This article featured in the Evening Telegraph on 17 September 2024.
I was absolutely delighted to hear the recent news that Mills Observatory will be reopening for the winter months at the start of October.
This is a much-needed development, not only for Dundee but for the wider community of people interested in astronomy and science.
Mills Observatory is one of those unique gems in the city, offering something that very few places in the UK can—a public observatory that is accessible to everyone, whether you’re a professional astronomer or simply curious about the stars.
Dundee is blessed with a wealth of attractions, each bringing its own unique charm and appeal. The V&A Dundee, for example, recently celebrated six years since it opened its doors and has become a cultural hub for art and design lovers from all over, and the McManus Galleries, with their stunning collection of fine art and artefacts, continue to educate and inspire both locals and visitors alike.
Yet, despite all these fantastic options, the Mills Observatory often seems to be forgotten, overshadowed by the more high-profile attractions. It's time this changed.
The observatory is more than just a building housing a telescope. It has been a vital part of Dundee’s cultural and educational landscape for decades, offering residents and visitors a chance to explore the night sky. It's the only full-time public observatory in the UK, and that in itself should make it a priority for preservation and promotion.
The facility provides a unique experience for anyone wishing to engage with astronomy, offering not only viewings through its telescope but also exhibitions, educational workshops, and expert talks that ignite curiosity about the universe.
Unfortunately, despite its importance, the future of the Mills Observatory remains unclear. Discussions are still ongoing following a consultation process launched by Dundee City Council about the possibility of closing the observatory as part of cost-saving measures. It’s a worrying prospect that such an important and unique facility could be lost to budget cuts.
While financial considerations are important, closing the observatory would be a short-sighted decision that overlooks the long-term value it brings to the community, particularly in inspiring future generations of scientists, astronomers, and educators.
I hope the council can reconsider any plans to close this invaluable institution. Whether it’s through additional funding or by exploring other options such as partnering with organisations like Historic Scotland, it’s essential that a solution is found to secure the observatory’s future. There is so much potential to enhance what the Mills Observatory offers, and with the right backing, it could become an even greater asset to Dundee.
The same concerns apply to Broughty Castle, which has also been mentioned as a site that could face closure. Like the observatory, Broughty Castle is a key part of Dundee’s heritage, offering a window into the city’s history and providing an educational resource for the local community and tourists alike.
Facilities like Mills Observatory and Broughty Castle play a vital role in preserving Dundee’s cultural and educational fabric. They offer unique experiences that enrich the lives of both residents and visitors. It’s essential that we use these incredible resources, support them, and ensure they remain open for future generations to enjoy.
As the saying goes, if we don’t use it, we’ll lose it - forever. Let’s not allow that to happen.
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