Observatory director Judith Bailey said the event had been running every year since at least 2010, but this year was different due to expansion which had been created through a partnership with BBC and the new science channel in Australia.

Ms Bailey also hinted at more special events coming up at the observatory next year.

“Next year is the 130th anniversary of the Baker Telescope, the 100th anniversary of the Jelbart Telescope, the closest approach of Mars in the rest of your lifetime (and your children's) and the 60th anniversary of the Ballaarat Astronomical Society,” she said.

The telescope was built by retired sea captain Henry Baker who became the observatory’s first superintendent.

“We are putting together a range of events to raise funds for the observatory for refurbishment of the Baker Telescope and inside the buildings, bringing exhibitions to the  BMOM and expanding the museum collection and activities,” Ms Bailey said. 

“The BMOM houses one of the best collections of telescopes and is one of the best preserved 19th century regional observatories in Australia. The observatory is a unique science resource in Ballarat and our aim at the BMOM, is to expand our programs and events for the community's benefit.”

In August SCINEMA films will be screened at more than 250 local community venues across Australia, as part of the largest science film festival in the southern hemisphere. 

Films being featured in the event are on a variety of topics including archaeology and antiquity, the human body and movement, energy and transport, environment and nature, health and medical issues, space and astronomy and innovation and technology.

Participants have the chance to win a Go Pro Hero 5 camera if they vote for their favourite movie. Film sessions cost $5 for an adult, $10 for a family and $5 for concession holders with screenings from 11-19 of August. 

For more information about the movie line up, visit observatory.ballarat.net/events/event/science-week-2017. The observatory can also be contacted on 5332 7526 between the hours of 4-7pm or at observatory.ballarat.net