TUBITAK National Observatory

TUBITAK National Observatory sits on a high mountain near Antalya and uses several modern telescopes to study distant stars and space. Different instruments work together to gather information about the cosmos and search for new discoveries.

Construction began in 1991 and the facility opened officially in 1997, bringing new possibilities for astronomical research in Turkey. With this establishment, the country gained an important tool for exploring space.

Scientists from many countries collaborate here to study the night sky and solve mysteries of space together. This international cooperation gives the observatory an important role in advancing astronomy across borders.

The facility sits at 2500 meters elevation, so bring warm clothing and allow time to adjust to the altitude. Plan your visit for clear nights when the sky is free of clouds and observations work best.

In 2017, researchers here discovered a new planet orbiting a distant star, roughly the size of Jupiter. This finding demonstrates how important this observatory is for detecting worlds beyond our solar system.

Location: Antalya

Inception: 1991

Official opening: 1997

Elevation above the sea: 2,500 m

Website: http://tug.tubitak.gov.tr

GPS coordinates: 36.82417,30.33556

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:08