Xinjiang Astronomical Observatory

The Xinjiang Astronomical Observatory is a research facility in Ürümqi with multiple stations equipped with modern telescopes, including a 25-meter radio telescope at Nanshan Station and Qitai Station. The facility operates instruments for observing celestial objects and collecting scientific data across different locations in the region.

The facility was founded in 1957 as Ürümqi Astronomical Observatory and received its current name in 2011. It now operates as part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences for broad astronomical research.

The observatory organizes public stargazing events where visitors can observe the night sky and learn about celestial objects and phenomena. These programs connect the local community with astronomical science.

Visitors can attend organized events and view the telescopes at different locations based on public access availability. It is advisable to check opening times and access restrictions beforehand, as some areas may be limited for research purposes.

The facility maintains a highly precise network for tracking pulsars and contributes data to China's lunar exploration program. These measurements are so accurate that they can detect tiny cosmic phenomena that only a few observatories worldwide can achieve.

Location: Ürümqi

Inception: 1957

Website: http://english.xao.ac.cn

GPS coordinates: 43.47120,87.17780

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:22