Serra la Nave Astrophysical Observatory
The Mario Girolamo Fracastoro Astrophysical Observatory is located in Serra la Nave at an altitude of 1725 m a.s.l., in the heart of the Etna park. The Observatory is immersed in an environment characterized by the volcanic nature of Etna, surrounded by oak and chestnut woods.
The site has cutting-edge telescopes and instrumentation for professional astrophysics research, but it is also a place of intense dissemination activity, aimed at schools, cultural associations and private citizens. All tours are led by professional astronomers.
Evening visits begin at sunset and include an introduction to astronomical topics and telescope observation of celestial objects. Finally, guests are accompanied on a spectacular journey with the naked eye among constellations, bright stars and, on the most peaceful nights, the Milky Way. Daytime visits dedicated to observing the Sun are also organized. Finally, thematic evenings are organized on the occasion of particular astronomical events, such as eclipses, observation of comets or meteor showers.
Of particular importance is the possibility of observation with a telescope also for people with motor disabilities. The Observatory also hosts scientific conferences and meetings, seminars and conferences for scientific dissemination.
