Dark Sky Project Crater Experience - 75 Minutes
Highlights & inclusions
1. Select date
September 2026
2. Select participants
What you can expect
At Dark Sky Project, formerly Earth & Sky, they aim to connect their visitors to the night skies, sparking a lifelong passion for dark sky preservation and what exists above. Dark Sky Project are proudly regarded as a leaders in Astro tourism experiences. Taking place at the Cowan's Observatory you will improve your knowledge of the Southern Skies in the purpose-built observatory. This is a great introduction to stargazing and is suitable for children seven years and over. The observatory is built inside a crater which offers you maximum wind protection and minimum light pollution. The astronomy guides will discuss the Southern Skies with you as you take it all in through the powerful optical telescopes. If the weather is not suitable for this outdoor experience you will be able to enjoy the Dark Sky Indoor experience instead.
Location
What you need to know
- Transfers from Tekapo township
- 75-minute guided tour at Cowan’s Observatory
- Stargazing with optical telescopes up to 14"
- The Astro Café is open from 10 am to 5 pm from Friday to Sunday and 10 am to 2 pm on Monday
- The Dark Sky Diner (located in the main Dark Sky Project office in Tekapo) operates Thursday (4 pm - late) and Friday to Sunday (noon- late)
- This experience has a duration of 75 minutes
- Departs from the Dark Sky Base Building located at 1 Motuariki Lane, Tekapo Lakefront
- Wear warm clothes regardless of the season as temperatures can get low
- Please note that if the weather is not suitable for the outdoor Summit Experience and Crater Experience the tour will be moved indoors. You will be able to receive a partial refund
- Once this experience has been confirmed, changes are at the discretion of the experience provider and arranged directly with them according to this policy
- A minimum of 24 hours' notice is required for cancellations
- Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of purchase
- Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
- Mobile Vouchers are accepted! - Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
- For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
