Harvard–Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics

The Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics is a research institution in Cambridge spread across several buildings on Harvard's campus, equipped with advanced telescopes and scientific instruments for space study. The facility houses laboratories, offices, and observation equipment where astronomers work on different aspects of understanding the cosmos.

The center was established in 1973 through a merger of Harvard College Observatory and Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory to advance astronomical research. This combination brought together two respected institutions to create one of the world's leading astrophysics research facilities.

The center shares its astronomical discoveries with the public through lectures, publications, and educational programs held on campus. Visitors can learn how scientists here uncover secrets of distant stars and galaxies in their everyday work.

The facility sits on Harvard's campus in Cambridge and is easy to find by walking around the university grounds. Check ahead to see which public talks or tours might be available for visitors interested in exploring the work done here.

The center operates observation stations in some of Earth's most remote locations, including specialized telescopes in Chile and a submillimeter-wave facility at the South Pole Station. These scattered locations allow astronomers to observe the sky from different vantage points and study diverse celestial objects.

Location: Cambridge

Inception: 1973

Website: http://cfa-www.harvard.edu

GPS coordinates: 42.38150,-71.12840

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:30