In March 2015, Sydney Observatory unveiled its new East Dome (pictured) – a purpose-built telescope housing that has been specifically designed to be accessible for people with limited mobility. This new dome incorporates the original metal structure (removed from the site in 1986 and now fully restored) and an astrographic telescope (star camera) used to map the Southern sky.
Most importantly, the East Dome houses a new state-of-the-art telescope with an "articulated relay eyepiece" – basically a piece of tech that allows people in wheelchairs easy viewing through the telescope.
The East Dome is one of three housed within the Sydney Observatory. Built in 1858, the Observatory gained international recognition under Henry Chamberlain Russell, government astronomer from 1870 to 1905, who involved Sydney in the International Astrographic Catalogue, the first complete atlas of the sky. The Sydney section alone took 80 years to complete and filled 53 volumes. Sydney Observatory opened to the public in 1982.
Night tours (booking essential) include a talk and tour, 3D Space Theatre session and viewing through a 40cm (16in) reflecting telescope. You can also explore Sydney Observatory on a self-guided day visit or daytime staff-guided telescope and 3D Space Theatre session. Admission to the museum and gardens is free.