The astronomical observatory, won in competition in 2005, was completed for the Kielder Partnership in May 2008 and has been acclaimed by architectural critics, the astronomical community and the public. The first observatory to use a 'land pier' form and all timber construction, it is the perfect vessel for introducing newcomers to the delights of star-gazing in Kielder's dark night skies from its two permanent telescopes. During the day, the observatory serves as a belvedere for surveying the unique landscape of Kielder Water and Forest Park from a vantage point high on Black Fell. The observatory is entirely self-powered by means of a wind turbine and photovoltaic panels and features a red lighting system, a composting WC and spectacular rotating turrets as telescope enclosures. The observatory has been published around the world, won a RIBA award and a Civic Trust Award in 2009 and was short-listed in the inaugural World Architecture Festival in 2008.