The new Astronomy Facility is set to open later this year after the plans were approved.
Cruickshank Botanic Garden(Image: University of Aberdeen)
Plans to build a new Aberdeen University facility within the grounds of Cruickshank Botanic Garden have been given the green light.
The new Astronomy Facility is set to open in 2026, with the project coinciding with the 200th anniversary of the creation of the Cromwell Tower Observatory (CTO), in the King’s College quadrangle – the University’s existing Observatory which was established in 1826.
The new facility, which will be home to a powerful telescope with advanced imaging equipment, will build on this heritage. It also inherits the legacy of John Cruickshank (1787–1875) – a Professor of Mathematics at Marischal College who was responsible for maintaining the scientific apparatus that are now in the University of Aberdeen’s special collections.
He had a lifelong interest in Astronomy and was an active Astronomer in his day, publicising a number of planetary observations. His daughter, Anne Cruickshank (1820–1911), donated land, buildings and funds for the establishment of the Cruickshank Botanic Garden in 1898.
On her death, she bequeathed her whole estate to the University of Aberdeen – with the provision that part of it be used to found a Lectureship in Astronomy, including Meteorology and Navigation, in honour of her father.
The John Cruickshank Telescope(Image: University of Aberdeen)
The new facility with modern on-site and remote-control systems will support the university’s astrophysics degree programme while also enabling more outreach opportunities through local schools and community groups.
Dr Charles Wang, the Cruickshank lecturer in Astronomy, said: “We are delighted that Aberdeen City Council has approved plans for a new Astronomy Facility at Cruickshank Botanic Garden. This accessible facility will transform the experience of astronomy students at the University providing hands-on access to modern observational tools and creating exciting opportunities to inspire the next generation of scientists.”
Professor Nicholas Forsyth, Acting Senior Vice-Principal and Vice-Principal Research said: “The approval of planning permission is a major milestone for this project and for the University. This new facility allows us to honour our remarkable astronomical heritage while investing in the future of teaching, research and public engagement in science.”
Morag Beers, Director of Estates and Facilities, added: “Cruickshank Botanic Garden provides a unique and fitting setting for the new observatory. The design has been carefully considered to respect both the natural environment and the historic character of Old Aberdeen.”
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