Bedford School Observatory Visit

Course Code: TBS1603

Start Date: 16/03/2026

Day of the Week:

Monday

Session: Evening

Delivery method: Off Site (see description for further details)

Length in weeks: 1

Time: 7pm to 8:30pm

Price: £

You are warmly invited to a special astronomy session at the Bedford School Observatory on Monday 16th March, led by Mr Linton Guise, Head of Astronomy.

The weather on the day of our visit will determine how the session is structured.  If the sky is clear, two or three demonstrators from the local Astronomical Society will be present. The group will be divided into smaller teams so that everyone can use each instrument in turn. After the observing session, there will be a short Planetarium show to consolidate what has been seen.   If the sky is cloudy, the visit will begin with the Planetarium show, followed by demonstrations of the telescopes and equipment. Even without clear skies, the 1 hour 15 minutes passes very quickly and remains a fascinating experience.

Observatories are kept very cold during winter, as heating creates thermal currents that reduce visibility. Part of the session will also take place outdoors using portable telescopes. For this reason, warm clothing is essential — please ensure you come with multiple layers, hats, and gloves!

Meeting point:
Please arrive at 6:55pm at the Observatory Gate on Pemberley Avenue, MK40 2LD
(Please note: this is not the gate by the Chapel.) Parking is available on Pemberley Avenue.

Please advise the office if you have any mobility issues – there are steps and standing is required for use of the telescopes.