Štefánik Observatory

All year round you can observe the day and nighttime sky, learn about the observation equipment, check out the permanent exhibition, and much more at the Štefánik Observatory on Prague's Petřín Hill.

The Štefánik Observatory was built in 1928 near the Hunger Wall on the Petřín Hill. However, it got its current look much later during an extensive reconstruction in the 1970s. The aim of the Štefánik Observatory is to popularize astronomy and related natural sciences, which it achieves not only through the observatory itself, but also through holding lectures on astronomy and related topics as well as through themed exhibitions. Anytime during opening hours, whenever the weather is clear, visitors can observe the sky through a telescope – in the daytime the observation focuses on the sun, and after dusk the telescopes shift to the moon and the planets of the solar system. Observations are accompanied by an expert explanation and parents and children alike are welcome to ask the local professionals for more information (the staff speak English). In the permanent astronomical exhibition, visitors can experience interactive exhibits, view optical experiments as well as historical apparatus and technical equipment, and see computers with astronomical information and animations. School children of all ages can take part in any of the events of the program, which can be tailored specifically to fit school groups.

If you are thinking of places to take your curiosity-filled children in Prague, set off for an educational trip to the Štefánik Observatory. Do not forget to check the observatory's website before your visit, as you can learn practical information about interesting phenomena visible in the sky during the current month on the website.