In the beginning of the program, we will take a walk in the park of the astronomical institute, surrounded by ancient trees. We learn about the romantic history of the historical buildings, as well as the most exciting research currently underway in the institute.
At the Budapest Dome, we will visit the city’s largest telescopes, and we get to know the history of the observation instruments and the stories of the astronomers.
With the help of the giant telescope, we will examine the Sun, admire the structure of sunspots, and observe fountain-like solar prominences.
Finally, in the lecture hall, we will explore the dazzling world of meteorites. We will discuss the story of shooting stars, where they come from, and how the Solar System was formed. With our polarizing microscopes we will project and examine the rainbow-colored crystals of various meteorite types. Finally, we will touch the billion years old meteorites, to feel how heavy these space stones really are.
Our program is in English, it takes 2 hours, and is recommended from age 12.
Address: 1121 Budapest, Konkoly-Thege Miklos u. 15-17.
Access by public transport:
The Svábhegy Observatory can be reached from Széll Kálmán Square via buses 221 or 21, which depart from Várfok Street. You can also board these buses at Déli Pályaudvar or on Alkotás Street. Bus 221 has a direct stop at the Observatory (Csillagvizsgáló); from here, it is a short forward walk to the Observatory’s visitor entrance. The visitor entrance is in front of the main research building. From the final stop of bus 21 (Normafa, Visitor Center), the Observatory is a 5-minute walk away.
The Observatory can be reached from the Pest side by taking bus No. 212 from Boráros Square. The bus runs also to the Normafa Visitor Center.
Visitor parking is not available on the Observatory ground. Please park with your car in the designated parking lots in the Normafa area, which are also close to the Observatory. On weekends and holidays, parking is subject to a fee from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Entrance:
The Observatory has two entrances. The researchers’ entrance, accessible only to institute staff, is located next to the Observatory (Csillagvizsgáló) bus stop. The visitors’ entrance, reserved exclusively for visitors, is located in front of the main building.
Accessibility:
The buildings of the Svábhegy Observatory are NOT ACCESSIBLE by wheelchair; due to their architectural and historical nature, this is not feasible.
