Phuthuy Magnetic Observatory
Satellite imagery: Esri, Maxar, Earthstar Geographics
Phu Thuy Magnetic Observatory is a geomagnetic research station located near Hanoi, Vietnam.
About Phu Thuy Magnetic Observatory
The observatory was created in 1957 to monitor the ionosphere and measure changes in Earth's magnetic field, and became fully operational in 1962. In 1992 it was modernised by the Institut de physique du globe de Paris in collaboration with the Institute of Geophysics (VAST) in Hanoi.
Telescopes & research
Rather than optical astronomy, Phu Thuy's research focuses on geomagnetism, including the study of quiet-day variations in Earth's magnetic field known as the Sq current system.
Location & getting there
The observatory is located in Vietnam, in the Asia region, near Hanoi. As a scientific monitoring station, it is primarily a research facility rather than a public visitor site.
Visiting Phu Thuy Magnetic Observatory
Given its role as a specialised geophysical research station, check with the Institute of Geophysics (VAST) in Hanoi for any visiting or educational access before planning a trip.
See your named star from here
Though Phu Thuy focuses on Earth's magnetic field rather than the stars, the same skies stretch above it — if you've named a star through Star Register, look up its coordinates in our star catalogue and find a nearby astronomical observatory to view it.
Opening hours and public-visit programs vary by season. Check Google Maps for current times before you travel.
