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Kuffner Observatory: A Window to the Stars

Explore the cosmos at Vienna's historic Kuffner Observatory: Discover 19th-century instruments and witness the wonders of the night sky.

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The Kuffner Observatory, perched atop the Gallitzinberg in Vienna, offers a captivating journey through astronomical history and celestial exploration. Founded in 1884 by Moriz von Kuffner, it served as a private research institution before becoming a public observatory and educational center. Visitors can explore historical instruments and observe the wonders of the night sky.

A brief summary to Kuffner Observatory

  • Wednesday 9 pm-10:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 pm-10:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 pm-10:30 pm
  • Sunday 3 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as observations with the telescope are only possible during good weather.
  • Guided tours are available by request, offering insights into the observatory's history and instruments.
  • The observatory is located on the Gallitzinberg, offering panoramic views of Vienna.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Vienna, take the U3 subway line to the Ottakring station. From there, take the 46B or 146B bus to the 'Ottakringer Bad/Kuffner-Sternwarte' stop, which is directly in front of the observatory. Alternatively, from Ottakring station, it's a 15-minute uphill walk: Head west on Thaliastraße, then turn left onto Johann-Staud-Straße. A single Vienna public transport ticket costs €2.40.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from central Vienna to the Kuffner Observatory takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for the ride. Taxi base fee is 5 EUR, with an additional 1.4 EUR per kilometer.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Johann-Staud-Straße 10, 1160 Vienna. Parking is limited near the observatory, especially during evening events. Street parking is available, but it can be challenging to find a spot. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €2-€4 per hour.

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Discover more about Kuffner Observatory

Located in Vienna's Ottakring district, the Kuffner Observatory provides a unique blend of history, science, and education. Founded in 1884 by Moriz von Kuffner, head of the Ottakringer brewery, the observatory quickly gained international recognition as a private research facility. Equipped with state-of-the-art instruments, including a double refractor and a heliometer, it attracted renowned astronomers who conducted groundbreaking research. Karl Schwarzschild, a pioneering figure in astrophysics, also conducted significant work here. Scientific observations continued until 1917 when the observatory closed due to World War I. It reopened in 1947 as a public observatory and educational center. The Vienna city council acquired the facility in 1987 and initiated a comprehensive refurbishment, ensuring the preservation of its historical instruments and architectural integrity. Today, the Kuffner Observatory serves as a vibrant hub for astronomical education and outreach. Visitors can embark on guided tours showcasing historical equipment, including the impressive 270 mm refracting telescope and the colossal heliometer, one of the largest of its kind ever built. Weather permitting, visitors can observe celestial objects through powerful telescopes. The observatory also houses a library of rare books and manuscripts, offering insights into the evolution of astronomical thought. The observatory's elevated position offers panoramic views of Vienna.

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