GALLERY: Mills Observatory marks 90 years with stargazing sessions, talks and delicious food
- Andrew Batchelor
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Mills Observatory marked its 90th anniversary with a one-night-only celebration that drew a packed audience to Dundee’s beloved hilltop landmark.
The evening brought together stargazing, inspiring talks and delicious food supplied by Eastfield – the same local caterers behind the observatory’s solar eclipse event earlier this year.
The event also marked the official start of Mills Observatory’s 2025/26 season, celebrating nine decades since its opening in 1935 as the UK’s first purpose-built public astronomical observatory.
Visitors were treated to clear skies and stunning views of the Moon through Mills’ telescopes, setting the perfect scene for a night of reflection and discovery.
Talks were given by Anna Day, Head of Cultural Services for Leisure and Culture Dundee; Scotland’s Astronomer Royal, Professor Catherine Heymans; and author Julie Farrell, who captivated the audience with an emotional essay reading about her “lifelong love affair with the stars.”
Their words celebrated both the science and the sense of wonder that have defined Mills Observatory for generations.
Guests enjoyed food and refreshments by Eastfield, adding to the warm and celebratory atmosphere of the night.
The event was a testament to the dedication of Mills’ staff and volunteers, who have worked tirelessly to keep the observatory a welcoming and inspiring space for all.
The celebration follows a remarkable turnaround for Mills Observatory. After facing the threat of closure in recent years, a strong social media campaign helped spark a resurgence of public support and visitor interest.
During the 2024/25 season alone, 14,703 people visited the observatory – a 120% increase on the previous year – showing just how deeply Dundee’s community values its connection to the stars.
That success has been recognised nationally, with an Early Day Motion in the UK Parliament acknowledging Mills Observatory’s historic importance and community impact.
The observatory’s revival stands as a shining example of how public engagement and local pride can keep cultural landmarks thriving.
In a message shared online, Mills Observatory said: “Today we’re celebrating 90 years of stargazing at Mills Observatory! We’ve been thrilled by the support shown by astronomy fans all over Dundee and beyond this past year. Here’s to many more years of exploring the stars together.”
As Mills Observatory enters its 2025/26 season, the anniversary event was not only a celebration of its past but a hopeful look to its bright future above Dundee’s skyline
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