Did You Know About These Best Space Observatories In India?

OT Staff

Indian Astronomical Observatory, Ladakh

Perched high in the mountains of Ladakh, this observatory is one of the world’s loftiest. Its large telescope supports crucial research on gamma-ray bursts, supernovae, and deep-space phenomena.

At the Indian Astronomical Observatory, Hanle | Shutterstock

Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences, Uttarakhand

This institute, with India’s largest optical telescope, stands at a significant elevation in Nainital. It drives research in stellar astrophysics, galaxy formation, and planetary sciences.

A view of Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences, Nainital, Uttarakhand | Wikimedia Commons

Udaipur Solar Observatory, Rajasthan

Located on an island in Udaipur’s Fatehsagar Lake, this observatory specialises in solar studies. Advanced instruments capture high-resolution images of the sun's surface and atmosphere.

An aerial view of Udaipur Solar Observatory, Udaipur | Shutterstock

Vainu Bappu Observatory, Tamil Nadu

Known for its powerful optical telescopes, this observatory honours renowned astronomer Vainu Bappu. It plays a vital role in the study of stars, galaxies, and cosmic phenomena.

93-inch telescope building at Vainu Bappu Observatory | Wikimedia Commons

Guru Shikhar Observatory, Rajasthan

Set on Mount Abu’s highest peak, this observatory is ideal for infrared celestial studies. Low atmospheric moisture enables precise observation of cosmic bodies. It provides critical insights into distant stars and galaxies.

Mount Abu Observatory | Wikimedia Commons

Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope, Maharashtra

Among the world’s largest radio telescopes, it observes celestial objects at metrewave radio frequencies. Located near Pune, it contributes to the study of galaxies and the early universe.

Radio telescopes dishes at National Radio Astronomy Observatory - Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope | Shutterstock

High Altitude Gamma Ray Observatory, Ladakh

This observatory features multiple telescopes in a circular arrangement, ideal for gamma-ray research. Positioned in Hanle’s clear, high-altitude skies, it focuses on active galactic nuclei and gamma-ray bursts.

At the High Altitude Gamma Ray Observatory, Hanle | @IndianTechGuide/x

Major Atmospheric Cerenkov Experiment Telescope, Hanle, Ladakh

As one of the world’s largest gamma-ray observatories, this facility probes deep into astrophysical mysteries. It plays an essential role in studying gamma rays and dark matter.

MACE Telescope at Major Atmospheric Cerenkov Experiment Telescope | @NewsIADN/x

National Centre for Radio Astrophysics, Maharashtra

This centre hosts India’s giant radio telescope, enabling detailed research in radio astronomy. It examines phenomena like pulsars, supernovae, and galaxy formations.

At the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics | @NCRA_Outreach/x

Indian Institute of Astrophysics Observatories

With observatories across India, this institute contributes extensively to astronomy and astrophysics. Each site advances research in areas from cosmic evolution to star formation.

At the Indian Institute of Astrophysics Observatories | Wikimedia Commons

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