Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory

Awesome place. Amazing landscapes and incredible astronomical instruments. There are some trees that you can grab some fruits like blackberries and apricots.

Strongly advise everyone to visit this magical place. Thanks to the kind and enthusiastic qualified specialists you may learn a lot of interesting things about the Earth, stars, planets and galaxies and enjoy an unforgettable observation of moon and other celestial objects with telescope. During a visit you would have the opportunity to watch at least 3 celestial objects.

Interesting place to learn about Armenian contribution to astronomy. We had a quick tour offered by a very enthusiastic scientist.

Best spot to have astrophotography. Amazing view of the town as well.

This is the place where earth and heaven meet together. Every time I visit here I think how the nature can be magnificent.

After this everything becomes nothing

In the small Armenian village of Byurakan, against the backdrop of Mount Aragats, one of the country’s highest spots, several silver domes can be seen shining in the sun. These domes cover the Byurakan Observatory, a premier astronomical center which was established during the Soviet era.

The man behind the observatory’s establishment is an Armenian hero, who led many advancements in astrophysics, both in the country and globally: Victor Ambartsumian (also styled Viktor Hambardzumyan). He was one of the earliest to work in the field of theoretical astrophysics and one of its pioneers.

The observatory was founded in 1946 and is home to what was for several years the largest telescope in the USSR, a 2.6m Cassegrain reflector. Under Ambartsumian’s leadership, studies at the observatory related to instability phenomena around the universe, which remains the cornerstone of their research program today. Ambartsumian himself lived near the facility and conducted experiments till he passed away in 1996.

Armenia has a long history of astronomical study dating back several thousand years and the observatory played a crucial part bringing it into the realm of modern science and study. The campus, owned by the Armenian National Academy of Sciences, was designed by the famous Soviet architect Samvel Safaryan and now houses five large observational instruments.

The grounds are beautifully landscaped and maintained, and the observatory hosts guided tours in several languages for a few dollars and also accepts proposals to use its powerful telescopes.

Fantastic location, founded in 1946 on the initiative of academician Victor Ambartsumian, who became the first director of the observatory. It is located on the picturesque southern slope of the mountain Aragatz. At the observatory five observational instruments are installed the larger ones being 2.6 m Cassegrain telescope and 1m Schmidt telescope. Scientific researches of the observatory are related mainly with the instability phenomena taking place in the Universe. Since 1946 numerous scientific meetings were held in Byurakan including four symposia and a colloquium of the IAU.

Fine place, interesting story

Interesting place, especially in autumn and summer. I have seen planet "Mars" there firts.))

Unique experience, specially if you have kids
Highly recommended

Ask for the guid! Passionate guy. Big telescope.

Very interesting and inspiring scientific institute to visit and learn about space.

Amazing!

A very nice place!

Old Soviet Buildings and Telescopes

You must try it

Nice place

Awesome

Many, many, many starts...