Medio dia Observatorio Collowara (Andacollo)

Información

Collowara Tourist Observatory, located on El Churqui hill, is a scientific, tourist and educative complex 5 km (3.2 mi) Southeast of Andacollo and 59 km (36 mi) Southeast of La Serena city, at 1,300 m (4,265 ft.) AMSL. This center of astronomic observation, opened on June 25th, 2004, counts with first-class observation instruments to appreciate the celestial space in its entire dimension.

In the aluminum and steel cupola that turns in 360º on both directions is located the main telescope (Smith Cassigrein 14’’ model) that has, among its options, a moon tour and, besides, it allows to take astronomic pictures through a CCD camera. Outdoors and away from the observatory’s structure are three direct observation terraces are displayed in X’s facing West, from where it is possible to appreciate plain sight the Tololo and Gemini professional observatories. Here are located two automatic Smidt-Newtonian telescopes of 10’’ and one mechanic Dobsonian telescope of 16’.

It is worth noting that the infrastructure of this observatory has been adjusted to receive in the best way possible all its visitors. It counts with a projection room, main hall, cafeteria and hygiene services, all with special access for disabled guests. Also, there is a souvenir store with an interesting display of items related to the observatory inside to take a souvenir from this experience, if desired.

The tour begins with an introductory presentation about astronomy ant, afterwards, HD-telescope observation for about two hours, directed by expert guides. To conclude the visit, the guests get a snack.

Meeting/pick-up point: Pick up at the hotel reception.
Duration: 5 hours.
Start/opening time: At 7pm (in Winter) or at 9pm (in Summer).
End/closing time: At 12am (in Winter) or at am (In Summer).
Opening days/period: Thursday to Sunday.
Dress code: We recommend you to bring a jacket and closed shoes.
Others: This activity is subject to weather conditions.