SPAG Monfrague observatory
Satellite imagery: Esri, Maxar, Earthstar Geographics
SPAG Monfragüe Observatory operates in the Monfragüe area of Cáceres province, Extremadura, Spain, a robotic facility built for deep-sky astrophotography under some of Europe's darkest skies.
About SPAG Monfragüe Observatory
The observatory specialises in robotic deep-sky astrophotography, measuring a Sky Quality Meter value of 21.5, a strong reading that reflects the region's exceptionally dark night skies. A related facility nearby in Torrejón el Rubio houses a 25-centimetre Meade telescope inside a 4-metre dome that can accommodate around 10 people.
Location & getting there
Monfragüe sits within Monfragüe National Park in Extremadura, a region recognised in early 2017 as the first in Extremadura to receive Starlight Destination accreditation for the quality of its night skies. The park is already known as one of Europe's premier spots for observing the stars.
Visiting SPAG Monfragüe Observatory
The nearby Torrejón el Rubio facility can host small groups for stargazing sessions, though the main SPAG Monfragüe Observatory itself is a robotic installation; check locally or with regional astro-tourism operators for current visiting arrangements.
See your named star from here
Under Extremadura's Starlight-certified skies, the coordinates of a star named through Star Register are as easy to trace as anywhere in Europe. Look up your star in the catalogue and picture it above the cliffs and forests of Monfragüe.
Opening hours and public-visit programs vary by season. Check Google Maps for current times before you travel.
