Bedford School has the largest school observatory in the South East region and is currently the only school in the UK to have its own observatory and planetarium. Sited on the Bedford School estate, the observatory and planetarium are operated by the school’s Astronomer in conjunction with members of the Bedford Astronomical Society.

The facilities are available for use by schools and interested groups. The planetarium acts as a valuable resource room and is available for use by schools and community groups for meetings, slide shows and projected views of the night sky.

The astronomy facilities are well used by the local Bedford Astronomical Society and other groups such as the Girl Guides and Scouts wanting to know more about astronomy. Being the only school in the area to have access to such an impressive resource, Bedford School is proud and pleased to be able to share its facilities with other groups.

Guide to Observatory Visits

Astronomy Courses

The school also runs a series of short courses in astronomy at the observatory and planetarium.

Useful Links

Bedford Astronomical Society (serving Bedfordshire since 1987)
Describes the organisation, forthcoming events and its history. Includes photo gallery, sky diary and links to other astronomical organisations.
 
Stellarium
Stellarium is a planetarium software that shows exactly what you see when you look up at the stars. It’s easy to use, and free.
 
BBC Weather Forecast for Bedford