Oppolzer Observatory

Tucked into the Botanical Garden of the University of Innsbruck, Oppolzer Observatory began as a private astronomical station and now survives as a museum dedicated to its founder and to early 20th-century astronomy.

About Oppolzer Observatory

Oppolzer Observatory was built on the grounds that are now the Botanical Garden of the University of Innsbruck, Austria. After extensive renovation, its main building reopened in 2014 as the Historic Observatory Museum, which still operates as a museum and historic site today.

History

The observatory was founded in 1904 by the astronomer Egon von Oppolzer, born in Vienna in 1869, who financed its construction by selling an inherited art collection. Oppolzer died in July 1907 from blood poisoning contracted while gardening, and the observatory was renamed Innsbruck Observatory in 1909 following his death.

Location & getting there

The site sits within the Botanical Garden of the University of Innsbruck, in the Austrian Alpine city of Innsbruck, making it an easy stop for visitors already exploring the university grounds.

Visiting Oppolzer Observatory

The building now operates as the Historic Observatory Museum. Check the University of Innsbruck's official page for current opening hours before you visit.

See your named star from here

A visit to this century-old astronomical site is a fitting backdrop for thinking about your own place in the night sky. Name a star with Star Register or browse the star catalogue to find its coordinates for your next stargazing outing.