The Virtual Telescope Project, pair of robotic (net-operated) optical telescopes in Ceccano, Italy
The Virtual Telescope Project is an astronomical observatory in Ceccano that operates telescopes over the internet and offers public live viewings of the night sky. The installation uses advanced robotic telescopes to observe planets, comets, asteroids, and other celestial objects while streaming real-time images to viewers worldwide.
The project was founded in 2006 by Italian astrophysicist Gianluca Masi to share space images with the public and researchers worldwide. After 2023, the telescopes relocated from Ceccano to Manciano in the province of Grosseto, expanding its capabilities and scope.
The name refers to how the project brings astronomy into people's homes through the internet, removing barriers to space exploration. Expert presenters guide viewers during live sessions, creating a shared experience that connects communities from different countries around a common fascination with the night sky.
Live sessions take place at night when the sky is dark enough to see distant objects, and are available free online. Visitors can follow the events on a computer, tablet, or smartphone without needing any special astronomical knowledge or equipment.
The project was among the first to let the public see space images live online while an expert explained what was being viewed in real time. This combination of technology and live explanation made space exploration more accessible to people around the world than traditional observatories ever could have.
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