Dordrecht observatory

Dordrecht Observatory, known locally as Sterrenwacht Mercurius, is a public observatory and planetarium on the edge of Biesbosch National Park in the Netherlands.

About Dordrecht Observatory

Sterrenwacht Mercurius sits at the edge of De Dordtse Biesbosch, part of De Biesbosch National Park near Dordrecht, South Holland. The observatory combines a working telescope dome with exhibits on astronomy, meteorology, and space travel, making it as much a small science centre as a stargazing venue.

Telescopes & research

The observatory's dome houses a Carl Zeiss telescope dating back to 1923, used for both solar observation during the day and views of planets and other objects after dark. Alongside the telescope, the site runs a film area with space-travel shows and offers group presentations, giving visitors several ways to engage with astronomy beyond looking through the eyepiece.

Location & getting there

Dordrecht Observatory is located in South Holland, Netherlands, on the edge of Biesbosch National Park — a wetland nature reserve just outside Dordrecht, easily reached from the city.

Visiting Dordrecht Observatory

The observatory is open to the public, with exhibits, a planetarium-style programme, and English-language tours available; group presentations can also be arranged. Check current opening hours before visiting, as these can vary by season.

See your named star from here

With a century-old Zeiss telescope on hand, Sterrenwacht Mercurius is a fitting place to look for a star named through Star Register — every named star comes with exact coordinates that staff can be given in advance. Search the star catalogue to find yours before you go.