Centre of the Universe

Centre of the Universe

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We are the Centre of the Universe, the visitors' centre at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory in Victoria, BC, Canada.

We're dedicated to public science outreach and welcoming visitors from everywhere! We are a non-profit BC-registered Society based in Victoria, B.C. dedicated to promoting public science outreach at the DAO. We aim to revitalize its public programming and visitors centre, the Centre of the Universe.

08/21/2026

Mark your calendar for August 27! 🌖 Experience the partial lunar eclipse from one of Victoria’s most memorable viewpoints.

See the eclipse outside with a view of the city or come inside Centre of the Universe to watch with guides and astronomers who help make space feel a little closer. ⭐️

The total eclipse experience — Centre of the Universe 08/18/2026

Check out our new blog about last week's spectacular total solar eclipse!

The total eclipse experience — Centre of the Universe Total solar eclipses are  magical events not only because of the spectacle in the sky but also because of the effect on the surroundings here on earth – the way the air moves, the quality of the  dimming light, and the reaction of the  people observing with you. Read an

Photos from Centre of the Universe's post 08/14/2026

Eclipse 2026 from Playa Riumar, Delte d'Ebre, Spain. Down on the beach it looked like no one was all that interested at first - beach volleyball, splashing in the ocean. But the cameras (like mine) came out, and everyone looked west. As the eclipse wind started to blow and twilight came on, there was a surge of emotion. Totality brought applause and audible wows.

It lasted less than 90 seconds before the closing Diamond Ring, but the memories will last.

Added: a picture during totality with the solar corona turned down showing prominences (long lasting arches of luminous gas) all over the sun's limb.

Photo note: Canon EOS R10 400mm. Pre-eclipse pictures taken with a 32-Stop ND filter. The flare closeup shows we weren't completely in focus, but neither did I want to fiddle with the camera at that crucial moment!

Photos from Centre of the Universe's post 08/06/2026

Think you know space? 🪐

From black holes to shooting stars, the universe is full of surprises. Swipe through to test what you know and maybe learn something new. 🤩

Photos from Centre of the Universe's post 07/29/2026

The sky's the limit when you visit Centre of the Universe. Just 30 minutes from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, discover a National Historic Site with panoramic views, rich local history and a one-of-a-kind adventure - to space 🚀💫

Head to our link in bio to book your observatory tour!

Photos from Centre of the Universe's post 07/17/2026

Your Saturday night plans just found an upgrade worthy of the cosmos 🌟

Join us for Star Parties at Centre of the Universe! Since 1918, we've hosted presentations, planetarium shows, observatory tours, chats with astronomers, and telescope viewings, on select nights.

⭐️ There's plenty to discover all evening long, but spots are limited, so be sure to get your tickets early through our link in bio!

07/17/2026

Join us this Friday, July 17th for an evening exploring the fascinating history of our site, from its origins to the role it plays in astronomy and science outreach today. Enjoy an engaging presentation, twilight views, and an opportunity to observe the night sky through our telescopes.

https://www.centreoftheuniverse.org/twilight-talks-telescopes

Photos from Centre of the Universe's post 07/08/2026

Let your kids reach for the stars. ✨

Swipe through for 5 reasons Centre of the Universe is a family-favourite stop, from hands-on exhibits to space-filled experiences that make learning feel like an adventure for everyone! 🌎

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Location

Category

Telephone

Address


5071 West Saanich Road
Victoria, BC
V9E2E7

Opening Hours

Tuesday 11am - 6pm
Wednesday 11am - 6pm
Thursday 11am - 6pm
Friday 11am - 6pm
Saturday 11am - 6pm