Puntos de Interés
Information
Roque de los Muchachos Observatory
La Palma’s Roque de los Muchachos Observatory is a prestigious astronomical centre. Standing at an altitude of approximately 2,423 m above sea level, its location offers optimal atmospheric conditions for astronomical observation, benefiting from dark skies and low light pollution, which guarantee an exceptional environment for the study of the cosmos.
This complex houses a variety of observatories and telescopes, both optical and radio astronomical, operated by various international institutions. These include the Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC), one of the most imposing structures with a primary mirror 10.4 m in diameter, and the Telescopio Nazionale Galileo (TNG), with an aperture of 3.58 m.
Scientific institutions and space agencies from all over the world take advantage of the facilities of the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory to carry out research and observations of astronomical relevance. Due to the sensitivity of the instruments, access to the observatory is usually restricted and reserved for authorised personnel and scientists. However, some observatories do organise public visits and outreach activities. Over the years, the Observatory has played a crucial role in contributing significantly to discoveries and advances in astronomical research, covering areas such as astrophysics, cosmology and space astronomy.