Shanghai Astronomical Observatory
Image: Wikimedia Commons
Overlooking Sheshan Hill on the outskirts of Shanghai, the Shanghai Astronomical Observatory (SHAO) has carried out astrometric research since 1962 and today operates a 25-meter radio telescope linking it to observatories worldwide.
About Shanghai Astronomical Observatory
SHAO has built a long history in astrometry, the precise measurement of star and object positions, and remains an active research institute within the Chinese Academy of Sciences network.
History
The observatory was founded in 1962, building on the site's role as one of China's key astronomical stations.
Telescopes & research
SHAO operates a 25-meter Sheshan radio telescope, which forms part of both the Chinese VLBI array and the European VLBI Network (EVN), linking its observations with radio telescopes across the world for high-precision astronomy.
Location & getting there
The observatory sits on Sheshan Hill on the western outskirts of Shanghai, China, part of the wider Asia region, near the well-known Sheshan Basilica.
Visiting Shanghai Astronomical Observatory
Check the observatory's official website before travelling for current visiting hours and any public tours, since access to the working research site can vary.
See your named star from here
SHAO's radio telescope routinely tracks precise celestial coordinates, the same right ascension and declination that come with any star named through Star Register. Search the catalogue to find yours.
Opening hours and public-visit programs vary by season. Check the official website and Google Maps for current times before you travel.
