Leopold-Figl-Observatorium
Image: Wikimedia Commons
The Leopold-Figl-Observatorium für Astrophysik sits on Mitterschöpfl mountain in Lower Austria, straddling Altenmarkt an der Triesting and Klausen-Leopoldsdorf within the Wienerwald Biosphere Park.
About Leopold-Figl-Observatorium
Operated by the University of Vienna, the observatory stands at an elevation of about 882–883 metres. It houses a 1.5-metre primary mirror telescope - the largest in Austria - alongside a 0.6-metre telescope in a second building.
History
Groundbreaking took place on 13 September 1966, and the observatory was inaugurated on 25 September 1969. It was a gift to the University of Vienna from the state of Lower Austria, marking the university's 600th anniversary in 1965, under the initiative of Governor Leopold Figl, after whom it is named.
Telescopes & research
The observatory supports practical training for astronomy students as well as long-term scientific projects, including work on minor bodies and supernovae.
Location & getting there
The observatory is located on Mitterschöpfl mountain in Lower Austria, in the core zone of the Wienerwald Biosphere Park, within reach of Vienna.
Visiting Leopold-Figl-Observatorium
Public access is limited to an annual Open Day event; check the University of Vienna's announcements for the date before planning a visit.
See your named star from here
Austria's largest telescope trains students on real skies every clear night - the same skies that hold the coordinates of a star named through Star Register. Name a star, or browse the catalogue of stars already named.
Opening hours and public-visit programs vary by season. Check Google Maps for current times before you travel.
