Jacobus Kapteyn Telescope

The Jacobus Kapteyn Telescope is a reflecting telescope with a one-meter primary mirror located at an elevation above 2300 meters on Roque de los Muchachos. It features an automated mounting system that allows it to track the night sky and can be controlled from distant locations.

Construction started in the 1970s with support from the Netherlands and United Kingdom and was completed in 1983. The first scientific observation took place in March 1984.

The telescope carries the name of a Dutch astronomer and is part of a research network that welcomes scientists from around the world to study the night sky from this location. It represents a shared scientific effort among multiple institutions working together on the island.

The observatory sits at high altitude in thin air, so visitors should allow time to adjust and bring warm clothing as temperatures drop significantly at this elevation. The access road is steep and requires either a personal vehicle or joining an organized tour.

During construction in 1983, the telescope's base served as an emergency landing platform for a British military jet fighter. This unusual incident remains one of the most memorable moments in the observatory's history.

Elevation above the sea: 2,369 m

Diameter: 1 m

Part of: SARA

Website: https://ing.iac.es/PR/jkt_info

GPS coordinates: 28.76117,-17.87808

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:02