Kuffner-Sternwarte

About

The Kuffner Observatory was founded in 1886 by Moriz von Kuffner. Not only was he a patron of scientific research, first and foremost he was a successful entrepreneur (owner of the Ottakring brewery). Looking back to a rich history of scientific research nowadays the observatory is operated as a public astronomical observatory and museum, offering free tours and observations of the night sky. The primary dome houses the main instrument, a historical refracting telescope of 27 cm in diameter, that is used for public observations. The secondary dome houses the world's largest heliometer. This instrument was used to measure distances of stars and it's most peculiar feature is a split object lens of 22 cm in diameter. Other historical instruments, like Austria's largest meridian circle and sidereal angle clocks are exhibited in the west and north wings of the building.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes