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Top 10 Observatories & Planetariums in Portugal, Portugal
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1. Observatorio do Lago Alqueva
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 264 reviews
The Observatorio do Lago Alqueva – OLA (Lake Alqueva Observatory) is an astronomical observatory next to the medieval village of Monsaraz. OLA offers almost daily tours of the magnificent night sky of Monsaraz, where one can learn the orientation by the North Star, identify the constellations and know their legends, relate stellar colours with their ages, observe star clusters, nebulas and distant galaxies with the help of telescopes. The explanations are presented with clear examples and language by OLA’s guides. When the weather is cloudy, we resort to a simulation using astronomy software. The observatory also promotes courses on astronomy and astrophotography and has a vast program of outreach talks and activities for the general public, schools and senior groups.
Reviewed By IdB11_NL - Utrecht, The Netherlands
We had a great evening with Nelson (and other families). He explained a lot about the (newborn) stars, planets, galaxies etcetera. And showed them with his telescopes. He has an enormous knowledge and can explain it very well. And every question was answered in a very clear way.
2. Santana Astronomical Observatory
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 28 reviews
The Observatório Astronómico de Santana (Santana's Astronomical Observatory) is a Science Center in the Azores, part of the Azores' Region Science Center Network, that has science and educational outreach as its main goal, always focusing in the themes of astronomy and space exploration. Our activities are focused on the schools' science educational programs, providing adequate learning bases to all students. We too work for the community, giving our region the access to astronomical material and continued formation to all ages and social backgrounds. More than being a science center, our work is supported on outreach activities, bringing astronomy to people, whoever and wherever they are.
3. Observatorio Oficial Dark Sky Alqueva
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 33 reviews
The official Dark Sky® Alqueva Observatory in Cumeada, a village near Reguengos de Monsaraz, is equipped with cutting-edge telescopes for solar and astronomical observations. These provide for a unique visual experience, from observing the planets to looking at the craters on the moon, moving on to the deeper sky with a cosmic journey among the nebulae, the galaxies and the swarms of stars.
Reviewed By 350ellison - Sevenoaks, United Kingdom
This was a brilliant star gazing experience - highly recommended. The conditions of the area give great prospects for seeing some amazing things and the observatory itself is really well equipped and though through (eg. Floor space has been cleared to avoid stumbling in the dark, steps for children to be able to reach the telescope). But the major advantage is Nuno whose commentary, ability to hunt out objects of interest and understandable answers to the most mind bending questions was all second to none. Despite the near full moon when we went, Nuno gave us great views of nebula, red dwarves, white dwarves as well as closer objects including an amazing view of Saturn’s rings.
4. Centro de Monitorizacao e Investigacao das Furnas
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 295 reviews
The Furnas Monitoring and Research Centre (CMIF) was created with the purpose of disseminating the history and evolution of the Furnas Volcano and the intervention of the Landscape Laboratory in the protection and recovery of ecosystems in the protected landscape area. It won the "Premio Internazionale di Pietra Architetture 2011 - XII edizione" award and it was finalist of SECIL Prize in 2013. It was the cover of the Spanish publication "El Croquis" and prominent target in some architectural websites. In 2016, won the "Tour Operator of the Year for Sao Miguel" in the "Holiday & Tour Specialist Awards" category of the Luxury Guide Awards. CMIF functions as an observatory and integrated centre for knowledge dissemination, playing an important role in the translation of scientific information to a language able of captivating visitors.
Reviewed By larrym194 - Silver Spring, United States
We visited as part of a Road Scholar program, and had the advantage of a pre-arranged talk by a staff member. She had a great story to tell, using an interactive map to show how the center has promoted and educated the public about the ecosystem surrouding and including Furnas Lake. The environmental center, the lake and the nearby town are in the caldera, basically the center, of the Furnas Volcano. She explained how the water quality of beautiful Furnas Lake was restored by the purchase of nearby farmland to stop chemicals from reaching the water. There's also a wonderful but easy hike around the lake. A unique ecosystem, and definitely worth a visit,
5. Centro Ciencia Viva de Constancia- Parque de Astronomia
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 52 reviews
6. Planetario de Espinho
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 7 reviews
An advanced planetarium, with high resolution 360º 3D digital projection. Completely surrounds the visitor with image and sound, in a true immersive experience. Shows about astronomy, biology, maths or pure entertainment. Some shows are live. The planetarium has an extensive programming and is recommended for all ages.
7. Planetario Calouste Gulbenkian
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 137 reviews
The planetarium adjoins the Maritime Museum. Some programs are in English, and some are geared toward children.
8. Observatorio Geofisico e Astronomico
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 10 reviews
