Leopold-Figl-Observatorium, Research observatory in Lower Austria, Austria
The Leopold-Figl-Observatorium is a research facility in Lower Austria equipped with two telescopes, including a large 1.5-meter Ritchey-Chretien instrument and a smaller 0.6-meter telescope. Both instruments enable detailed astronomical observations and scientific measurements from Mitterschöpfl mountain.
The facility opened in 1970 as a gift for the University of Vienna's 600th anniversary celebration. Lower Austria played a key supporting role in founding this research site.
The observatory serves the University of Vienna's research and teaching programs while hosting regular public viewing nights for visitors. These events allow people to observe stars and planets through the telescopes and learn about current astronomical work.
The facility sits at 883 meters elevation on Mitterschöpfl mountain, offering excellent conditions for astronomical observation with minimal light interference. The elevated location and mountainous setting are worth considering when planning a visit.
The facility has its own aluminizing plant for producing and coating telescope mirrors on-site. This specialized workshop allows the optical components to be maintained and optimized locally.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
