The Observatorio del Teide, or Observatory of Teide, is regarded as one of the most important observatories in the world. Inaugurated in 1964, its position up in the mountains of Tenerife assures crystal clear skies for optical telescopes and it is especially suited to study of the Sun. It currently houses some of Europe's main solar telescopes.
There is a bewildering array of different telescopes, some affiliated to different countries and universities.
As you can see from the above, the Observatorio del Teide is a serious installation used by professional astronomers undertaking important research, but, fear not, part of it is open to the public, under strict conditions. Visits may only be made between the months of April and December. Visits may only take place during daylight hours. A minimum of fifteen visitors at a time is required. Visitors are required to fill in an application form. Visits may be cancelled due to weather conditions. Any visitors wishing to use the Mons telescope during their visit must make a request for this in advance. | ![]() Photo: Besnier.m |
As you can see from the above, the Observatorio del Teide is a serious installation used by professional astronomers undertaking important research, but, fear not, part of it is open to the public, under strict conditions. Visits may only be made between the months of April and December. Visits may only take place during daylight hours. A minimum of fifteen visitors at a time is required. Visitors are required to fill in an application form. Visits may be cancelled due to weather conditions. Any visitors wishing to use the Mons telescope during their visit must make a request for this in advance.
contact details:
Telephone: (+34) 922 329110
Email: teide@iac.es
Website: www.iac.es/eno.php?op1=3&lang=en
To get to the Observatorio del Teide, you need to be on the TF-24 mountain road. From the north, this goes directly from La Laguna.
From the south, take the TF-1 motorway, exiting at junction 11 (Guimar). This will put you onto the TF-61 to Guimar at which point you turn right (just before a Shell petrol station). Now you are on TF-28 and you need to turn off this, to the left (watch out for a small sign saying "Piramides de Guimar").
This is now TF-525 and you should stay on it. It eventually turns into TF-523 and now it becomes very winding as it takes you up into the mountains. It finishes at a junction with the TF-24, where you should turn left.
This road will take you to the road to the Observatory, turning off to the left.
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