Our Community Access Programme

We are pleased to be able to share the wonders of the Universe with our local community via our Community Access Programme.

The programme offers members of the local community the opportunity to visit the J.A. Jones Hoober Observatory and, weather permitting, use a telescope. Some events also feature a narrated slideshow presentation.

Summer Drop-in Events

We are currently offering the public the chance to observe our nearest star, the Sun, in safety. These events are part of our Solar Pioneer project, funded partly by the European Union through the Objective 1 Programme in South Yorkshire and partly by the Single Regeneration Budget.

There is no need to pre-book these events, simply turn up on the day (the Observatory may be closed if weather conditions prevent solar observation). For further information, dates of forthcoming events and fees, see our Solar Programme page.

Evening Pre-booked Events

The observatory is open to the general public, usually two or three nights per month during the winter. The programme for these events consists of a narrated slideshow and, weather permitting, use of the telescope. The event will normally last approximately 2 to 3 hours. Visitors are reminded to wear warm clothing and sensible footwear. Advance booking is essential and small fee is charged. For further information, dates of forthcoming events and fees, see our Viewing Evening Programme page.

Please note that for your safety and comfort we cannot accept more than 20 visitors per event.

School & Community Groups

School, youth and community groups can also arrange to visit the observatory on dates other than those listed. Please contact us to discuss individual requirements.

Please note that for your safety and comfort we cannot accept more than 20 visitors per event.

Special Events

In addition to our regular Summer and Winter Evening programmes, and service for School and groups, we also run occasional special events. For example we ran a week of Mars observing sessions in support of National Astronomy Week or an open weekend for the closest approach of Comet Hale-Bopp.

Further details of forthcoming meetings and Community Access Programme events can be found in our programme.