Hang out in Broken Hill this summer for a dark sky event

This summer, Outback Astronomy is thrilled there will be a dark starry sky, that is, Moon-free, to welcome in the festive season and the New Year – 2025 – at our signature Hang out with the Stars® dark sky event.

In addition, we’ve got your moonlit summer nights sorted with planet and Moon views, the fabulous sausage sizzle return and the wonderfully instructive sky show event that helps you to learn about the changing night sky, The Sky Tonight.

On moonlit nights, we’ve got observing organised for you.

Planet events scheduled with lower pricing for families

Embark on a celestial journey through our Solar System as we guide your viewing of the planets visible in the night sky. We’ll also marvel at the Moon should it grace us with its presence.

Whether you’re new to astronomy or a stargazing enthusiast, our Planet Viewing event promises to ignite your curiosity and deepen your connection to the night sky and the cosmos. Plus, it’s family friendly, keep reading for the details of free admission for two children.

Planet Viewing Dates

December 2024: 11, 12, 17, 20, 22

January 2025: 13, 14, 15 (Two sessions on 15 Jan: 8:45 PM and 10 PM ACST)

What You’ll Experience

Explore planets and celestial objects through powerful telescopes.

Learn fascinating facts about our Solar System and its visible wonders.

Discover a great legacy of the ancient stargazers – how to identify planets with your naked eye as they float above, amongst the stars.

A fun way to better understand the changing night sky.

Take away magical night sky viewing memories!

Bring your tripod and camera and take some shots.

Family-Friendly Fun

Parents, bring the kids to Planet Viewing events! Your first two children (ages 5–15) attend for FREE. Additional children will require a ticket. Event will not be longer than an hour.

What to Bring

Your own binoculars and fold-up chairs (optional bench seating is otherwise provided).

A sense of wonder!

Reserve your spot today to make this holiday season truly out of this world.

Sausage Sizzle Returns

In January (before the sky shows commencing at 8:45 PM  – “Discover the Moon” and “Planet Viewing” – enjoy a sausage sizzle from 7:45 PM before diving into the wonders of the universe. The sizzle is generously portioned and great value. We can cater for GF and V. It includes:

• Up to two sausages, tomato sauce, in bread slices, with onions caramelised on the BBQ
• A can of lemonade or sparkling mineral water
• Ice cream chaser!

Sizzle guests are expected to attend the sky show event that follows. Visit our website for more details. Go to the Sky Show Calendar and browse through January 2025. The sizzle is hosted before The Sky Tonight, Discover the Moon and Planet Viewing.

Join in a dark sky hangout with Outback Astronomy

If dark sky events this festive season/Christmas and New Year are your desire, then it may well be worth the road trip to Broken Hill!

The Moon is not in the sky at this festive time so, provided the weather is clear and people are booked in, Outback Astronomy will look forward to guiding you through a dark sky starry hangout!

Experience Hang out with the Stars®.

This unforgettable stargazing event immerses you in the wonder of the universe, surrounded by the breathtakingly dark skies of the Australian outback, far from any light pollution.

Two Stellar Ticket Options to Choose From

• Standard Ticket
  Includes bench seating and access to the incredible views, live commentary, and optical equipment. Feeling hungry? You can add food and drinks during the booking process.
• PLUS Ticket
  Enjoy premium comfort with a reclined chair, a side table, food (see details on our website) and one beverage. No need to select these again at checkout unless you want extras!

Discover the Universe Like Never Before

As you gaze at the endless expanse of the unobstructed outback night sky, learn about the stars, galaxies and visible planets. Your sky guide will explain the view in real time commentary.

• See distant galaxies (naked eye visible during summer – hurry to view the smudge of Andromeda Galaxy before mid January)
• Learn about life in the cosmos: Are we alone? Are we special? Ponder these profound questions under a sky teeming with possibilities.

Plan Your Night with the Stars

• Event Dates:
  • December 2024: 21, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 30, 31
  • January 2025: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 19 to 31
• Event Location: Outback Astronomy, on the edge of Broken Hill, free from light pollution (the nearest city is 330 km away).
• Audio Experience: All guests are supplied with an audio unit for the live narration. Bring your own earphones (cabled, round 3.5mm plug – see image) or purchase them when booking, or at the venue.
• Optical Equipment: Access telescopes and binoculars, with the equipment selection tailored to the season, weather, and staff discretion.

Comfort Under the Stars

The outback night sky is mesmerising, but temperatures can vary dramatically. Even in summer, please cover your skin and bring a coat for cooler night breezes or an unexpected cold weather change.

For detailed tips on earphones, what to wear, and other great tips, please visit our FAQs section online.

Booking Made Easy

Booking is simple and ensures you don’t miss out on this popular event:

1. Select your event from our online calendar, click on it.
2. Click BOOK: Select your desired date and ticket type.
3. Personalise Your Experience: Add food, drinks, or upgraded seating as needed.
4. Contact Details: Provide an Australian mobile number for updates and event confirmations.

Why Stargaze at Outback Astronomy?

• Unmatched Views: Located far from city lights, the outback sky provides unparalleled clarity.
• No Experience Necessary: Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a curious first-timer, this event is accessible to everyone.
• Live Commentary: Expert guides deliver fascinating, real-time insights.

As you lay back, ponder the vastness of the universe and its infinite possibilities. Hang out with the Stars® and let the cosmos inspire you.

Reserve your spot today and create memories that are truly out of this world!