Radcliffe Observatory

Radcliffe Observatory is a Grade I listed building in Oxford, United Kingdom, that served as the astronomical observatory of the University of Oxford for over 160 years.

About Radcliffe Observatory

The observatory operated as Oxford University's astronomical observatory from 1773 until 1934. Today, the historic building forms part of Green Templeton College, one of the University of Oxford's constituent colleges, and its architectural and scientific heritage earns it Grade I listed status.

History

Radcliffe Observatory became active in 1794 and continued its astronomical work for the university until 1934, when the Radcliffe Trustees sold the site. Rather than closing the institution entirely, the Trustees relocated its work by building a new observatory in Pretoria, South Africa, which continued the Radcliffe name.

Location & getting there

The observatory stands in Oxford, United Kingdom, within the Europe region, now surrounded by the buildings of Green Templeton College. Use the map and directions on this page to find it.

Visiting Radcliffe Observatory

As part of Green Templeton College, the historic Radcliffe Observatory building is best seen as part of a visit to the college; check the college's website for current access details before planning a trip.

See your named star from here

Oxford has a centuries-deep connection to astronomical observation, and a named star's precise right ascension and declination coordinates continue that tradition of pinpointing exact positions in the sky. Name a star, or browse the star catalogue to see stars already named by others.