Uecht Observatory

Uecht Observatory has watched the skies above the Langenberg ridge near Niedermuhlern, in Switzerland's Canton of Bern, since 1951.

About Uecht Observatory

Founded by Willy Schaerer in 1951, the observatory began as a private observation station and sits at an elevation of around 954-960 metres within the Gantrisch Nature Park.

History

The original 1951 telescopes are still preserved on site, a physical record of the observatory's founding era. In 1974, equipment at Uecht contributed to the discovery of the supernova SN 1974G.

Telescopes & research

In September 2023, Uecht opened new facilities including an 8K planetarium and what is described as Switzerland's largest public telescope, alongside the historic instruments from its founding.

Location & getting there

The observatory sits on the Langenberg above Niedermuhlern, in the Gantrisch Nature Park in Switzerland's Canton of Bern.

Visiting Uecht Observatory

Uecht Observatory is not freely accessible; visits take place through public events or booked tours. Contact the observatory at +41 31 819 12 57 or via its website for current opening details.

See your named star from here

From a historic 1951 telescope to Switzerland's largest public instrument, Uecht Observatory spans generations of stargazing. If you've named a star, its coordinates could be pointed to from a site like this; see it and others in the catalogue.