Siding Spring Observatory (SSO), on the edge of the Warrumbungle National Park near Coonabarabran, NSW, is Australia's premier optical and infrared astronomical observatory. Siding Spring Observatory is located atop Mt Woorut (~1160m) at the end of Observatory Road, 27km west of Coonabarabran on the eastern edge of the Warrumbungle National Park. Coming from Coonabarabran, follow the brown tourist
information signs along the John Renshaw Parkway (or Timor Road) to Siding Spring Observatory. From the west, follow the signs to the Warrumbungle National Park. Travel through the park towards Coonabarabran. The turnoff to Siding Spring Observatory is about 200m past the eastern boundary of the National Park. The weather here can be quite variable. It can be quite warm or at the other extreme quite cool. Sunscreen, a hat, water and a warm coat/jacket are advisable. Please note: During times of Severe Fire Danger and extreme weather events, the observatory will be closed to visitors. If in doubt, please contact us.
