Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory

17/05/2026

**ATTENTION DIGITAL CAMERA OWNERS!**

Had enough of taking phots of Sunsets, landscapes, birds and children? Do you want to expand your photographic repertoire into the night-time environment? Fancy Capturing the Cosmos with your OWN camera?

Then sign-up for ASTRONOMIA PHOTOGRAPHICA where we teach you the dark-art of astrophotography.

This three week is presented by GDC Observatory Chief Astronomer, Richard (Rick) Tonello where he will draw upon thirty years’ experience in astrophotography.
In this course, we will teach:
• Astro-Scape, Wide Field and Deep Sky Astrophotography techniques
• The Art of Astronomical Time-Lapse – Putting the Sky in Motion
• How to capture the Aurora Australis (& Borealis)
• Setting up your camera to “Capture the Cosmos”
• Equipment you have (and want to buy)
• How to Calibrate, Stack and process your astro-images using free software.

Classes are conducted in our “Virtual Classroom” (aka ZOOM) except for our Practical Night which is held under the protected, Dark Skies at the GDC Observatory.

Course Synopsis:
Week #1: 9th June
A Brief History of Astrophotography, Astrophotography Equipment, Camera Settings and preparing for your Field Night at the GDC Observatory.

Week #2: 16th June
Practical Night at the GDC Observatory (own transport and camera equipment required)

Week #3: 23rd June
Processing your images using free software SEQUATOR and Deep Sky Stacker
To Book, click on the link below:

https://gravitycentre.rezdy.com/696164/astronomia-photographica-2026?_ga_data=e30%253D

Each ZOOM Class is two hours in duration. Own transport to the Observatory is required.

25/04/2026

Appreciation Post 🤗

--- THANK YOU ---
To the invaluable efforts of those who've volunteered their time, energy and support.

The past few months have been a flurry of activity, often behind the scenes - out of sight.

With pride and gratitude we'd love to acknowledge the efforts of the individuals who have contributed to the Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory, including the countless "after hours" odd jobs our own Staff Team carry out to ensure we deliver our possible best.

✨️ BECOME A VOUNTEER ✨️ 🦸🏻‍♂️ 🦸🏼‍♀️
If you're keen to get involved as a Volunteer or to find out more, please email [email protected]

16/04/2026

Celebrating International Dark Sky Week 2026 from the dark skies at the Gravity Discovery Center Observatory.

Light pollution is a global problem that, not only impedes our ability to study the universe, but also has profound affects on local wildlife, bird-life, insect, amphibian and coastal marine life.

It stems from Artificial Light at Night (A.L.a.N.) - sources such as streetlight, car yard lights, recreational oval lights, lights that light up trees, buildings, statues and churches.

It is over-used, poorly designed outdoor light at night that causes Sky Glow.

Through education and demonstration, we at the GDC Observatory are working towards creating Western Australia's first International Dark Sky Reserve. Its a long and tough road, but we're slowly getting there.

This week we've celebrated International Dark Sky Week with over 120 Scouts, both local and interstate, couples who joined us on our "Date Night" program plus our school holiday patrons from last weekend and this coming weekend.

We always love to share the stars and beautiful night sky with all who visit us.

07/04/2026

Upon closer inspection, the previous post showing the incredible image of Mare Orientale through the window of Artemis II with the Earth rising in the background was, unfortunately, AI.

Lesson learned - look carefully for AI slop posted by a fan-group before sharing.



Here's the real image from Artemis II (this time from the actual NASA website)

Still a great image...

07/04/2026

ATTENTION ASTRO-GEEKS!

There are a few exciting things happening in the month of April.

**INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY WEEK - 13th to 20th April 2026**

Join us to celebrate the wonder of the night during International Dark Sky Week 2026, led by DarkSky International.

At the GDC Observatory, this is more than an event - it’s an invitation to witness one of Earth’s most precious natural resources: a Dark Sky.

Discover the science behind the growing global issue of light pollution, caused by Artificial Light at Night (A.L.a.N.), and learn how it impacts ecosystems, human health, and our ability to explore the universe.

Then experience the real thing...

Stand beneath a stunning night sky where the Milky Way stretches overhead in breathtaking clarity.
Observe through our telescopes to uncover hidden nebulae, star clusters, and distant galaxies—guided by passionate astronomers who bring the universe to life.

Join our Universe Exploration Nights—the ultimate fusion of science, storytelling, and exploration. With the Moon out of the way, this is your chance to observe the faint, “hidden treasures” of deep space all from Western Australia's Dark Sky Observatory.

**International Astronomy Day – 25 April 2026**

Celebrate International Astronomy Day with an unforgettable Lunar Exploration Night.
With the Moon near its First Quarter phase, conditions are perfect to:
Explore the rugged, cratered surface of the Moon—a living record of our Solar System’s violent origins

Witness spectacular deep-sky objects like the Jewel Box Cluster and the awe-inspiring Omega Centauri plus, Observe the “King of the Planets,” Jupiter, in stunning detail

This isn’t just stargazing—it’s hands-on exploration of the universe for all ages.
• Learn from expert astronomers
• Engage with real scientific concepts
• Experience the Universe from Western Australia’s Dark Sky Observatory (only a one hour drive from the Perth CBD)
• Connect with the cosmos in a meaningful, unforgettable way

Your Journey Through the Cosmos Starts Here!

Spaces are limited - book now and be part of an extraordinary science experience under the dark skies of Gingin.

06/04/2026

Not long now! Artemis II is fast approaching the Moon ready to slingshot its way around and head back to Earth.

Track the Artemis II Mission via this link.

NASA explores the unknown in air and space, innovates for the benefit of humanity, and inspires the world through discovery.

30/03/2026

School Holiday Sessions are back!

Launch into the April with Rocket Making, Solar Viewing and nightime Astronomy!

Book your Day Admission + choose a session at https://gravitycentre.rezdy.com/308043/day-admission-school-holidays?_ga_data=e30%253D

27/03/2026

The Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory will be CLOSED today (Saturday, 28 March).

If you require assistance, please email [email protected]

Stay safe all!

18/03/2026

Gday All ;) Here it is!

This year's event outline for the upcoming DARK SKY STAR PARTY.

Gates open 2pm Friday, then from 10am Saturday with check in right up until 7pm at the latest :)

Check in station is just inside the Neergabby Reserve gates. Each attendee receives their wristband and Event Guide on check in.

Make sure to wear your wristband the whole weekend to access great local offers, including from:

Limestone Stud and Bird Farm
Moore River Brewing
Caladebia Mini Golf + Botanic Gardens
CU @ Park, Gingin Cafe
Gingin Hotel
Local Goat Cheese + Gelato
Little Eeden Honey Farm
Siverina Estate

We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful region this weekend. Safe Travels