Planetarium Show Nights at The Mills
Step into The Mills Lecture Room and join a member of our team for a captivating journey through the cosmos. These engaging talks explore the wonders of the night sky — perfect for curious minds of all ages!
Show Dates & Times
Shows take place at 7:00pm, 8:00pm, and 9:00pm on the following Fridays:
- October: 3rd & 17th, 2025
- November: 7th & 21st, 2025
- December: 5th & 19th, 2025
- January: 16th & 30th, 2026
- February: 6th & 20th, 2026
- March: 6th & 20th, 2026
Booking Details
- Booking is essential – limited to 25 visitors per show
- Phone bookings only – call 01382 435967 to reserve your space
- Due to high demand and previous no-shows, bookings open one month in advance only
Admission
- Adults: £3.00
- Children: £1.50
Cancellations
If you're unable to attend, please let us know so we can offer your space to someone else.
Mills Observatory
Mills Observatory to Celebrate 90 Years of Stargazing
Leisure & Culture Dundee is delighted to announce the reopening of Mills Observatory for the 2025/26 winter season, starting Wednesday 1 October. Open six nights a week, the observatory invites visitors to explore the wonders of the night sky through its powerful telescopes and enjoy breathtaking views from the iconic Balgay Hill landmark in the city.
This season is particularly special as it marks the 90th anniversary of Mills Observatory. A celebratory programme of events and activities will be unveiled soon, promising memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
Following a record-breaking season last year, which welcomed over 14,000 visitors, the observatory is introducing a new free booking system for access to the historic dome. This trial aims to reduce waiting times during busy periods and enhance the visitor experience. Entry to the lower level and outdoor viewing platform does not require booking.
To celebrate the reopening, visitors can now book a free slot to step inside the dome from 1–10 October at millsdome.eventbrite.co.uk.
Frequently asked questions
We have multiple telescopes located within the dome of the observatory, which a member of staff will help you operate to view the night sky. Please Note – night sky viewing is weather dependant, we need a dry evening with clear skies to open our dome and use the telescopes. As a general rule of thumb – if you can see the stars from where you are, you will get a better view through our telescopes – so come and see us!
Entry to the observatory and the use of all equipment is free, but we do gladly accept donations. Donations boxes are located throughout the building, and a member of staff can direct you to one if required.
There is a small car park at the entrance to the Observatory, which includes two accessible parking spaces.
Shop @ Mills Observatory
The Observatory’s Shop offers unique gifts for space and astronomy fans, including NASA branded goods, stargazing guides, space themed books and toys for little astronauts.
Telescopes for sale at Mills Observatory
We have a fantastic range of telescopes for all ages at amazing prices. So if you're interested in stargazing yourself or looking for a gift for a budding astronomer, come in and take a look. Our staff are on-hand to offer advice and help you find the right model for you.
Location
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