AO Edited
'The Astronomer'
A stargazing sculpture made from the ruins of an iconic telescope.
'The Astronomer' Louise Docker from sydney, Australia
In 2003, Canberra was hit by a horrific firestorm. The fire destroyed the Mount Stromlo Observatory, as well as its historic Yale-Columbia Refractor telescope. The telescope had been observing the stars since the 1920s and even helped with a few NASA missions.
But from this tragedy came beauty. Parts of the telescope that were damaged were used to construct this magnificent sculpture known as “The Astronomer.” Constructed by scientist/artist Tim Wetherell, the sculpture is a visual nod to the telescope and functions as both a historical monument and a unique piece of art.
The sculpture currently stands tall outside Questacon, a popular science and technology center in Canberra. Be sure to visit and maybe stargaze alongside him.
In partnership with KAYAK
Plan Your Trip
Stay in Touch!
Follow us on social media to add even more wonder to your day.
Follow us on Twitter
Like us on Facebook
Follow Us on Instagram
No Thanks
Visit AtlasObscura.com
No purchase necessary. Winner will be selected at random on 10/01/2023. Offer available only in the U.S. (including Puerto Rico). Offer subject to change without notice. See contest rules for full details.
Follow us on Twitter to get the latest on the world's hidden wonders.
Like us on Facebook to get the latest on the world's hidden wonders.
Follow us on Twitter Like us on Facebook