Budkov Magnetic Observatory

Budkov Magnetic Observatory is a geomagnetic observatory in southern Bohemia, Czech Republic, in the district of Prachatice.

About Budkov Magnetic Observatory

Rather than studying the stars, Budkov monitors Earth's own magnetic field. It has been a member of INTERMAGNET, the global network of geomagnetic observatories, since 1994, and was established as a certified INTERMAGNET observatory in 1996, meeting the network's highest international standards for data quality.

Telescopes & research

The observatory's instruments include a three-axis ferromagnetic fluxgate sensor recording at second-by-second intervals, an Overhauser-type mobile magnetometer, and a CARL-ZEISS non-ferromagnetic theodolite used for absolute measurements roughly every ten days. Its data feed into the World Data Center in Boulder and the INTERMAGNET International Centers.

Location & getting there

Budkov sits in southern Bohemia, in the Czech Republic's Prachatice district, chosen for its low interference from artificial magnetic sources.

Visiting Budkov Magnetic Observatory

As a scientific monitoring station rather than a public viewing facility, Budkov does not operate as a visitor attraction; anyone with a research interest should contact the operating institute directly.

See your named star from here

While Budkov itself tracks Earth's magnetic field rather than the stars, a Star Register certificate gives you the precise sky coordinates that any astronomical observatory can use to find your named star. Name a star or explore the catalogue.