Observatory in Königsleiten

The observatory in Königsleiten (SalzburgerLand) opened its doors to tour groups in 1996, adding the Zeiss Planetarium in 1997 (the highest planetarium in Europe, according to the Guinness Book of Records) with a 7 m dome, where as many as 50 people at a time can enjoy a tour of the realistic night sky.
By means of slides and video images, astronomical objects are effectively projected onto the planetarium dome, appearing just as they would if they were observed through a telescope. The focus here in Königsleiten is on sharing as much information as possible with the broader public.
Both in the planetarium and the observatory, interested visitors are explained in terms comprehensible to the lay person just what's going on in the solar system, the Milky Way and throughout the universe.

The Königsleiten observatory also works closely with other public observatories and astronomical institutions, including: Salzburg Starwatchers; Munich Observatory;"Max Valier" Amateur Astronomers Bolzano and, last but not least, the largest and most modern observatory, the European Southern Observatory (ESO), Chile and Garching near Munich.

Research Work at the Königsleiten Observatory: Shakhbazian Galaxy Groups - An example of galaxy cannibalism

Königsleiten Observatory is engaged in international research work with other institutions.  The primary focus of their scientific efforts is in the effects that different solar systems and galaxies have on one another. These galaxies generally occur in families scattered throughout the universe, i.e. in galaxy clusters. One phenomenon which requires study is that of galaxy cannibalism, in other words, over the course of time, larger systems will "eat up" the smaller ones. Astronomical studies such as these are generally conducted within international partnerships, which is very much the case here with us in Königsleiten.

Königsleiten Observatory collaborates - both on a temporary and a permanent basis - with several astronomical institutions around the world.

Königsleiten Observatory

Lean back in the Königsleiten Planetarium and discover the first stars in the sky as they begin to appear at dusk.

Surrounded by the music of the ether, you will quickly lose yourself in thought and forget your daily cares.  The last rays of sunlight are extinguished and, out of the darkness, the stars begin to twinkle in all of their natural, incredible glory.

During a personally moderated Planetarium Show "The Current Night Sky", you will be shown how to find a few constellations, including the Little Dipper, for yourself, as well as what else you might discover if you look through your telescope on a clear night. You can see more than 7,000 stars at the planetarium - and the shapes of figures which are superimposed on the stars, make it a little easier to distinguish the constellations.

Hours + Planetarium Shows:
June, July and September and October (Wednesday through Sunday at 2:30 and 8:30 p.m.)
August (Tuesday through Sunday at 10:30, 1:30, 3:30 and 8:30)

Summer Season: Wednesday to Sunday, children's program (for ages 3-9) at 4:30 p.m.  Every Tuesday: a show will be given in the Dutch language.

Mid December until the beginning of April
Wednesday through Sunday at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m.  

+ Telescopic observations are conducted when skies are clear after the 8:30 p.m. show. In nice weather, we will take a look at the sun after our star shows.

Hiking Path
The Planet Path will take you out across the high plateau in Königsleiten, accompanied by panoramic views of the countless 3,000 meter peaks of the Hohe Tauern (National Park).

Lasts: 2 to 3 hours
Prices: included in the admission price

Adopt a Star
Stars. of course, can't be bought; and they can't be officially named either. We offer you the opportunity, however, to adopt a star in the night sky of the planetarium - the highest in all of Europe!  By doing so, you will support the educational mission of the observatory and the investments associated with that mission.