Svetloje Radio Telescope

The Svetloje Radio Telescope is an observatory facility in Priozersky District in northwestern Russia that captures radio signals from space. The equipment is designed to detect faint signals from distant objects like galaxies and black holes using specialized receivers and antennas.

The Russian Academy of Sciences built this facility in 1997 to strengthen Russia's capabilities in astronomical research. Since its opening, the observatory has contributed to important discoveries that have advanced our understanding of the cosmos.

The facility connects with observatories worldwide, allowing scientists to work together on shared research goals. Visitors can learn how this cooperation shapes modern astronomy and brings people from different nations together around common questions about the universe.

The site is located in a quiet rural area with limited public access since it is reserved for research. Visitors should check in advance whether tours or visits are possible, and dress appropriately for the northern climate.

The telescope uses a technique called very-long-baseline interferometry, which means it works together with other radio observatories worldwide. This method allows scientists to see finer details from space than any single telescope could achieve alone.

Location: Priozersky District

Official opening: 1997

Elevation above the sea: 86 m

Website: http://iaaras.ru/dept/svetloe

GPS coordinates: 60.53222,29.78167

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:06