Arabic version: مرصد باورهاوس باراماتا يفتح نافذة جديدة على الفضاء

According to ABC News, Powerhouse Parramatta in Western Sydney now has a rooftop observatory equipped with research-grade telescopes capable of recording distant galaxies. The $915 million museum is scheduled to officially open on November 7 with five exhibitions.

The observatory has two narrow-field telescopes for smaller, more distant objects and two wide-field telescopes for broader views. Rather than being viewed through directly, the telescopes use sensors to collect data, including light across different colours. Their sliding rooftop ceiling can be operated remotely and automatically closes during rain or other unfavourable weather.

Astrophysics PhD student Nada Salama said the facility would provide Western Sydney residents with access to powerful, industry-grade instruments. She said the telescopes could observe star clusters and larger nebulae, where stars are born. Researchers worldwide may use collected data without being physically present, while others can access the observatory remotely or through residencies.

The site is about 500 metres from Australia’s first private observatory, built by Governor Thomas Brisbane between 1821 and 1822 and known for cataloguing southern hemisphere stars. Powerhouse’s Lang Walker Family Academy will host up to 10,000 NSW students annually for overnight experiences. Targeting years 7 to 10, the program will let students select celestial objects, collect scientific data and meet astronomers, researchers, artists and astronauts staying in rooftop residencies.