Mount Abu Observatory, Astronomical observatory in Sirohi district, India
Mount Abu Observatory sits at Guru Shikhar peak at 1,680 meters elevation and houses five telescopes within white domes for astronomical research. The telescopes are housed in separate buildings designed for observations of celestial objects.
The Physical Research Laboratory submitted proposals for the observatory in the 1970s, leading to construction of the first telescope building in 1986. This marked the beginning of modern astronomical research on the mountain.
Indian scientists work together at this national research facility using locally developed instruments like the PARAS-2 spectrograph for space exploration. The observatory represents an important center for the country's astronomical research efforts.
The facility provides around 150 cloud-free nights annually with minimal water vapor, making conditions ideal for infrared observations. Visitors should prepare for thin air and variable weather at this elevation.
The 2.5-meter primary mirror telescope is the largest astronomical instrument at the site and is used for precise exoplanet detection studies. This telescope allows researchers to examine distant worlds orbiting other stars.
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