Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, Research observatory in Saanich, Canada.
The cylindrical structure rises 22.3 meters high with a domed roof, featuring white metal panels and classical architectural details at 227 meters above sea level.
The observatory opened in 1918 with the Plaskett Telescope, which was designed to be the largest telescope in the world at that time.
The National Research Council facility maintains two principal research telescopes, supporting extensive studies in optical imaging, spectroscopy, and spectropolarimetry.
Scientists can request observation time through quarterly peer reviews, accessing both telescopes and data through the Canadian Astronomy Data Centre.
The Plaskett Telescope received technical improvements that made it 10,000 times more sensitive than when it was first installed.
Location: Saanich
Architects: Edgar Lewis Horwood
Official opening: 1918
Elevation above the sea: 227 m
Operator: National Research Council Canada
GPS coordinates: 48.52017,-123.41800
Latest update: October 20, 2025 09:20
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