The Asiago Astrophysical Observatory, founded in 1942 by the University of Padua, is an emblematic place for astronomical research and scientific dissemination. Located at 1045 meters above sea level on the Asiago Plateau, it offers an ideal setting for studying the sky and for educational activities aimed at students and enthusiasts.
The Galileo Telescope
Inside the Observatory is the Galileo telescope, a reflector with a 122 cm primary mirror which, at the time of its inauguration, was the largest in Europe. This instrument has made possible important studies on variable stars, supernovae, and galaxies, contributing to the creation of a valuable data archive. Today the Galileo telescope continues to be used for monitoring transient phenomena, for teaching exercises and as a test bench for advanced optical technologies.
The Structures
The Observatory, designed by architect Daniele Calabi in the 1930s, includes the dome of the Galileo telescope, offices, guest houses and the Multimedia Room. The latter, obtained from the dome that housed the 67/92 Schmidt telescope, is an environment dedicated to educational activities for the public and schools. Equipped with telescopes such as the Celestron C-11 and the Coronado solar telescope, the room is also accessible to people with disabilities thanks to an elevator.
The Cima Ekar Observation Station
A few kilometers from the historic headquarters, the Cima Ekar station (OAPd/INAF) houses the 182 cm Copernicus telescope, the largest on Italian soil, together with the 67/92 Schmidt telescope. This structure, at an altitude of 1350 meters, is dedicated to advanced research and offers cutting-edge instruments for astronomical observation.
Visits and activities
The Observatory is open to the public with guided tours that include the possibility of accessing the dome of the Galileo telescope and seeing it up close. In the Multimedia Room, thematic lessons, workshops, and observation sessions of bright celestial objects are organized, with remote connection to the Galileo telescope.
Access and reservations
Visits and educational activities are available by reservation. For more information on times, access methods and proposed initiatives, consult the dedicated page here.