| Atkinson Observatory | |
| Organization: | Nelson Science Society |
| Location: | Clifton Terrace School, Nelson, New Zealand |
| Coords: | -41.2253°N 173.3216°W |
| Established: | 2008 (1883) |
Cawthron Atkinson Observatory (formerly Atkinson Observatory) is sited in the grounds of Clifton Terrace School, Nelson, New Zealand, after previously being situated at Pipers Park for many years.[1]
First operated in 1883, the observatory was founded by Arthur Atkinson, a keen amateur astronomer and Member of Parliament for Nelson. A newer observatory building opened in 1982.
The now relocated and renamed observatory formally opened on 12 April 2008, after completing a major refurbishment of the structure and 129-year-old telescope.[1] This work was funded by contributions from various individuals and groups, such as a NZ$50,000 donation by the Cawthron Trust.
The observatory is administered by the Astronomy Section of the Nelson Science Society, Royal Society of New Zealand. Star Parties are held once a month at the observatory, and society meetings are held the first Thursday of the month at Cawthron Institute, 98 Halifax Street East, Nelson.[2]