Explore the night sky and universe in a comfortable planetarium with full-dome projections, plus observe celestial objects through a computer-controlled telescope at the on-site observatory.

Wynyard Planetarium and Observatory is an educational and entertainment facility operated by the Teesside Astronomical Science Centre, a charitable organisation dedicated to promoting astronomical and space education. The venue features a planetarium that seats up to 36 people, offering immersive full-dome 360-degree projections of the night sky, space, and our solar system. Visitors can experience comfortable, guided explorations of the cosmos through both traditional night sky shows and engaging full-dome video presentations. The facility also includes an observatory housing a computer-controlled 14-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, originally opened in 1994. The observatory is open to the public during and after planetarium shows, as well as every Tuesday evening from 7:30pm to 9pm as a drop-in event where visitors can observe through the telescope (weather permitting) or bring their own equipment for advice and guidance. The venue runs a full programme of events on alternate Friday evenings, all requiring pre-booking. Wynyard Planetarium is suitable for families, schools, and astronomy enthusiasts of all ages. The facility provides a unique educational resource for those interested in astronomy, physics, and STEM subjects. Recent upgrades include new plush seating and improved facilities to enhance the visitor experience. The venue also offers school programmes and is developing remote observation capabilities through an automated camera system.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

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Cyndi Sabo-Cook

3 months ago

The planetarium is only open certain days a month.

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Kirsty Smith

a year ago

First trip to Wynyard observatory on Tuesday 25/02. I came across this venue via Google as my ‘space mad’ 10 year old wanted to visit one. There are others locally but all are costly. This is totally free! There are sessions every Tuesday eve & we went along during school half term. We all had a great time. The volunteers were all super friendly & extremely knowledgeable. We saw Mars & Jupiter from the huge telescopes & star constellations were pointed out by volunteers. There were some interesting items & talks in the planetarium itself and we will definitely return to see a show. Would definitely recommend for any adult or child interested in planets & star gazing! Thank you so much guys!

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Ethan Cummings

2 years ago

Been visiting for just over a year now, to the free Tuesday sessions (7:30pm-9:00pm). And I’ve just became a volunteer! The other volunteers there are lovely and are my source of Astronomy information. Plus, despite being close to Stockton and Middlesbrough, you can see quite a few stars on a good clear night (weather dependant) but if it’s not clear, don’t worry as nothing will be cancelled. Have a chat to the guys in the planetarium and you won’t regret it. This place has helped me so much with my Astronomy hobby.

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Edwina Grant-Nichols

4 years ago

Just found this place for walking n running is beautiful.

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Debbie Isgate

4 years ago

We went to watch the meteor shower up at wynyard planetarium... it was a really good night seen about 4 or 5 meteors... the guys who volunteer up there are really informative and were pointing out which stars and plants we were looking at would fully reccomend.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026