Navigate through the celestial wonders, the Galaxy, Nebulae, the Stars and of course the Moon
The Merate Observatory, together with the Brera Astronomical Observatory (OAB), is part of the INAF (National Institute for Astrophysics) and is located in the Villa San Rocco area, surrounded by a park with centuries-old trees and wonderful shrubs. Rhododendron, azalea, and hydrangea.
The Merate site hosts two historic domes open to the public for Evening visits
Evening visits
Guided sky observations typically take place 3 to 4 times a month when the Moon is in its first quarter. In addition to seeing our satellite in the telescope eyepiece, they allow you to observe deep-sky objects invisible to the naked eye.
Each evening begins with a presentation of the history and scientific-technological activities of the Observatory by the astronomer on duty, followed by a second session of direct telescope observation of the most significant astronomical objects visible during the period.
The activities last approximately 2 hours in total.
Open Night
The Merate site opens its doors to the public to showcase the frontiers of scientific and technological innovation in astronomy.
Our researchers will accompany you through the Merate laboratories, discovering the modern research conducted at our Institute.
We’ll also offer a brief tour of our telescopes.
Free Daytime Tours for Schools
Every first Friday of the month, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., we offer a free guided tour of the two domes that house our Ruths and Zeiss telescopes and the surrounding park, interspersed with stories, anecdotes, and curiosities!
Other services, such as telescope observation, are not included; specific events are scheduled for these.
Another Observatory of the National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF) is located in Milan at Palazzo Brera, where you can visit the Musab – Museum of the Astronomical Observatory with the Schiaparelli Dome and the historic Merz Telescope.
The Merate Observatory and, occasionally, the Specola di Milano organize evenings open to the public (“Open Nights”), guided tours, and conferences.
Astronomical Observatory
Via E. Bianchi 46
Merate (Lecco)
Lombardy – Italy
Website info (Merate)
Website info (INAF)
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