Stockert Radio Telescope

The Stockert Radio Telescope is a research facility in Eschweiler featuring a 25-meter parabolic reflector positioned in the Eifel mountain range. The structure stands at approximately 434 meters elevation and was designed as an astronomical observation instrument.

The facility was built in 1956 as Germany's first radio telescope and operated under the University of Bonn and Max Planck Institute until 1995. After that time, the telescope was continued by the Astropeiler Stockert association and repurposed for various uses.

The site hosted music festivals called Woodstockert between 1997 and 2004 when organized by Creamware, a digital audio company. This demonstrates how a research facility became a gathering place for cultural events beyond its scientific purpose.

The Astropeiler Stockert association offers group tours and educational programs that should be arranged in advance. Visitors should prepare for hillside terrain and bring warm clothing, as the location sits at elevation.

The telescope preserves its original control electronics from the mid-20th century, demonstrating how astronomical measurement instruments have evolved over decades. Visitors can see the old operating surfaces and newer improvements side by side.

Location: Eschweiler

Elevation above the sea: 433.9 m

Website: http://astropeiler.de

GPS coordinates: 50.56944,6.72201

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:49