European Observatories Map

Welcome to Astroshop’s European Observatories Map.
This map shows main observatories in Western Europe. There are currently 320 observatories on the map, 18 in Austria, 31 in United Kingdom, 36 in France, 84 in Germany, 95 in Italy, 27 in Spain and 29 in Switzerland. Our plan is to share "The Love for The Stars" to everybody.

Please let us know if you have updates to this map! 

Observatories in United Kingdom

Astronomical observatories: history, characteristics and curiosities

Touching the stars - Observatories

Stars - since the beginning of time, the twinkling celestial bodies in the firmament have been fascinating to mankind. Whether in Old Egypt, in the realm of the Maya, or in Ancient Greece - around the globe, and across time, the heavens have attracted us. Still we have not been able to solve all the mysteries of space. Thus far, mankind’s most prominent instrument in studying the phenomena of the universe has been the observatory.

What is an observatory?

An astronomical observatory, with its scientific instruments, is a means to observe and document the starry sky. The word originates from the Latin word observare, which means 'watch'. Our galaxy, planets, nebulae, stars, comets and co. are ‘closer’ than ever before.  Moreover, extragalactic celestial objects have moved more and more into the focus of observatories.

For centuries, astrometry has dominated the scientific activities of observatories. From the mid-19th century, astrophotography and astrophysics have become more important as well. Nowadays, observatories are true marvels of modern science. The telescopes continuously improve, enabling extensive insight into the depths of space. Observatories, located at higher altitudes, now concentrate increasingly on areas of non-visual radiation, such as near infrared, UV, and radio radiation, while space telescopes cover the shorter wavelengths, UV and X-rays. Observatories are not to be confused with planetariums. Planetariums project the celestial bodies artificially, while observatories observe actual celestial objects.

• Place with scientific instruments
• Observation and documentation of the starry sky
• Modern technology allows ever greater insight into space

Paranal Observatory - By ESO/Yuri Beletsky (ybialets at eso.org) [CC BY 4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Construction of observatories

Through observatories, we have become fascinated not only by the wonderful worlds that have recently come into our view - even the appearance of an observatory in itself is impressive. Depending on the nature of the observatory, there is also a wide range of construction and instruments. In general, the weather protection and the stability of the substructure are the top priority. Because of the dome, which closes in order to protect the sensitive instruments from the weather, observatories almost seem  'as from another planet'. In most cases, the entire upper part of the telescope dome can be rotated to allow the instrument a 360 degree view to observe different sections of the night sky. Brightly painted domes ensure good reflection and insulation against sunlight for a consistently cool air. To protect the instruments, especially telescopes at major observatories, from shock and vibration, they are usually mounted on a mechanical base separated from the rest of the structure.

• Diverse designs
• Stability of the substructure top priority
• Dome's primary function is weather protection
• Installation of the telescopes on mechanically separated base

What kinds of observatories are there?

The types and forms of observatories are diverse and vary according to the budget and scientific interest. Some observatories sit majestically on spectacular rock formations and are only inhabited by two scientists, while others might be found in the neighbor's garden next door, and have been built by amateur astronomers themselves. In general they can be divided into private and public observatories. In many cases, various institutions are connected to the observatories. There is also a distinction between school and university observatories as well as sole research institutes.

Observatories that serve mostly the purpose of cultural and scientific adult education are also called public observatories. The primary purpose of public observatories is to offer extensive programs for public education in astronomy. A second purpose may be to serve as a center for local hobby astronomers, or for interested astro-tourists. Since they usually have less complex instruments than research observatories, they are more accessible to amateurs. However, the influence of amateur astronomers working at public observatories should not be underestimated in any way, since many areas of astronomical observation are almost exclusively run by amateurs.

Many observatories are in private hands, and are operated by clubs or amateur astronomers. These are not - except occasionally upon request - open to the public. With a bit of luck, some monitoring stations can also be found in the neighbor's garden, since amateur astronomers increasingly have started to install their own personal observatories on their roof tops and protect them with small domes, a shutter, or a sliding roof. Some amateur astronomers realize the dream of an own observatory by instead constructing a garden observatory.

• Variety of observatories
• Publicly accessible observatories
• School and universtity observatories
• Private observatories (for example, associations, private individuals)

Siting of observatories

The most important requirement for sky observation is a clear view. Therefore, most monitoring stations are located on elevated sites. Often one encounters observatories in the most remote areas, as reduced light pollution and wind are important components for a successful observation. Mountain and desert locations with dry air and in the greatest possible height usually offer ideal conditions for the observation. These remote places are mostly untouched by light pollution and therefore provide a particularly clear sky. Examples here are the Paranal Observatory in the Chilean Atacama Desert, or the Mount Graham Observatory in Arizona, USA. The highest observatory in the world is the Mauna Kea Observatory in Hawaii at a height 4205 m.  As modern research observatories, public and school observatories are,  despite the suboptimal conditions, often found in less remote locations due to their more simplistic technical possibilities and functions.

• Location Requirements: clear vision, with little light pollution / atmospheric disturbances
• Mountain and desert locations with dry air at high altitude
• Public and school observatories are generally more centralized

Mauna Kea Observatory - By Sasquatch (Own work) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html), CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/) or CC BY-SA 2.5-2.0-1.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5-2.0-1.0)], via Wikimedia Commons 

The perfect time - periods of observation

Depending on the season / time of day, the different celestial bodies can be observed. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Planets and stars: In order to observe planets and stars, it has to be dark. Optimal conditions prevail in northern latitudes during the dark season from autumn to spring. Of course, such conditions can exist during the summer month, but at later hours, and with more pleasant temperatures.
2. Sun: When it gets dark very late in the summer months, and the nights are mild, the sun can be observed particularly well .
3. Moon: During the full moon phase, lunar observations should be avoided. The moon has little contrast at this time, and outshines dimmer celestial bodies.

• Conditions: Dark, clear skies
• Dark season from autumn to spring
• Solar observation during summer
• Lunar observation: avoid full moon

Admission prices of observatories

Ticket prices vary from observatory to observatory. The costs are sometimes less than £10 for adults, often well below. There might be reduced admission for pupils, students, pensioners, or families. Some observatories open their doors for only a small donation or are completely free of charge, depending on the nature and organization of the observatory. For further information contact the observatory near you.

• Variation in observatory structure and availability
• Sometimes less than £10 for adults
• Occasionally access granted by donation or for free

Opening times

In general, the opening times vary widely depending on the type, time of year, and the organization the observatory. Information about the current opening times can be found on the websites of the prevailing observatory.

• Significant differences

Support an observatory

Many observatories are in need of financial support, since enthusiastic volunteer work is unfortunately not always enough to maintain an extensive cultural and educational program. Financial support is not only welcome, but absolutely necessary in order to cover rent, staff, etc. There are a lot of ways to help: Many observatories offer a membership program, for example, while others are looking for sponsors or a hoping for donations. Of course you can also join the relevant association to support the observatory.

• Generally volunteers
• Supporting memberships
• Sponsorship and donations
• Associations

Historical development of the observatories

Chichen Itza Observatory - By Fcb981 (Own work) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/)], via Wikimedia Commons

The history of celestial observation is as old as the history of human civilization itself. Evidence for it dates back to the Stone Age - Stonehenge - the legendary circle of massive stone - is probably the most popular example. But ancient ruins like Chichen Itza, from the late Mayan period on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, Angkor Wat in Cambodia or the temples of Abu Simbel, exhibit how the stars and astronomical phenomena have always fascinated people around the world.

The observatory Cheomseongdae in Korea, is one of the oldest astronomical observatory in the world. The mighty ruler Shilla founded it in 632. In this time the Royal Palace was already interested in the changes and movements in the sky. Additionally, in the Arabic world magnificent observatories developed during the 7th century. An exact date when the first observatory was built, can not be determined. Observatories, in the modern sense, have existed in Europe since the 15th century.

Into the 17th century, observatories were places that served stargazers without telescopes. Meridian circles, sextant, armillary spheres, gnomons or sundials have been the instrument of celestial observation for a long time. At this time, the transition from the Middle Ages to modern times was marked by upheavals in Europe. The prevailing worldview began to waver: continents new to Europeans were discovered, wars, and the Reformation split Europe, and simultaneously, new philosophies developed. A breakthrough in the history of astronomy - and therefore in the historical development of observatories - was the development of different kind of telescopes in the 17th century. In 1668, Isaac Newton invented a type of reflecting telescope. Even today ‘Newtons’ are still preferred devices amongst amateur astronomers. James Gregory and Laurent Cassegrain also developed their own versions of the reflecting telescope during the years 1670 - 72. For the European nobility, astronomy served as a symbol of culture, education and prosperity. Therefore observatories functioned as a kind of status symbol of the donors, resulting in their rapid spread throughout Europe.

Consequently, a majority of observatories founded in the 19th century can be found in European cities, in order to be close to the donors and patrons. Most observatories were often in attics or attached to towers, likely free-standing observatories, such as the observatory Remplin, the oldest observatory in Mecklenburg, Germany, or the Mannheim Observatory, making up the cornerstones of modern observatories.

• First evidence of sky observation in the Stone Age
• Worldwide phenomenon
• Into the 17th century without telescopes
• Proliferation of reflecting telescopes from modern age on
• Promotion of Observatories by European nobility

Events and programms in observatories

Many observatories lure visitors with a rich offering of recreational activities, from an evening of observation to guided group tours or informative guest lectures on various topics. Of course, many observatories offer exciting programs for children, in which the kids learn about the solar system, planets, and stars in a fun and educational manner. Highlights are cosmic mega-events such as solar and lunar eclipses. In addition, some observatories offer 'telescopic consultations', where visitors can be advised in the use of their own telescope.

• Wide range of leisure activities
• Observation evenings
• Informative guest lectures
• Guided tours in and around the observatory
• Children's programs
• Mega Events: solar and lunar eclipses; meteor showers and comets
• Advice on personal telescope use

List of other European observatories

Austria

Italy

France

Germany

Spain

Switzerland