Markree Observatory

Markree Observatory is an astronomical facility in County Sligo that was equipped with telescopes and precision instruments designed for studying the night sky. The complex housed multiple specialized devices, each built for different observational and measurement purposes.

The facility was founded in 1830 and acquired a major telescope that ranked among the largest of its era. During the 1800s, it contributed to creating an extensive star catalog and to discovering celestial bodies.

The observatory contributed to astronomical research through a catalog of 60,000 stars created during the 1850s and the discovery of asteroid 9 Metis.

The site sits in a rural setting surrounded by open landscapes that allow for clear sky viewing. Visitors should prepare for changing weather conditions typical of this region in Ireland.

In its early years, the main telescope was exposed to weather and operated without protective covering for a long period. This unusual arrangement allowed unobstructed sky viewing but required constant care and adjustment of the equipment.

Location: County Sligo

Inception: 1830

Elevation above the sea: 44 m

GPS coordinates: 54.17429,-8.46147

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:03