ESO 3.6 m Telescope

The ESO 3.6-meter telescope is a research instrument at La Silla Observatory located at 2,400 meters elevation. The main mirror is made of fused silica and allows observations in both infrared and visible light.

The telescope began operating in 1977 and was one of the largest optical instruments in the Southern Hemisphere. A major modernization took place in 1999, significantly improving its capabilities.

The observatory attracts researchers from different European countries who work together on astronomical projects here. This collaboration has led to many scientific publications that are recognized around the world.

The telescope is not always open to visitors and usually requires advance booking or arrangement. It helps to contact the observatory ahead of time to ask about viewing opportunities.

The instrument is equipped with the HARPS spectrograph, which leads the world in discovering exoplanets. This tool has contributed to finding hundreds of planets outside our solar system through radial velocity measurements.

Elevation above the sea: 2,400 m

Diameter: 3.566 m

Part of: La Silla Observatory

Website: https://eso.org/sci/facilities/lasilla/telescopes/3p6.html

GPS coordinates: -29.26097,-70.73169

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:07