Lund Observatory

Lund Observatory is an astronomical observation facility in Lund, Sweden, with buildings featuring architectural elements from the 1860s set within a park beyond the medieval city center. Researchers here pursue work in observational astrophysics, galaxy formation, exoplanet research, and high-energy astrophysics.

The observatory was founded in 1749 to replace an earlier structure from 1672 that was destroyed during the Battle of Lund in 1676. This history shows how larger events affected the development of scientific institutions.

The planetarium here offers educational programs that invite visitors to learn about stars and space, making astronomy accessible to everyone. This teaching role shapes how the place functions in the community today.

The site sits in a park outside the city center and is accessible on foot, with the surrounding area offering space to walk around. Visitors should plan time to explore both the buildings and the grounds, especially if planetarium programs are running.

In 1955, the Lund Panorama of the Milky Way was completed here under Professor Knut Lundmark's direction, mapping roughly 7000 stars in detail. This project remains a rare example of extensive sky mapping from that era.

Location: Lund Municipality

Inception: 1867

Architects: Helgo Zettervall, Peder Christian Sörensen

Official opening: 1749

Part of: Lund Observatory complex

Website: http://astro.lu.se

GPS coordinates: 55.69972,13.18778

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:23