Assy-Turgen Observatory

The Assy-Turgen Observatory, officially known as the Academician Omarov Assy-Turgen Observatory (ATO), is a high-altitude astronomical facility located in the Assy-Turgen plateau region east of Almaty, Kazakhstan. At 2,750 meters (9,020 feet) above sea level and situated within a national park, the observatory offers some of the finest observing conditions in Central Asia.

About Assy-Turgen Observatory

Operated by the Fesenkov Astrophysical Institute, the ATO serves as a premier research platform for astronomical observations across Kazakhstan and the broader post-Soviet region. The facility benefits from exceptional atmospheric transparency and excellent seeing conditions with average FWHM values below 2 arcseconds - among the best on Earth.

History

Construction of Assy-Turgen began in 1975, with first light achieved in 1981 using the Zeiss-1000 telescope. A major building project for the 1.5-meter telescope dome commenced in the early 1980s but was interrupted by the collapse of the Soviet Union. After nearly 22 years, construction resumed in 2014, culminating in the successful operation of the AZT-20 telescope in 2017.

Telescopes & research

The AZT-20, operational since 2017, is the largest telescope in Kazakhstan and among the most powerful in the post-Soviet region. The facility also retains historical instruments and continues active observational research programs spanning photometry, spectroscopy, and survey astronomy.

Location & getting there

The observatory stands at 2,750 meters elevation in the mountainous Assy-Turgen region, approximately 85 kilometers east of Almaty. The plateau's high altitude and remote location provide natural protection from atmospheric disturbance and light pollution. The nearest city is Esik, and the site is accessible during the summer months.

Visiting Assy-Turgen Observatory

Tourists can arrange one- or two-day guided tours to experience the observatory and explore the natural beauty of the Assy-Turgen plateau. The facility includes on-site hotel accommodations for visitors. The surrounding landscape offers mountain scenery, grasslands, and views of the Bartogai reservoir, plus nearby attractions such as a trout farm, ostrich farm, open-air museum, and waterfalls. For specific booking information and tour details, contact the Fesenkov Astrophysical Institute.

See your named star from here

The AZT-20 and other telescopes at Assy-Turgen can point toward any stellar coordinate, making it an exceptional venue to observe your named star. The high-altitude location and clear mountain atmosphere create unforgettable viewing conditions for connecting with your personal piece of the cosmos.