Ústecká hvězdárna, Astronomical observatory in Telnice, Czech Republic
Ústecká hvězdárna is a small astronomical observatory in Telnice perched on a southern slope at approximately 480 meters (1,575 feet) elevation. The building is compact, measuring roughly 9 meters (30 feet) long and 5 meters (16 feet) wide.
The observatory was founded in 1929 by the Society of Friends of the German University in Prague. Operations ended in 1945 when its equipment was dismantled and removed from the site.
The location on a southern slope was chosen to give the best view of the night sky for stargazing. This positioning reflects how the founders understood what astronomers needed to do their work.
Visitors should know that the hilltop location means access can be challenging in wet or stormy weather, and the ground may be muddy. Clear nights with good visibility offer the best conditions for visiting.
The original roof was fully retractable and could open completely to provide unobstructed views of the entire sky. This clever design was essential for telescopes to observe without any barriers blocking the view.
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