Krasnopresnenskaja Observatory MSU
Image: Wikimedia Commons
The Krasnopresnenskaja Observatory is a historic astronomical site on the campus of Lomonosov Moscow University in Russia, founded in 1831.
About Krasnopresnenskaja Observatory MSU
Housed in a stone building with a round tower designed by D.G. Grigoriev, the observatory was established in the Krasnopresnenskaya neighbourhood of Moscow as part of the university.
History
Its first director was D.M. Perevoshchikov, who led the observatory from 1824 to 1851, followed by the notable astronomer Fyodor Aleksandrovich Bredikhin from 1873 to 1890. The observatory produced Russia's first spectral observations of celestial objects and the Sun, laid foundations for astrophotometry, and carried out systematic sky photography and variable star research. It also ran an exact time service from 1860, later transmitting radio time signals from 1931.
Telescopes & research
The observatory preserves a historic 15-inch double astrograph telescope along with other period instruments from its era of active research.
Location & getting there
Krasnopresnenskaja Observatory is located on the Lomonosov Moscow University campus in the Presnensky District of Moscow, Russia.
Visiting Krasnopresnenskaja Observatory MSU
The site has been converted into a museum showcasing its historical instruments. Check ahead locally for current opening hours before visiting.
See your named star from here
A historic observatory like this is a fitting place to think about the stars overhead. Name a star of your own with Star Register and explore the night sky in our star catalogue.
Opening hours and public-visit programs vary by season. Check Google Maps for current times before you travel.
