Hvezdáreň a planetárium M.R. Štefánika Hlohovec
Who wouldn't like the view of a night sky full of stars? You have certainly watched these glowing dots before and pointed your finger at Polaris or the Big Dipper constellation. Observing the night sky is one of the oldest activities in human history. In the past, people navigated by the stars and even used the starry sky as a calendar. If you are interested in astronomy, come to Hvezdáreň a planetárium M. R. Štefánika v Hlohovci and look into the infinite universe through the second largest telescope in Slovakia.
The history of astrology itself is as old as humanity. Observing the stars and mapping them led people to tell various stories, which were often connected with supernatural beings. Only later did they begin to write down and compare the results of their observations, which led to the construction of observatories. Institutions where scientists observe, study, and analyze natural phenomena.
The desire for knowledge also stands behind the creation of this observatory. Several enthusiasts from the pharmaceutical plant at the time decided to establish an Astronomy Club under the Works Club ROH at Slovakofarma. The initial impulse was a sale of old, high-quality military optics for cheap. However, they arrived too late for that, and the equipment was already sold out. Nevertheless, this changed nothing in their decision, and on February 10, 1954, the history of astronomy in Hlohovec began to be written.
The mission of the club was to organize popular-science lectures and pass on knowledge about the universe to the youth. It was also tasked with carrying out professional astronomical observations and establishing a public observatory. The grand opening of Hvezdáreň a planetárium M. R. Štefánika took place on November 29, 1958. Alongside the observatories in Prešov, Levice, and Humenné, it thus became the fourth scientific research institute for astronomical observations in Slovakia established after World War II.
The observatory provides several programs for schools, kindergartens, and the general public, including observations, lectures, seminars, and screenings of various professional and educational documentary films. The hall with a capacity of 56 seats houses a high-quality Zeiss ZKP-2 planetarium, which allows projecting an artificial sky, the Sun and the solar system, the Moon, planets, and stars, as well as the Milky Way.
In addition, the observatory engages in observations and regularly publishes its findings in professional literature. Observational activities for both the public and scientific purposes are provided by the observation and research department. Do not forget to arrange your visit to this interesting place in advance by phone.
After an engaging excursion, visit Hlohovský zámok and walk through the magnificent French terraced gardens in the chateau park. From the castle, head to Kúpalisko Hlohovec, which will guarantee you true summer refreshment. The surroundings of Hlohovec offer many great attractions that are worth seeing and visiting. If you like the idea of an actively spent vacation, do not wait and book accommodation near Hvezdáreň a planetárium M. R. Štefánika right now. You will certainly choose from our wide range of accommodation in Hlohovec.
