Penzing Astrometric observatory

In the Penzing district of Vienna, Austria, the Penzing Astrometric Observatory carries out precise positional measurements of solar system objects under Minor Planet Center observatory code A73.

About Penzing Astrometric Observatory

Registered with the International Astronomical Union, the observatory is used for astrometric observations of minor planets and other solar system objects. Available records suggest it corresponds to, or is closely associated with, the historic Kuffner Observatory (Kuffner-Sternwarte) in Vienna's Ottakring district, founded in 1886 by Moriz von Kuffner.

History

The Kuffner Observatory was equipped historically with a heliometer and a meridian circle, and was notable for advancing photographic astrometry methods in its era. After the Second World War, increasing light pollution led it to convert primarily into an educational facility rather than a frontline research site.

Location & getting there

The observatory is located in Penzing, one of Vienna's western districts, placing it within easy reach of the Austrian capital's public transport network.

Visiting Penzing Astrometric Observatory

Check the observatory's website before visiting to confirm current opening times and any educational programs on offer.

See your named star from here

Astrometric observatories like this one exist to measure exact positions in the sky, the same kind of coordinates that come with every named star from Star Register. Explore the catalogue to see stars already named.