Mount Stromlo Observatory

Mount Stromlo Observatory is a historic astronomical observatory operated by the Australian National University, located on Mount Stromlo about 18 km southwest of central Canberra in the Australian Capital Territory. Established in 1924 as the Commonwealth Solar Observatory, it became Australia's leading optical astronomy research site. Largely destroyed in the 2003 Canberra bushfires, its restored domes, ruins and working telescopes remain a significant scientific and heritage attraction.

Visitors can explore an open mountaintop site with historic telescope domes, ruins preserved from the 2003 bushfires, working research telescopes, and a Visitor Centre with exhibits on astronomy and the site's history. The setting offers panoramic views over Canberra and the Molonglo Valley, landscaped grounds, heritage walking trails with interpretive signage, and opportunities for daytime sightseeing and occasional evening stargazing events.