Planning permission has been approved for a new Astronomy Facility at the University of Aberdeen, to be built within the grounds of Cruickshank Botanic Garden.
With a planned opening in 2026, the project will coincide with the bicentenary of the foundation of the Cromwell Tower Observatory (CTO), located in the King’s College quadrangle, the University’s existing Observatory which was established in 1826.
Although the CTO has not been operational for more than two decades, due to limitations in accessibility and a lack of space required to accommodate a larger modern telescope, it served as a distinguished centre for teaching, research and public engagement in both Astronomy and Meteorology throughout its history.
Among its notable contributions, Sir David Gill (1843–1914) – renowned for his pioneering high-quality photographs of the moon, taken in Aberdeen - used the CTO to synchronise his clock, which he had built himself, with accurate celestial time. Eventually, this system was expanded to provide precision timekeeping to Aberdeen City Centre, direct from the CTO to the Town House Clock - a service that was highly valued locally and played an important role in the city’s scientific and civic life in the late 19th Century.
The new facility, which will be home to a powerful telescope with advanced imaging equipment, will build on this heritage. It also inherits the legacy of John Cruickshank (1787–1875) who was not only Professor of Mathematics at Marischal College, but also responsible for maintaining the scientific apparatus which included telescopes that are now in the University of Aberdeen’s special collections. He had a lifelong interest in Astronomy and was an active Astronomer in his day, publicising a number of planetary observations. His daughter, Anne Cruickshank (1820–1911), generously donated land, buildings and funds for the establishment of the Cruickshank Botanic Garden in 1898.
On her death, she bequeathed her whole estate (via a special trust) to the University of Aberdeen – with the provision that part of it be used to found a Lectureship in Astronomy, including Meteorology and Navigation, in honour of her father. For over a century, the holders of this title have been responsible for maintaining the University's Observatory along with active teaching, research and public engagement in astronomy.
The new facility with modern on-site and remote-control systems will support the University’s astrophysics degree programme, delivered by the Department of Physics, while providing an inclusive space for a wide range of users with its practical accessibility. It will support the University’s teaching and research in astrophysics while creating new opportunities for interdisciplinary work in areas such as data science and artificial intelligence. It will further enhance public engagement by enabling more outreach opportunities through local schools and community groups, strengthening connections between the University and the wider community.
The project is being funded primarily through the generosity of 'Miss Anne H Cruickshank’s Special Trust' and the 'Dr C Allan Young and Mrs Norma Young Fund'.
Dr Charles Wang, the 6th and current 'Cruickshank Lecturer in Astronomy', who championed the project and will lead it with strong support from University colleagues and local astronomical communities, said: “We are delighted that Aberdeen City Council has approved plans for a new Astronomy Facility at Cruickshank Botanic Garden. This accessible facility will transform the experience of astronomy students at the University providing hands-on access to modern observational tools and creating exciting opportunities to inspire the next generation of scientists.”
Professor Nicholas Forsyth, Acting Senior Vice-Principal and Vice-Principal Research said: “The approval of planning permission is a major milestone for this project and for the University. This new facility allows us to honour our remarkable astronomical heritage while investing in the future of teaching, research and public engagement in science.”
Morag Beers, Director of Estates and Facilities, added: “Cruickshank Botanic Garden provides a unique and fitting setting for the new observatory. The design has been carefully considered to respect both the natural environment and the historic character of Old Aberdeen.”