Tavolaia astronomical observatory

Tavolaia astronomical observatory is a public observation facility near Santa Maria a Monte, in the province of Pisa, Italy, founded in 1999.

About Tavolaia astronomical observatory

The observatory is managed by the Associazione Astronomica Isaac Newton (Isaac Newton Astronomical Association), and holds the Minor Planet Center designation A29, reflecting its contribution to recognised astronomical observations.

History

Founded in 1999, the observatory has spent over two decades introducing the public of the Pisa area to astronomy through open nights and educational programmes.

Telescopes & research

Beyond public outreach, the observatory's team monitors supernovae, asteroids, comets and variable stars, contributing amateur observations to the wider astronomical community.

Location & getting there

Tavolaia sits near Santa Maria a Monte in Pisa province, Tuscany, in central Italy, making it a reachable stop for visitors exploring the Tuscan countryside.

Visiting Tavolaia astronomical observatory

The observatory hosts public observation nights with free admission, though donations are welcomed, alongside constellation-identification sessions and educational programmes for visitors of all levels.

See your named star from here

With a team already tracking variable stars, comets and asteroids, Tavolaia is an especially fitting place to look for a star named in someone's honour. Bring your star's coordinates to one of the observatory's public nights, or find it yourself with any telescope pointed at the right RA and Dec. Browse the star catalogue or name a star today.