Ostrowik Observatory, Astronomical observatory in Gmina Celestynów, Poland
The Ostrowik Observatory is a research facility operated by the University of Warsaw, equipped with a 60-centimeter Cassegrain reflecting telescope and modern digital camera systems. The installation sits at 200 meters elevation southeast of Warsaw and operates continuously for monitoring variable stars.
The facility was founded in 1948 as part of the University of Warsaw's astronomical research network, after damage during World War II required extensive reconstruction. This rebuilding effort helped restore the university's research capacity in observational astronomy.
The observatory serves as a working space where astronomy students at various levels come to learn and conduct their research under supervision. It functions as part of the university's teaching mission, connecting young researchers with hands-on experience in observational astronomy.
The observatory is located in a quiet rural area southeast of Warsaw and is easiest to reach by car or organized transport. Visitors should plan visits during clear weather, as clouds and light pollution from the city can affect observations.
The observatory contributes to international research projects that systematically monitor millions of stars across different galaxies to detect rare cosmic events. This collaboration allows detection of fleeting astronomical phenomena that would be missed by isolated observations.
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