Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is a research facility in Cambridge that partners with Harvard College Observatory under the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. It operates sophisticated telescopes and instruments at multiple locations to observe celestial objects and collect astronomical data.

The observatory was founded in 1890 by Samuel Pierpont Langley as a research branch of the Smithsonian Institution. It initially studied solar radiation before expanding its focus to broader astronomical research and discovery.

The observatory maintains extensive scientific collaborations through its joint operation with Harvard College Observatory, fostering international research partnerships and educational initiatives.

The facility conducts observations from multiple locations, including a mountain observatory in Arizona and telescope equipment in Hawaii. Visitors can visit the Cambridge location to learn about ongoing research projects and space science work.

The institute compiled an extensive star catalog containing nearly 260,000 stars that helped researchers identify artificial satellites from photographs. This catalog became an essential tool in the early days of space exploration.

Location: Cambridge

Inception: 1890

Founders: Samuel Langley

Address: 60 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA 02138

Website: https://cfa.harvard.edu/sao

GPS coordinates: 42.38146,-71.12837

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:26