Hundreds have packed out Mills Observatory on the final day of the season as a solar eclipse takes place

The partial eclipse over Mills Observatory’s dome.

Mills Observatory has closed out its best season ever, with hundreds of visitors packing the historic venue on its final day of operation for 2024/25.

Over the past five months, more than 14,000 people have passed through its doors—marking an unprecedented resurgence for Scotland’s only full-time public observatory.

Once under threat of closure, Mills Observatory was saved in November, securing its future and allowing this record-breaking season to unfold.

Crowds flocked to the site in numbers never seen before, with queues stretching outside as stargazers, space enthusiasts, and families embraced its unique offering.

Today saw a solar eclipse visible over Dundee, although cloud cover unfortunately obscured the spectacle.

Despite this, visitors still gathered at the observatory to share in the experience and learn more about the celestial event and celebrate the successful season.

Adding to the atmosphere, Eastfield Café was on hand to provide bacon rolls, coffee, and hot chocolate, keeping guests warm as they explored the observatory’s exhibits and telescopes one last time before the seasonal closure.

What is next for the observatory?

While Mills Observatory has now closed for its regular schedule, it will reopen in June as part of the Dundee Book Festival, offering a special programme of events.

The venue’s milestone 90th anniversary season will then officially begin on 1 October, promising another exciting year of astronomy, history, and community engagement.

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After a season defined by record numbers and renewed public interest, Mills Observatory has proven that its place in Dundee’s cultural landscape is more important than ever.