Sir Thomas Brisbane’s Parramatta Observatory Revisited (1821–1825)

This presentation was delivered at the first HAAC seminar, 19 November 2025.

Click on the image or here for the link to the 16 minute YouTube recording.

Speakers: Mark Rigby OAM, Past Curator, Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, and

Tom Harradine, Independent Researcher and amateur astronomer 

Abstract: 

Parramatta Observatory was Australia’s first dedicated astronomical facility, quickly gaining international recognition with the recovery of comet Encke in 1822 - the first since Halley’s comet in 1758.  This presentation introduces NSW Governor Sir Thomas Brisbane, who funded and established the observatory, and explores his legacy as a key figure in the development of organised science in Australia. Drawing on archival sources and site visits, it brings to life the observatory’s daily operations during Brisbane’s governorship, highlighting the value of revisiting primary sources, examining in detail original observational records, and visualising this historical information. 

Bio: Mark Rigby OAM was Curator of the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium until retiring in 2021. He has promoted astronomy and space exploration through media work and 36 years at Brisbane’s planetarium. His interest in Sir Thomas Brisbane led to visits to relevant sites in Australia and Scotland, and involvement in naming minor planet Brisbane.

Bio: Tom Harradine is an independent researcher and amateur astronomer focussed on Sir Thomas Brisbane and the Parramatta Observatory, with particular attention to the original observational records. He seeks to broaden public awareness and education, and to support efforts that preserve and interpret Brisbane’s observatory sites in both Australia and Scotland.