Narsarsuaq Magnetic Observatory

The Narsarsuaq Magnetic Observatory sits in the high-latitude auroral region of Greenland, monitoring the Earth's magnetic field rather than the stars above.

About Narsarsuaq Magnetic Observatory

Narsarsuaq is one of four permanent geomagnetic observatories operated as part of the Denmark and Greenland network, run by the Danish Meteorological Institute and forming part of DTU Space's Greenland magnetometer array. Its position in the auroral zone makes it especially valuable for tracking geomagnetic activity.

History

The observatory's data archive stretches back to 1926, giving it one of the longer continuous magnetic records in the region. In 2024, new instrument housing was built at the site using non-magnetic materials such as wooden nails and brass doorknobs, so the structure itself would not interfere with the sensitive measurements.

Telescopes & research

Rather than telescopes, Narsarsuaq's instruments are magnetometers that continuously record variations in the Earth's magnetic field. The station contributes to the AE (auroral electrojet) index, a key measure used worldwide to monitor geomagnetic storms and auroral activity.

Location & getting there

The observatory is located in Greenland, in a remote high-latitude setting well inside the auroral zone - the same region that produces some of the world's most striking northern lights displays.

Visiting Narsarsuaq Magnetic Observatory

As a scientific monitoring station rather than a visitor attraction, Narsarsuaq is not generally set up for public tours. If you are travelling to the area, check locally for access information before visiting.

See your named star from here

Greenland's clear, dark auroral skies are also excellent for stargazing. A local observatory or telescope operator can be given the right ascension and declination of any star named through Star Register. Name a star or explore the star catalogue.