promote astronomy and public understanding of the night sky. Thanks to its educational role and impressive collection of instruments, it has become a favourite destination for anyone interested in space and science. The observatory is best known for its large dome, which houses a powerful telescope used for public viewing sessions, educational programmes, and astronomical research. During special observing evenings, visitors can view the Moon’s craters in remarkable detail, study planets such as Jupiter and Saturn, and observe distant star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies. The experience offers a fascinating opportunity to see celestial objects that are impossible to appreciate with the naked eye. Inside, visitors can explore displays explaining astronomy, telescope technology, and the history of space exploration. Interactive presentations often introduce topics ranging from the formation of the Solar System to the latest discoveries about distant planets and deep-space objects.