Teide Observatory

Teide Observatory sits at 2,390 metres on Mount Teide, Tenerife, in Spain's Canary Islands, and has been one of the world's leading astronomical sites since 1964.

About Teide Observatory

Known in Spanish as the Observatorio del Teide and carrying the IAU code 954, the observatory has been operated by the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC) since its inauguration in 1964.

History

Teide Observatory quickly became one of the first major international observatories, drawing telescopes from countries around the world thanks to its exceptional astronomical seeing conditions. Over time, the emphasis for optical telescopes gradually shifted toward the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory on the neighbouring island of La Palma, though Teide has remained an important research site.

Telescopes & research

The observatory has hosted instruments from multiple nations over the decades, reflecting international recognition of Tenerife's clear high-altitude skies as prime territory for astronomical observation.

Location & getting there

Teide Observatory is located on the slopes of Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak, at 2,390 metres elevation on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, off the coast of northwest Africa but part of Spain and the European Union.

Visiting Teide Observatory

Given its altitude and active research role, visitors interested in touring Teide Observatory should check the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias website for current tour options, opening hours and any permit requirements before travelling to Mount Teide.

See your named star from here

Few places combine astronomical prestige and dramatic scenery quite like Mount Teide. The same clear high-altitude air that has drawn international telescopes here since 1964 can help reveal a named star's exact coordinates. Browse the star catalogue or name a star to begin.