Scottish Dark Sky Observatory

The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory (SDSO) was an astronomical observatory designed by Glasgow Architects G.D. Lodge located near Loch Doon, East Ayrshire, Scotland. It was situated on a hilltop site near the village of Dalmellington. The site is located in the northern edge of the Galloway Forest's Dark Sky Park, and within the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, enjoying relatively low levels of light pollution. The observatory was constructed during 2012 and was officially opened by the then First Minister of Scotland, Alex Salmond. The building and facilities were extended in 2017 by a design team led by Beecher Architect with the addition of a planetarium, officially opened by the Lord Lieutenant of Ayrshire and Arran John Duncan. The SDSO was open year round with its principal aim being to encourage people of all ages and abilities to learn about and experience the wonders of astronomy and space. It was a valuable and unique educational asset for the region. The SDSO suffered a devastating fire during the early hours of 23 June 2021. The fire is currently being treated as suspicious. In late 2023, following the results of an independent feasibility study, the Board of Trustees of the SDSO confirmed that, for a number of reasons, the observatory will not be rebuilt on its former site. The SDSO have successfully completed the purchase of an old visitor centre at Clatteringshaws Loch. When built, the new £1.5m observatory will include two observing domes, a planetarium, a gift shop and a small cafe. The Astronomer Royal for Scotland, Prof Catherine Heymans, will be the observatory's patron.