Haute-Provence Observatory, Provence Travel Guide

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Explore the cosmos at the Haute-Provence Observatory, a historic site of astronomical discovery in the heart of southern France.

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Haute-Provence Observatory

The Haute-Provence Observatory (OHP), located in southeastern France, is a premier astronomical research facility offering guided tours of its historic telescopes and a glimpse into the world of astrophysics. It's known for its clear skies and pivotal role in discovering the first exoplanet orbiting a sun-like star.

A brief summary to Haute-Provence Observatory

Saint-Michel-l'Observatoire, 04870, FR
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Haute-Provence Observatory.

Check the official website or contact the Saint-Michel l'Observatoire Tourist Office for the latest tour schedules and ticket information.
Tours are primarily offered in French; inquire about English-language options when booking.
The observatory is at a high altitude; dress warmly, even in summer, and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Astronomy Center of Saint-Michel l'Observatoire for a broader astronomical experience.
Consider visiting during the summer for the 'été astro' program, offering activities for children, adults and school groups.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Palais des Papes

Château des Baux-de-Provence

Provence Cross

Troglodyte caves of Villecroze

UNESCO Géoparc de Haute-Provence - Musée Promenade

Explore Haute-Provence Observatory on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Haute-Provence Observatory, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From the A51 motorway, take the Oraison/Forcalquier exit (19). Pass through La Brillanne and follow the D4100 towards Forcalquier. Then, follow signs to Saint-Michel-l'Observatoire and the observatory. Parking is available on-site. Be aware that there might be a small parking fee.
Public Transport

Take a train to Manosque. From Manosque, take local bus line 18 towards Saint-Michel-l'Observatoire. The bus ride is approximately 30 minutes. From the bus stop in Saint-Michel-l'Observatoire, it is a short walk to the observatory. Check local bus schedules in advance. Bus tickets cost a few euros.

Discover more about Haute-Provence Observatory

Nestled in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, about 90 km east of Avignon and 100 km north of Marseille, the Haute-Provence Observatory (OHP) stands as a beacon for astronomical research and public education. Established in 1937, this national facility has been instrumental in numerous groundbreaking discoveries, most notably the discovery of the first exoplanet orbiting a main-sequence star, 51 Pegasi b, in 1995, a feat that earned Michel Mayor and Didier Queloz the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2019.Located at an altitude of 650 meters, the observatory benefits from exceptionally clear skies, with over 300 clear nights per year, making it an ideal location for stargazing and astronomical observations. The OHP houses several reflecting telescopes, including the iconic 1.93-meter telescope, the 1.52-meter telescope used for spectroscopic studies, and the original 1.20-meter telescope installed in 1943.Visitors can take guided tours of the observatory, exploring the great dome and learning about the ongoing research conducted by the CNRS (French National Centre for Scientific Research). The tour often includes a documentary film about the observatory's activities and a visit to the 1.93m telescope. The Astronomy Center of Saint-Michel l'Observatoire also offers various astronomy-related activities throughout the year.