Abu Rayhan al-Biruni Observatory

Abu Rayhan al-Biruni Observatory is Iran's foremost astronomical research facility, located on the outskirts of Shiraz in Fars Province and operated by Shiraz University. Named after the renowned medieval Persian scholar Abu Rayhan al-Biruni, the observatory houses the country's largest active telescope and serves as a central hub for professional astronomical research and solar studies.

History of Biruni Observatory

Construction of the observatory began in 1973, with scientific operations commencing in March 1977, making it Iran's second major observatory after Maragheh. Over decades of operation, the facility has evolved as a leading centre for astronomical research and observation in the Middle East.

Telescopes and Instruments

The observatory is equipped with three major telescopes: a 40-centimetre reflector, a 60-centimetre telescope, and a modern 24-inch (61-centimetre) active telescope added in 2016. Each instrument is housed within a separate three-storey dome with specialised features to minimise atmospheric interference and enhance observational precision. The facility contains the largest active telescope in Iran.

Research Focus

Biruni Observatory specialises in solar studies and professional astronomical observations. As one of the largest active astronomical research centres in Iran, it contributes to understanding solar phenomena and conducts high-resolution sky observations.

Location & Getting There

Situated to the north-west of Shiraz in Fars Province, the observatory benefits from the region's relatively clear skies and relatively high elevation. The location places it in one of Iran's key cultural and scientific centres.

See Your Named Star from Here

The observatory's telescopes can be directed to any coordinates to view celestial objects. Register a star through our star-naming packages and use our star catalogue to find its coordinates for observation.