planetary astronomical observatory of Anzi

The Planetary Astronomical Observatory of Anzi combines a working telescope with a full planetarium in the hill town of Anzi, in Italy's Basilicata region.

About the Planetary Astronomical Observatory of Anzi

For around fifteen years, a team of astronomers, educators, and enthusiasts has run this dual-purpose site: part research observatory, part planetarium built to explain the sky it observes. It's known locally as the "Planetario di Anzi" and combines public education with genuine astronomical observation.

Telescopes & research

The observatory's main instrument is a 420mm reflecting telescope in a Ritchey-Chrétien configuration, with an F8 focal ratio and a 1.5-metre focal length. Alongside it sits a planetarium with a 12-metre dome, capable of projecting around 5,000 stars visible from the Northern Hemisphere. The site runs planetarium shows, astronomical observations, school visits, and even a mobile astronomy unit that travels to schools and events elsewhere. Over the years it has worked with Italian astronauts Paolo Nespoli, Umberto Guidoni, and Luca Parmitano, as well as experts from NASA, ESA, and the Italian Space Agency (ASI).

Location & getting there

Anzi is a small town in the Province of Potenza, in the mountainous interior of Basilicata in southern Italy. Use the map and directions above to plan your visit.

Visiting the Planetary Astronomical Observatory of Anzi

The observatory regularly welcomes school groups and the public for planetarium shows and observation sessions. Because programmes and hours can change seasonally, check the observatory's official website before you travel to confirm current opening times and how to book.

See your named star from here

A planetarium dome can project thousands of stars, but a real observatory can also aim its telescope at the actual coordinates of a star named through Star Register. Name a star of your own, or browse the star catalogue to see stars already claimed.