ASTRONOMY
IS AN ADVENTURE
Visit the centre of the universe in Victoria, BC
LOCATION
Centre of the Universe
5071 West Saanich Road, Victoria, BC
HOURS
OCTOBER TO JUNE 12th
Fridays and Saturdays
12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
JUNE 16th TO SEPTEMBER 19th
Tuesdays to Saturdays
11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
YOU’RE INVITED
The Planets by Gustav Holst
Performed by The Celestial Saxophone Orchestra
Join us on Friday, May 22 for an intimate evening of music and good food among the stars at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory.
The Dominion Astrophysical Observatory is a designated National Historic Site. When it opened in 1918, its telescope was the largest operational instrument in the world.
The Centre of the Universe is a leading astronomy attraction in Greater Victoria, located at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in space, stargazing, and Canadian astronomy history.
As the visitor centre of the Observatory, the Centre of the Universe offers guided access to the historic Plaskett Telescope, one of Canada’s most important scientific instruments. Visitors can explore the 1.8-metre telescope that has been in use since June 1918 and continues to support astronomical research on clear nights.
Inside, guests can experience an interactive exhibit gallery and planetarium featuring immersive astronomy programs, full-dome films, and presentations about the night sky. The Centre also offers stargazing experiences and virtual reality astronomy activities designed for all ages.
Learn about the history of the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory and discover how the Plaskett Telescope helped map the Milky Way Galaxy from Victoria, British Columbia.
COME VISIT US
JOIN US THIS SUMMER FOR
STAR PARTY
SATURDAYS
support our work
Your support brings astronomy education, public programs, and unforgettable night-sky experiences to our community.
As a non-profit, we rely on donations to deliver school programs, host public star parties, and keep the night sky accessible to everyone. For over a century, our star parties have welcomed generations to experience the universe together under the stars.
Make a donation today and be part of the story.
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WORK WITH US
Explore meaningful opportunities to work or volunteer with us and help bring astronomy education and public programs to our community.