Aerial tramway of the Plateau de Bure

The Plateau de Bure aerial tramway is a cable transport system that connects a valley to a height of about 2550 meters and enables access to radio astronomy facilities. The installation consists of a series of pylons that support cables and cabins that function as both passenger and cargo carriers.

This cable car was built to support the construction and maintenance of the Plateau de Bure Interferometer, a major radio observatory facility in the Alps. The system made it possible to transport heavy scientific equipment to the high-altitude plateau.

This cable car brings researchers from around the world to the observatory, making this place a center for international radio astronomy work. The regular use by research teams shapes the identity of this remote plateau as a living workspace.

Access to the cable car is limited and requires advance arrangement, as the system primarily operates for scientific work. Visitors should expect changeable weather conditions at high altitude and dress warmly.

The cable car transports not only people but also scientific instruments and spare parts for the observatory in sometimes extreme conditions. This dual function makes the system a unique blend of research logistics and infrastructure.

GPS coordinates: 44.66111,5.93861

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:43