The Canopus Hill Observatory houses a 1 metre telescope and is situated approximately 12 km from Hobart. Because of its high southern latitude (43 degrees South) the telescope provides opportunities for study of the Magellanic Clouds throughout the year.

Telescope instrumentation includes a 2 channel high speed photometer with UBVR and clear filters and a CCD photometer with SITe 512x512 pixel backside-thinned CCD and 6 channel filter wheel. Johnson-Cousins BVRI, Washington CM, and a small selection of narrowband filters (Hα, Ca HK, DDO51) are available. These are mounted at the f/11 Cassegrain focus. The observatory owns a high resolution Coudé spectrograph which is currently being retrofitted for use with an optical fibre system. Auto-guiding is achieved with an auxiliary telescope and fast imager. We are currently examining the potential to improve image quality by active cooling of the primary mirror during daylight hours.

The latest Observer's Notes are now available on-line. Essential reading for anyone using the Canopus telescope. Because observing procedures can sometimes change on a day-to-day basis there is a section on current problems/tips/warnings.