UCL OBSERVATORY - UCLO

Initially an institution of the University of London, located northwest of the city, this observatory has been managed exclusively by University College London since 1951. It is a practical teaching observatory equipped with five permanently mounted telescopes, two classrooms and a specialized astronomy library. As is often the case with this type of establishment, its history is rich and exciting to discover... In 1925, M.J.G. Wilson offered the University of London a 61 cm diameter telescope, initially located in Daramona, County Westmeath, Ireland. After research and negotiations to find its future location, Mill Hill Park was selected. Its construction began in July 1928 and was completed in 1929. It was inaugurated by the royal astronomer Sir Frank Dyson on October 8, 1929. The University of London took over the management of the observatory in 1933. The following years saw the arrival of new instruments, including the impressive Radcliffe bezel. The site is expanding and new buildings are being built. The outbreak of the Second World War in 1939 forced the closure of the observatory, which reopened in 1945. Some instruments are destroyed and/or moved during this period. In 1951, the administration of the observatory was transferred to a new astronomy department at the college. Following an important legacy, an astronomy chair was created at that time, and the observatory had the financial resources to operate properly. This rather atypical place is very appreciated by the English who do not hesitate to book well in advance and come with their families, especially for public evenings.