The History of Astronomy in Queensland

In Queensland during the 19th century, there was no group of wealthy amateur astronomers willing to initiate astronomy as a science in its own right. Instead, astronomy was regarded in a purely pragmatic way, as a tool for surveying, timekeeping and meteorology. As a result, no serious steps were ever taken in Queensland to create a govermment-funded astronomy centre.

This century, in contrast to the low profile of professional astronomy, Queensland amateurs have formed vigorous groups, usually under the leadership of dynamic and dedicated individuals who have spent large amounts on privately owned instruments for long-term protects. Individual amateurs have achieved prominence in the fields of flam stars, lunar occultations, supernova discoveries, and asteroidal occultations.