Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam, Research institute and astronomical observatory in Babelsberg, Germany
The Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam is a research center in Babelsberg that studies galaxies, stars, and planets using modern telescopes and specialized equipment. The facility uses data from observatories in Arizona, Chile, and Tenerife as well as radio equipment at the Potsdam-Bornim station for astronomical measurements.
The institution was founded in 1700 as the Berlin Observatory and relocated to Babelsberg in 1913, where it developed into a major research center. Throughout the 20th century it played an important role in studying magnetic fields and contributing to space missions.
The Einstein Tower and Great Refractor on Telegrafenberg show how astronomical observation methods changed over time. Visitors can see how earlier generations of astronomers worked with optical instruments to study the sky.
The facility is located on Telegrafenberg and can be reached by public transport. Visitors should allow adequate time to explore both the historical buildings and the modern research facilities.
The institute develops technologies for large modern telescopes and contributes to international space missions. This work has helped scientists understand the structure and properties of magnetic fields throughout the universe.
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