Welcome to Sydney City Skywatchers
Based at Sydney Observatory and established in 1895, Sydney City Skywatchers carries forward a proud tradition of providing a forum dedicated to amateur astronomers and astronomy enthusiasts in the city. Since our beginnings our aims to service the amateurs in astronomy have not changed. We are inclusive and welcome new members from Sydney and beyond. To see what we have been up to have a look at our facebook page.
We acknowledge and pay respect to the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. It is upon their ancestral lands that Sydney Observatory, the home of Sydney City Skywatchers, is built. As we share our own knowledge and learn about astronomy and its heritage, may we also pay respect to the knowledge embedded forever within the Aboriginal Custodianship of Country.
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2026 Speaker and viewing program
Our monthly program is designed to enhance amateur astronomy and telescope skills and to stimulate cosmic curiousity. The evening usually begins with short members reports prior to the keynote speaker.
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Monday 2 February, 6:30pm, at Sydney Observatory
Keynote: 'How to observe and photograph the Moon' by Dr. Andrew Wood. Short talk: Astronomical highlights in 2026, Dr. Andrew Jacob.
Monday 2 March, 6:30pm, on-line
Keynote: 'Observing Occultations' by Dave Gault. Short talk: TBC
Tuesday 3 March - Total Lunar Eclipse viewing night
Wednesday 8 April, 6:30pm, on-line
Keynote and short talk TBC
Monday 4 May, 6:30pm, at Sydney Observatory
Keynote: 'GALAH on AAT- Galactic archaeology of the Milky Way' by Dr Sven Buder from the ANU. Short talk: TBC
Monday 1 June, 6:30pm, on-line
'Keynote and short talk TBC
Monday 6 July, 6:30pm, at Sydney Observatory
Telescope observing night and Observatory tour.
Monday 4 August, 6:30pm, on-line
Keynote: ‘Some reflections on astronomy in Sydney during the 1960s’ by Prof. Wayne Orchiston. Short talk: TBC
Monday 1 September, 6:30pm, at Sydney Observatory
'Variable star observations' by Peter Williams. Short talk: TBC.
Wednesday 1 October, 6:30pm on-line
Members presentation night and AGM
Monday 2nd November, 6:30pm, at Sydney Observatory
TBC
Monday 7th December, 6:30pm
End of year celebration (in person)