Last month, the Observatory got some really good news:
It has got even better today – on the day the South West Astronomy Fair comes to town:
Sidmouth astroscouts are over the moon that works can start on observatory extension
10 August 2018
Five young NLO members Benjamin Grey, Rebecca Naylor, Lucia Goulev, Victoria Briges-Galvez and Amy Scarr (pictured) have created a large ceramic moon which is a fully interactive model that uses LED lights to identify craters and lunar landing sites at the touch of a button. It will be on display at the South West Astronomy Fair at NLO tomorrow (Saturday) between 9.30am and 5pm. All are welcome.
Works can now begin on a £70,000 extension to help Sidmouth’s budding astronomers, thanks to a large charitable donation.
Earlier this year, the Herald reported on the Norman Lockyer Observatory’s (NLO) plans to build a new classroom and an extension to the Lockyer Technology Centre, as well as a new disabled access ramp.
East Devon District Council approved an application for the development in January. Shortly after, the observatory’s bosses had a meeting to discuss fundraising the money.
It has now been revealed that the Sid Vale Association’s Keith Owen Fund has generously granted aid of £20,000 towards the cost of a new classroom extension at the site on Salcombe Hill.
This will be added to the £50,000 loan which was granted by EDDC towards the project, in July.
Sidmouth astroscouts are over the moon works can start on observatory extension