Tartu Observatory
Image: Wikimedia Commons
Tartu Observatory is the largest astronomical observatory in Estonia, located on Tõravere hill about 20 km south-west of Tartu in Nõo Parish, Tartu County.
About Tartu Observatory
Known in Estonian as Tartu Observatoorium, the institute rejoined the University of Tartu on 1 January 2018, becoming part of the university once again. It sits at an elevation of 75 metres.
History
The observatory was founded in 1964. Its predecessor, the old Tartu Observatory in the city centre, holds historical significance as the first reference point of the Struve Geodetic Arc and is connected to the astronomer Friedrich Georg Wilhelm von Struve.
Location & getting there
The observatory sits on Tõravere hill, roughly 20 km south-west of Tartu in Nõo Parish, Tartu County, Estonia, at an elevation of 75 metres above sea level.
Visiting Tartu Observatory
Check Tartu Observatory's own website for current visiting hours, tours, and programme details before travelling, as these can vary by season.
See your named star from here
Linked by history to one of the founding figures of positional astronomy, Tartu Observatory is a fitting place to think about your own star. A Star Register name comes with exact coordinates a telescope anywhere can use to find it. See our packages or the catalogue.
Opening hours and public-visit programs vary by season. Check the official website and Google Maps for current times before you travel.
