About the Observatory
La Specola (Photo E. Giro)
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About the Observatory |
La Specola (Photo E. Giro) |
The Astronomical
Observatory of Padova is one of the main structures of INAF National Institute
for Astrophysics. About 30 people of scientific staff plus 20
post-docs and students are hosted in the Observatory, together
with about 30 people for technical, administrative and support
services.
The main activity of the Observatory is to perform scientific
reasearches in various fields of Astrophysics. The Observatory
also contributes to advanced education, assists in the
dissemination of knowledge and implements project of education
and outreach of Astronomy.
The Observatory, known also with the name "Specola", is located
in the ancient part of the old medieval castle of Padova dated
from the 13th century. The building is located near downtown and
close to the ancient walls surrounding the town of Padova.
The structure is divided into three buildings: the "north wing "
including the tower, the "south wing" (anciently named House
of the Astronomer), and on the back, the House of the
Munizioniere. For further information about the history of
the Observatory, visit the Museum La Specola website.
The adjacent building on the Bacchiglione river accomodates the Astronomical
Department of the Padova
University.
Telescopes and other observational structures belonging to the
Observatory and to the Department of Astronomy are located in
Asiago (VI) plateau (1000m), about 90 km from Padova. Part of
these structures are open to the public; see the From
Asiago to the Stars website to book your visit.
 Specola
and Astronomy Department |
 Specola |
 Specola |
ADDRESS:
INAF-Astronomical Observatory of Padova
Vicolo dell'Osservatorio 5, - 35122 - PADOVA - ITALY
Tel. +390498293411 Fax. +390498759840