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There are many museums and exhibition displays in the whole of Wellington that specialize on the art and cultural heritage of the nation, talk about its history; its people etc. One place however is quite different from these regular museums, though it does work similar to a museum, such as research, preservation of heritage, and education of the public. What is different about it is that it is an observatory that is concerned about the promotion of astronomy among the public. It is the Carter Observatory, Wellington. The Carter Observatory, Wellington is located at the top of the Botanic Garden in Wellington, and has a very wide vision. It is proclaimed by the authorities that the – “Carter Observatory provides education and learning experiences in astronomy for the public, students and for amateur astronomers that are both authoritative and stimulating; and which excite the young to seek further involvement with science and technology.” The Carter Observatory, Wellington operates two main telescopes within its main building, and a third telescope at a nearby location. There is the Thomas Cooke telescope, which is used basically for public observing sessions, and the Ruth Crisp telescope which it received as a donation. The third telescope is at the Thomas King Observatory, which was used until recently for the public, allowing them to view the sun during the day. The Carter Observatory, Wellington also operates a planetarium with a ZKP1 Zeiss projector, a small lecture-theatre, a shop, and several offices. The Observatory also used to maintain a library of astronomical journals and literature, which was shut down in 2005 owing to inadequate funding. The Carter Observatory, Wellington is open on all days except Christmas day, and the programs conducted are Daily Solar Viewing and the Southern Night Sky telescope viewing, depending on the weather conditions. So, if you want to see that stars, make sure that you head for this amazing place called the Carter Observatory, Wellington.
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