Cawthron Atkinson Observatory, Public observatory in Nelson, New Zealand.
The Cawthron Atkinson Observatory is a public facility in Nelson housing several telescopes for astronomy observations, including a large Schmidt-Cassegrain instrument for detailed sky viewing. The site sits within Clifton Terrace School grounds and operates for visitors interested in seeing celestial objects.
The observatory was founded in 1883 by parliamentarian Arthur Atkinson and has shaped astronomy in the region since then. A major renovation in 2008 modernized the facility for contemporary use.
The Nelson Science Society organizes monthly meetings and public stargazing events at the observatory to promote astronomical education within the community.
The facility opens on Friday nights after sunset, weather permitting, with guided viewing sessions using professional telescopes available. People of all ages can join in for an evening of sky observation.
Located within the grounds of Clifton Terrace School, the observatory maintains the scientific designation code E81 in the international astronomical database.
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