Tõravere Astronomical Observatory: A Look at the World’s Oldest Operating Observatory
Tõravere astronomical observatory is the oldest operating observatory in the world. Located in the small village of Tõravere in Estonia, the observatory was built in 1711 by the local priest Johannes Loodus. The observatory has been in continuous use since then, and is today a popular destination for astronomers, tourists, and science enthusiasts from around the globe.
History of the Observatory
The Tõravere Observatory was constructed in 1711 by the village priest Johannes Loodus. He wanted to promote the study of astronomy and used his own funds to build the observatory. It is believed that he had some assistance from the local farmers, who donated their labor and materials to help build the observatory.
Once it was completed, Loodus began to use the observatory to make observations of the night sky. Over the years, the observatory has been used for various astronomical studies, including meteorology, astrometry, and astrobiology. In the early 20th century, the observatory was used by the University of Tartu for their studies.
In the 1960s, the observatory fell into disrepair and was abandoned. It wasn’t until the early 1990s that it was restored and began to be used again. Since then, it has been in continuous use for various astronomical studies.
Facilities at the Observatory
The observatory is situated on a hilltop and is surrounded by a beautiful forest. It consists of two main buildings, one of which is the main observing tower, which stands at a height of 17 meters. The other building is a laboratory, which is used for various experiments and research projects.
The observatory is equipped with several powerful telescopes, including a 25 inch refractor, a 10 inch reflector, and a 20 inch reflector. These telescopes are used for various astronomical studies, such as the tracking of comets and asteroids, the observation of distant galaxies, and the study of the sun’s activity.
The observatory also houses several other instruments, such as a spectrometer, a meteorological station, and a seismometer. These instruments are used to study various aspects of the earth’s climate, the atmosphere, and the interior of the planet.
Visiting the Observatory
The observatory is open to visitors throughout the year, and guided tours are available. During the summer months, guided tours of the observatory are offered every Wednesday and Saturday. During the winter months, tours are offered every Sunday.
Visitors are also welcome to use the telescopes to observe the night sky. The observatory is equipped with a powerful telescope, which is available for public use. Visitors can also use the telescope to observe planets, stars, and galaxies.
Conclusion
The Tõravere Astronomical Observatory is a unique and fascinating destination for anyone interested in astronomy. Its long history and its modern facilities make it a great place to visit and explore. Whether you’re a professional astronomer or simply an enthusiast, a visit to the Tõravere Astronomical Observatory is sure to be an unforgettable experience.