Monteviasco Astronomical Observatory

High above Val Veddasca and Lake Maggiore, near the village of Monteviasco in Italy's Varese province, this observatory takes advantage of some of Lombardy's darkest skies.

About Monteviasco Astronomical Observatory

Known as the Stazione Astronomica di Monteviasco (SAM), the main observatory sits at roughly 900 metres above sea level and houses a 30cm telescope used for scientific research and astronomical photography. It uses both conventional and CCD cameras to photograph comets and supernovae, taking advantage of the site's low light pollution.

History

SAM was inaugurated on 25 July 2009. The observatory later went through a period of abandonment before being taken over and restructured starting in 2025, returning to full operation in May 2026. A second observatory with a remote-controlled dome is currently under construction at the site.

Telescopes & research

The main dome's 30cm telescope, paired with conventional and CCD cameras, is used to photograph comets and supernovae, benefiting from the low light pollution around Val Veddasca.

Location & getting there

The observatory sits near Monteviasco village in the province of Varese, Lombardy, at around 900 metres above sea level, with views down over Val Veddasca and Lake Maggiore.

Visiting Monteviasco Astronomical Observatory

Following its 2025–2026 restructuring, the observatory has returned to full operation. Check current visiting arrangements with local tourism resources before travelling, as opening details may still be settling in after the site's reopening.

See your named star from here

With dark, low-light-pollution skies and a working research telescope, Monteviasco is a strong candidate for spotting a named star. A star named through Star Register has exact coordinates ready to hand to an observer here. Browse our naming packages or search the catalogue.