Set within the private grounds of Marlborough College is the fabulous Blackett Observatory. It is home to an incredible 10″ Cooke refractor steeped in history that offers stunning views of the Cosmos! Observing is organised by the observatory’s enthusiastic Director, Gavin James.
The observatory is not often open to the public; however, the facility is accessible to those outside the College interested in Astronomy. For example, you can become a ‘Friend of the Marlborough telescope‘, which costs just a few pounds per year, and in return, you will be given access to their stargazing events diary, arrange private visits and attend regular lectures at the College.
Location events organiser
Blackett Observatory organises events at this location
Please contact Blackett Observatory directly with any enquiries relating to visiting this location
Email: [email protected]
Website: Blackett Observatory
Weather forecast
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19/04/25
15° 4% -
19/04/25
11° 3% -
20/04/25
7° 3% -
20/04/25
5° 1%
Weather forecast for Marlborough (0.7 miles away) updated 19/04/25 at 20:01.
Local light pollution
Blackett Observatory is estimated to have light pollution levels similar to asemi-rural semi-rural location based on the latest data from the VIIRS satellite.
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Urban
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Suburban
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Semi-rural
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Rural
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Dark site
The above demonstrates the estimated effect of light pollution - graphics created using Stellarium.
Best time to visit
The below chart shows when the skies will be at their darkest at this location and therefore the best time to visit. Moonlight is shown in light yellow and the Sun's twilight in light blue. Midnight on the date shown is shown as a white line with sunset to the left and sunrise the next morning to the right. A black background with stars shows the best times for stargazing. See our dark sky calendar for more details.
Sat 19th Apr
Sun 20th Apr
Mon 21st Apr
Tue 22nd Apr
Wed 23rd Apr
Thu 24th Apr
Fri 25th Apr
Find more dates
If you are planning to visit this location check our dark sky calendar to find out when is best!
CalendarForthcoming events
Below is a list of events at Blackett Observatory. View these events on our calendar, add them to your calendar or Google Calendar.
Stay and gaze nearby
Stay at one of these stargazing-friendly accommodation providers.