Albanyà Observatory

In the wooded hills of Albanyà, in Catalonia, northeast Spain, the Albanyà Observatory looks out over one of the country's darkest skies, about 85 kilometres north of Girona.

About Albanyà Observatory

Albanyà Observatory is a public astronomical facility built around a 40-centimetre automated telescope, the largest in Girona province. It sits inside Bassegoda Park, within the Albanyà Dark Sky Park, and focuses on astronomical education and public outreach.

History

The observatory was inaugurated in July 2017. That same year, Albanyà Dark Sky Park became the first International Dark Sky Park in Spain, certified by the International Dark-Sky Association in June 2017. Since late 2018, the observatory has also collaborated with NASA on observation and monitoring work.

Telescopes & research

The heart of the facility is its 40-centimetre automated telescope, used both for public astronomy sessions and, since 2018, for observation and monitoring work carried out in partnership with NASA.

Location & getting there

Albanyà Observatory sits within Bassegoda Park in the Girona region of Catalonia, Spain, inside the protected boundaries of the Albanyà Dark Sky Park - one of the darkest, least light-polluted corners of the country.

Visiting Albanyà Observatory

The observatory welcomes the public for stargazing and educational visits. Opening times and session bookings vary by season, so check the official Albanyà Observatory website before travelling.

See your named star from here

Because Albanyà Observatory's telescope can be pointed at any set of sky coordinates, staff can help you find the exact spot where your named star shines from this dark-sky location. Browse the star catalogue to look up your star before you visit.