Melbourne Observatory

The Melbourne Observatory was constructed in 1861–63, and expanded until 1902 to eventually comprise 22 rooms. Far from only stargazing, the Observatory staff provided critical scientific data essential for the smooth running of industries ranging from shipping to farming and city business to politics.The Observatory was the home for weather forecasting, time setting, setting weights and measures standards and for the surveying of Victoria. The distinctive shapes of the buildings, built and added to between 1861 and 1902, topped by sliding domes and opening roof structures evoke immediate recognition of their functions as devices for tracking and charting stars, watching the weather and keeping time.rbg.vic.gov.au/visit-melbourne/attractions/melbourne-observatory