Mapo 365 Observatory Announces Special Autumn Stargazing Program

Mapo-gu has organized a special series of events to help families and students explore the stars and the universe during the cool autumn evenings. Throughout October, the Mapo 365 Observatory at the Mapo 365 Community Center will host a program titled 'Autumn Constellations and the Stories of the Stars.'

Mapo 365 Observatory Announces Special Autumn Stargazing Program

Mapo-gu is hosting a special autumn program in October, featuring a series of educational sessions titled ‘Autumn Constellations and the Stories of the Stars.’ The program begins with theoretical training on major autumn constellations and stellar characteristics, followed by hands-on activities, including creating star charts, operating telescopes, and guided celestial observation.

Specifically, the program offers tailored sessions for middle school astronomy and science clubs, as well as families residing in Mapo-gu, providing participants with a more approachable way to engage with astronomy based on their individual levels.

First-Come, First-Served Registration for Student Clubs and Local Families

Registration for middle school science clubs is open for sessions on October 15 and 22. Applications are limited to local middle school clubs with 5 to 25 members, including an accompanying teacher, with a maximum of 25 participants per session, filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

The family program is scheduled for October 23, exclusively for Mapo-gu residents. A total of 10 families (based on 4-person households) will be selected, with family groups allowed to range from 2 to 7 members. Proof of residency must be submitted upon application, and only family members listed on the document may participate.

Applications for all programs must be submitted through the Seoul Public Service Reservation website on a first-come, first-served basis. Participation fees range from 2,250 to 4,500 won per person, depending on the applicant category and residency. Detailed pricing and application procedures can be found on the reservation page.

An Urban Hub for Science and Culture: Mapo 365 Observatory

Mapo 365 Observatory (Tojeong-ro 98) is a science and culture space that offers close encounters with the stars and the universe, serving as a facility within the Mapo 365 Community Center that officially opened on November 1, 2025. The observatory was constructed on the former site of the Seoul Thermal Power Plant (Dangin-ri Power Plant), the country’s first coal-fired power station, and has been well-received by residents since its opening.

Located on the 5th-floor rooftop observation deck of the community center, the observatory features a 5-meter diameter dome housing a 200mm refracting telescope and a 100mm solar telescope. Additionally, it is equipped with two auxiliary telescopes, five practice telescopes, and three observation binoculars to facilitate diverse celestial viewing. Its open location, adjacent to the south of the Hangang River, allows for clear observation of stars and planets from the heart of Seoul, as well as panoramic views of the Hangang River and Bamseom Island.

The observatory currently operates regular day and night programs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, led by professional astronomy instructors, providing celestial observations, lectures, and experiential educational activities.

Continuing Scientific Experiences to Nurture Future Dreams

Beyond these special programs, Mapo 365 Observatory consistently operates the ‘Starlight Astronomy Class,’ which is linked to the school curriculum. This program targets local elementary school students and middle school science and astronomy clubs, covering theoretical training on the sun’s characteristics and activities, celestial observation, and the creation of educational tools. The classes are held every Wednesday for 90 minutes until November 25, with registration available on the Seoul Public Service Reservation website on a first-come, first-served basis.

Yoo Dong-gyun, Mayor of Mapo-gu, stated, “I hope that even in the city, families can make special memories by gazing at the night sky and discovering stars and the universe together during these cool autumn nights. We will continue to prepare diverse scientific experiences to ensure children’s curiosity can grow into dreams for the future.”