The Rosse Observatory in Pontefract, West Yorkshire, is an amateur astronomical observatory operated by the West Yorkshire Astronomical Society (WYAS).
Opened in 1969 and named in honour of the 3rd Earl of Rosse, famous for building the “Leviathan of Parsonstown” telescope in the 19th century, it serves as both a hub for local astronomy enthusiasts and a centre for public outreach.
The observatory houses a range of telescopes, including a large Newtonian reflector, and provides opportunities for members and visitors to observe the Moon, planets, deep-sky objects, and seasonal celestial events.
With regular open evenings, talks, and educational activities, the Rosse Observatory plays an important role in inspiring interest in astronomy across the local community.
Location events organiser
West Yorkshire Astronomical Society organises events at this location
Please contact West Yorkshire Astronomical Society directly with any enquiries relating to visiting this location
Email: [email protected]
Website: West Yorkshire Astronomical Society
Facebook: West Yorkshire Astronomical Society
Weather forecast
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25/04/26
19° 1% -
25/04/26
19° 0% -
25/04/26
12° 5% -
26/04/26
8° 8%
Weather forecast for Pontefract (1.1 miles away) updated 25/04/26 at 06:01. Powered by Met Office data.
Local light pollution
Rosse Observatory is estimated to have light pollution levels similar to a suburban location based on the latest data from the VIIRS satellite. For more advanced light pollution data, view this location on DarkSkySites.
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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 25th Apr
Sun 26th Apr
Mon 27th Apr
Tue 28th Apr
Wed 29th Apr
Thu 30th Apr
Fri 1st May
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 Rosse 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.