DALMELLINGTON is set to gain a new tourist attraction that is out of this world.

The Trustees of the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory have hit a fund raising target to build a planetarium as an addition to the observatory.

At present, the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory occupies a hilltop site on the edge of the Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park.

The observatory has become a popular haunt for amateur astronomers keen to get a look at some of Earth's natural phenomena.

The observatory has two large telescopes through which people can go to observe the night sky.

Now, the site at Craigengillan Estate has raised enough funds to build a purpose built planetarium which it is expected will be completed by March 2017.

The Trustees of the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory are now expected a rush to inspect the new planetarium once it is complete as keen astronomers get an eyeful of stars, planets, and constellations.

The Chair of the Trustees, Mark Gibson said: “With the dedication and hard work of the resident astronomer and manager, the observatory has been going from strength to strength and has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence by Tripadvisor.

"We are incredibly excited to be able to go ahead with building the long planned planetarium as an extension of the observatory and will complete the work this year. The planetarium will enhance the experience of visitors and will enable us to welcome greater numbers with great benefits to the local community.”

The observatory was officially opened back in 2012.

The current planetarium is a mobile inflatable dome which is used to take to primary and secondary schools and can accommodate over 40 people.

Upon completion the new planetarium building will be a permanent fixture at the site.