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Heather Couper & Kelvin Stephens open the Observatory

On a typically cloudy evening in May 1997, the Wycombe Astronomical Society closed one chapter in its history and opened a new and even brighter one.

January 18, 1991 was the day that Chiltern District Council gave us the final go ahead to build an observatory in the grounds of Woodrow High House.

Six years, four months and three days later, our President, Dr. Heather Couper cut the ribbon hanging across the our gateway to the stars and unveiled a plaque commemorating our achievement.

Many members braved the constant threat of rain to see Heather congratulate us for many years of hard work, from the laying of the foundation to the provision of the food for the opening evening.

She said "it is wonderful to have an Observatory in Buckinghamshire" and that there is "very little astronomical provision in Buckinghamshire".

To loud applause and with scissors in hand, Heather said "On the 21st May 1997 at 19:15 GMT, I would duly like to declare the Chiltern Observatory Open."

Heather then pulled away the Wycombe Astronomical Society flag covering a commemorative plaque on the inside of the door to the Observatory.

Left to right: Shaun Taylor, Nigel Henbest, Heather Couper, Roy Hickman and Kelvin Stephens pose in front of the observatory.

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