Mount John University Observatory, Astronomical observatory in Mackenzie District, New Zealand.
Mount John University Observatory operates five research telescopes at 1029 meters elevation, overlooking Lake Tekapo in South Canterbury.
Founded in 1965 by the University of Canterbury, the observatory established itself as New Zealand's primary center for astronomical research and discoveries.
The observatory participates in international research collaborations, including the Microlensing Observations in Astrophysics project with Japanese astronomers.
Visitors can join guided day or night tours through Dark Sky Project Ltd to observe stars and learn about astronomical research.
In 2008, scientists at the observatory discovered MOA-2007-BLG-192Lb, a planet 3.3 times larger than Earth, orbiting a star 3000 light years away.
Location: Mackenzie District
Inception: 1965
Official opening: 1965
Elevation above the sea: 1,029 m
Website: https://canterbury.ac.nz/science/facilities/field-and-research-stations/mount-john-observatory
GPS coordinates: -43.96848,170.46696
Latest update: May 14, 2025 20:30
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